Latest Stories on Roots of China: Culture, Heritage, and Legacy

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If you're curious about what makes Wuyi (五邑) such a fascinating region, look no further than its breathtaking Wuyi landscape. Nestled in the western Pearl River Delta of Guangdong Province,…

BySteven 0Comments

11

5 days ago

History and Culture

The Wuyi Diaspora: A Tale of Clans, Brotherhoods, and Survival

In the 19th and early 20th centuries, the Wuyi diaspora emerged as one of history’s most remarkable migration stories. Originating from the rural counties of the Wuyi region—such as…

BySteven 0Comments

09

Apr 2025

History and Culture

The Coolie Trade and Early Migration Patterns (1840–1874)

The mid-19th century marked a dark yet transformative period in Chinese migration history, dominated by the global coolie trade (苦力贸易). Tens of thousands of laborers, predominantly from Guangdong’s Taishan, Xinhui,…

BySteven 0Comments

06

Apr 2025

History and Culture

Ghosts of Gold Mountain: Grave-Sweeping Rituals and the Resilience of Montana’s Chinese Railroad Workers

Between 1865 and 1890, over 1,200 Chinese laborers worked on Montana’s railroads, including the Northern Pacific Railway. Most were young men from Taishan and Kaiping in Guangdong’s Wuyi region, recruited…

BySteven 0Comments

02

Apr 2025

Cities of Wuyi

Legacy of Wuyi: The Untold Story of How a Region Ended the Qing Dynasty

The Hidden Epicenter of Revolution At the southern edge of China, where fertile plains meet the restless waves of the South China Sea, lies Wuyi (五邑)—a region that defied its…

BySteven 0Comments

25

Mar 2025

Emigration Stories

What Happened to the Chinese in Cuba? The Untold Story of Havana’s Lost Chinatown

In the mid-1800s, a young man from Taishan, Guangdong, stood on the deck of a ship bound for Havana, Cuba. He wasn’t alone—thousands of others from his hometown had made…

BySteven 0Comments

23

Mar 2025

History and Culture

Why Guangdong’s Marriage Traditions Start with Candy in Elevators (And a 3-Day Rule)

I was in the elevator this morning, rushing to grab my coffee before work, when I noticed something unusual—a small bag of candies tied with a red ribbon and a…

BySteven 0Comments

21

Mar 2025

History and Culture

The Abacus: How a 1,000-Year-Old Chinese Tool Helped Build Atomic Bombs

It all started with a dusty old suitcase tucked away in the corner of my aunt’s attic. She had recently returned from a trip to North America, bringing back souvenirs,…

BySteven 0Comments

20

Mar 2025

History and Culture

Family Legacy: Chinese Genealogy and Ancestral Villages

Imagine stepping into an ancestral hall (宗祠, zōngcí)—its wooden beams creak under the weight of centuries, yet every inch tells a story. The air carries the faint scent of incense,…

BySteven 0Comments

16

Mar 2025

Travel Guides

Kaiping Tangkou: Peter Stuckey, Blue Paintings, and the Village That Refuses to Fade

So there I was, sitting in the Four Seasons Restaurant in Kaiping Tangkou (yes, that Four Seasons), when I bumped into Peter Stuckey. Now, Peter’s no ordinary retiree—he’s not out…

BySteven 0Comments

14

Mar 2025

History and Culture

I Am Sun Yet-Sen Founder of Modern China: The Return to China and the Seeds of Revolution Part 3

In 1883, I was abruptly withdrawn from my studies at Iolani College in Hawaii and sent back to my ancestral home in Cuiheng Village. My brother, Sun Mei, made this…

BySteven 0Comments

12

Mar 2025

History and Culture

I Am Sun Yet-Sen Founder of Modern China: Awaking the Rebel Part 2

When I was born on November 12, 1866, the Qing Dynasty had just extinguished the last embers of the Taiping Rebellion . The Taiping Rebellion (1850–1864) was one of the…

BySteven 0Comments

11

Mar 2025

History and Culture

I Am Sun Yat-Sen The Father of Modern China: Roots of Struggle – Part 1

In my lifetime, I’ve had over thirty names. In the United States, people called me Sun Yat-sen; in Japan, most referred to me as Sun Wen. After the Xinhai Revolution,…

BySteven 0Comments

05

Mar 2025

History and Culture

Qingming: A Journey Through Time and Memory

For overseas Chinese, Qingming is not merely a date on the calendar—it is a portal to the past, a sacred moment when the veil between worlds thins, and we are…

BySteven 0Comments

02

Mar 2025

Wuyi Region Overview

Siyi Greater Bay Area Development: A Story of Economic Transformation and Regional Integration

The Siyi region—comprising Taishan, Kaiping, Enping, and Xinhui—has long been a cradle of resilience, innovation, and cultural richness. Known as the "侨乡" (ancestral hometown) for millions of overseas Chinese, this…

BySteven 0Comments

27

Feb 2025

History and Culture

The Siyi Dialect: A Heartbeat of Identity Calling Across Generations

Language is more than words—it is the soul of a culture, a living thread that stitches together generations, histories, and identities. For third- and fourth-generation overseas Chinese from the Siyi…

BySteven 0Comments

25

Feb 2025

Emigration Stories

1890 Breakthrough: How Wuyi Migrants’ Revolutionary Resilience Defied Exploitation and Shaped History

In the 19th century, Wuyi migrants from Guangdong’s Siyi region set sail for distant shores, driven by dreams of economic prosperity and the hope of securing better futures for their…

BySteven 0Comments

07

Feb 2025

Cities of Wuyi Taishan

Essential Insights into Taishan Villages: From 221 BCE to Modern Heritage

Taishan’s villages are a living testament to history, migration, and cultural resilience. From the iconic diaolou (watchtowers) built by overseas Chinese to the clan-based settlements that shaped social life, these…

BySteven 0Comments

06

Feb 2025

Cities of Wuyi Taishan

5 Generations of Legacy: How the Toysanese People from China Built a Global Heritage

For over two centuries, the Taishanese people from China have built a global legacy through migration, resilience, and cultural preservation. From shaping the vibrant communities of San Francisco and Sydney…

BySteven 0Comments

03

Feb 2025

Emigration Stories

How the End of Slavery Impacted Chinese Labor Migration

The abolition of slavery in the mid-19th century reshaped global labor markets, driving a surge in Chinese labor migration to replace enslaved workers in plantations, railroads, and mines. Facing poverty,…

BySteven 0Comments

01

Feb 2025

Emigration Stories History and Culture Wuyi Region Overview

200 Years of Resilience: The Sze Yup Diaspora’s Inspiring Journey

Discover the inspiring journey of the Sze Yup diaspora, a 200-year saga of resilience, heritage, and triumph. From the historic Diaolou watchtowers of Guangdong’s Sze Yup region to the goldfields…

BySteven 0Comments

31

Jan 2025

Emigration Stories

The 1850s Gold Rush: How Siyi Gold Miners Built a Town in Australia

The story of the Siyi gold miners is one of resilience, ingenuity, and an enduring cultural legacy. In the mid-19th century, migrants from Taishan, Kaiping, Xinhui, and Enping left Guangdong,…

BySteven 0Comments

24

Jan 2025

Emigration Stories Travel Guides

The Dazzling Legacy of Chinese Jamaican Heritage Since 1854

LISTEN TO THE ARTICLE ON THE GO - PRESS PLAY NOW “Did you know Jamaica is home to one of the Caribbean’s oldest Chinese communities?” Picture the scent of jerk…

BySteven 0Comments

15

Jan 2025

Emigration Stories Historical Landmark Taishan Travel Guides

5 Floors, Countless Stories: Exploring the Taishan Overseas Chinese Culture Museum

Step into the Taishan Overseas Chinese Culture Museum, and you’ll find more than just artifacts—you’ll find pieces of your story. From the tearful goodbyes at Guanghai Port to the inspiring…

BySteven 0Comments

01

Jan 2025

Cities of Wuyi Emigration Stories Wuyi Region Overview

Roots of China: 42 Inspiring Stories from 2024

As 2024 comes to a close, I find myself reflecting on the journey we’ve shared through Roots of China. What began as a dream years ago has blossomed into a…

BySteven 0Comments

29

Dec 2024

Chinese Surnames History and Culture

Chinese Surnames: Weaving Threads of Ancestry and Identity

What’s in a name? For many of us, a surname isn’t just a label—it’s a doorway to the past, a story waiting to be uncovered.

BySteven 0Comments

23

Dec 2024

History and Culture

Elegance and Tradition: Showcasing Chinese New Year Clothes

Chinese New Year is more than just a time for family and feasts—it’s a celebration of culture, history, and the traditions passed down through generations. One of the most striking…

BySteven 0Comments

21

Dec 2024

Artisans and Crafts History and Culture

10 Beloved Lunar New Year Crafts That Keep Traditions Alive

Lunar New Year crafts like lanterns, red envelopes, and paper cuttings are more than festive decorations—they are timeless traditions that connect generations, reflect regional diversity, and tell stories of Chinese…

BySteven 0Comments

18

Dec 2024

History and Culture

Chinese New Year Traditions: A Complete Guide to Celebrations, Customs, and Modern Adaptations

Discover the rich tapestry of Chinese New Year traditions in this comprehensive guide. From the festival’s ancient origins and symbolic rituals to vibrant decorations, traditional foods, and modern adaptations, explore…

BySteven 0Comments

17

Dec 2024

Emigration Stories

THE CIRCLE OF LIFE – A GRANDSON OF EMIGRANTS RETURNS TO FIND HIS ROOTS AFTER 120 YEARS

After over a century of migration, spanning continents and generations, Ian Tham embarks on a heartfelt journey to rediscover his ancestral roots in China. From Kaiping to Enping, long-lost villages…

ByGuest Author 0Comments

13

Dec 2024

Chinese Surnames

The Wong Surname: Tracing Its Noble Origins and Global Legacy

The **Wong surname** is one of the most widely recognized and historically significant names in Chinese culture. With origins rooted in ancient dynasties, the name reflects both nobility and prosperity.…

BySteven 0Comments

09

Dec 2024

Cities of Wuyi Emigration Stories Historical Landmark Taishan

Sunning Railway: Uniting Taishan’s Overseas Chinese and Transforming a Nation

The Sunning Railway (新宁铁路), built in the early 20th century by Taishan’s overseas Chinese community, stands as a remarkable testament to unity and ambition. Spanning 138 kilometers, this railway connected…

BySteven 0Comments

08

Dec 2024

Cities of Wuyi Historical Landmark Taishan

Taishan Haikou Port Museum: Meet China’s Migrant Past

Nestled at the confluence of the Datong (大同) and Duanfen (端芬) Rivers, the Haikou Port Museum in Haikou Bu (海口埠) stands as a living record of China’s overseas migration story.…

BySteven 0Comments

05

Dec 2024

Chinese Surnames

From Tu Shan to the World: The Twu Surname Legacy

From Tu Shan to the World: The Twu Surname’s Legacy” explores the rich heritage, cultural impact, and global journey of the Twu (涂) surname. From its legendary connection to Emperor…

BySteven 0Comments

05

Dec 2024

Cities of Wuyi Historical Landmark Kaiping

Chikan Town: The Untold Story

Discover how Chikan Town, with its historic qilou and diaolou structures, reflects the lasting impact of migration on Chinese culture. Learn about the town’s origins, shaped by the Opium Wars,…

BySteven 0Comments

02

Dec 2024

History and Culture

Ancestor Worship in Diaspora Communities

Join the journey of Chinese diaspora communities as they adapt ancestor worship for modern life, blending digital innovations with cherished traditions.

BySteven 0Comments

30

Nov 2024

History and Culture

Modern Ancestor Worship Practices

Explore the evolving landscape of modern ancestor worship practices in China. From virtual memorial platforms to eco-friendly alternatives, discover how traditions are adapting to urbanization, technological advancements, and generational shifts.…

BySteven 0Comments

30

Nov 2024

Chinese Surnames Ueng (翁)

Digital Tools for Chinese Genealogy: Ueng Family History

Discover the rich history and traditions of the Ueng surname, from ancestral rituals and migration stories to modern tools like digital genealogy platforms. Learn how Ueng families worldwide preserve their…

BySteven 0Comments

29

Nov 2024

Chinese Surnames Ueng (翁)

The Ueng Surname: Tracing Family History and Legacy

The Ueng surname, with its roots in the Chinese character 黃 (Huang), has a long and diverse history, evolving through various dialects and regions. This article explores the linguistic journey…

BySteven 0Comments

28

Nov 2024

Chinese Surnames Ueng (翁)

The Ueng (翁) Surname: Exploring a Rich Legacy of History and Culture

The Ueng (翁) surname carries a rich legacy rooted in Chinese history, symbolizing wisdom, longevity, and resilience. Derived from the romanization of *Wēng*, the surname reflects the cultural heritage of…

BySteven 0Comments

25

Nov 2024

Artisans and Crafts Cities of Wuyi Enping History and Culture Kaiping Taishan Xinhui

Qílóu Architecture in Wuyi: Cultural Fusion and Resilience

Discover Qílóu Architecture in Wuyi—a stunning mix of Chinese, Southeast Asian, and European styles. These historic arcade buildings reflect cultural fusion, resilience, and the legacy of the Chinese diaspora

BySteven 0Comments

18

Nov 2024

Artisans and Crafts Cities of Wuyi Emigration Stories Enping Heshan History and Culture Jiangmen Kaiping Taishan Xinhui

Roots of Legacy: Wuyi Impact & Future Generations

rom the bustling streets of California during the Gold Rush to the ports of Southeast Asia, Wuyi emigrants left their mark on the world. Their journeys not only transformed their…

BySteven 0Comments

16

Nov 2024

Emigration Stories History and Culture Kaiping Travel Guides Wuyi Region Overview

Kaiping Diaolou: China’s UNESCO Heritage Towers

Discover the rich stories behind Kaiping’s diaolou towers in our latest podcast! These unique, fortified towers are a blend of Chinese and Western design, built for protection and family honor.…

BySteven 0Comments

14

Nov 2024

Emigration Stories Historical Landmark History and Culture

Roots of Legacy: Honoring the Enduring Heritage of Wuyi Emigrants

Discover the profound stories of the Wuyi (五邑) emigrants whose resilience and contributions have shaped both their adopted communities and their homeland. From the heartfelt Qiaopi letters (侨批) that connected…

BySteven 0Comments

13

Nov 2024

Emigration Stories Historical Landmark History and Culture

Wuyi Migration Journey: The Roots of Legacy in the Siyi Region

Discover the rich migration history of China’s Wuyi region, where generations of families from Kaiping, Xinhui, Enping, Heshan, and Taishan embarked on journeys to Southeast Asia, North America, and beyond.…

BySteven 0Comments

12

Nov 2024

Emigration Stories Historical Landmark History and Culture Taishan Travel Guides

Exploring Taishan: The First Home of Overseas Chinese

Discover the rich history and vibrant culture of Taishan (台山), known as the “First Home of Overseas Chinese” in Guangdong, China. From historic Diaolou towers to bustling festivals and authentic…

BySteven 0Comments

11

Nov 2024

Emigration Stories Enping Historical Landmark History and Culture Kaiping Taishan Travel Guides Xinhui

Siyi to Wuyi: A Journey of Transformation and Heritage

Originally comprising only four counties—Kaiping, Xinhui, Taishan, and Enping—the region now known as Wuyi expanded in 1983 with the addition of Heshan, blending historical roots with industrial growth. Join us…

BySteven 0Comments

09

Nov 2024

Emigration Stories Historical Landmark History and Culture Travel Guides Xinhui

Xinhui’s (新会) Contributions to Chinese Culture and History

Discover Xinhui (新会), the cultural gem of Guangdong’s Siyi region, famous for its rich heritage, the centuries-old chenpi (陈皮) industry, and its influence on overseas Chinese communities worldwide. Explore how…

BySteven 0Comments

08

Nov 2024

Emigration Stories Enping Historical Landmark History and Culture Travel Guides

Enping: A Living Harmony of Tradition and Modern Life

Enping, a city woven with history and modern innovation, bridges generations through its rich traditions and forward-thinking industries. From its distinctive hot springs and vibrant local arts to its global…

BySteven 0Comments

01

Nov 2024

Historical Landmark History and Culture Jiangmen Travel Guides

Jiangmen City: The Gateway to the Wuyi Region

Step into Jiangmen City, where tradition meets progress in the heart of the Wuyi Region. Known as the ‘Capital of Overseas Chinese,’ Jiangmen offers visitors a unique blend of cultural…

BySteven 0Comments

31

Mar 2025

Cities of Wuyi

The Hidden Role of Women in Taishan’s Heritage: From Clan Halls to Modern Preservation

When exploring women in Taishan history , we often find stories overshadowed by the grand narratives of migration, architecture, and male-dominated achievements. Yet, behind every towering diaolou (watchtower) and bustling…

BySteven 0Comments

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