The Context

Latest Episodes:

Du Fu: The Wandering Poet Sage Jan 16, 2024

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Today, we’ll introduce arguably the greatest-ever Chinese poet, who lived more than 1,000 years ago and is survived by over 1,400 poems, which in itself is nothing short of a miracle since he spent most of his life wandering across the country.

Torrent of Genius: The Story of Guo Shoujing, the Greatest Hydraulic Engineer Jan 09, 2024

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Today, we’ll delve into the life of a prominent hydraulic engineer during the Yuan Dynasty, who over 700 years ago played a pivotal role in Beijing’s water management and made an enduring global impact in the field of astronomical observations and calendar systems.

Dazu Rock Carvings: The Last Monument of Chinese Rock Art Jan 02, 2024

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Today, we’ll talk about a UNESCO World Heritage Site developed from the 9th through the 13th centuries in Chongqing. Famed for its unique rock carvings, the site has caught the public’s attention again recently due to its unfortunate connection with climate change.

Joint Archaeology: Uncovering the Silk Road’s Lost Civilization Dec 26, 2023

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Today, we’ll talk about how Chinese archaeologists, along with their Central Asian counterparts, are exploring the Silk Road to unlock some of the greatest mysteries of ancient migrations and kingdoms.

Flying Tigers Veterans: Heights of Friendship Dec 19, 2023

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Today, we delve into the poignant visit to China by WWII veterans and relatives of the renowned Flying Tigers. This gathering serves as a heartfelt commemoration of their historical achievements, prompting reflection on the future trajectory of China-US relations.

Chinese Students in the US: an Unaccomplished Mission Dec 12, 2023

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Today, we will explore the commencement of the first group of Chinese students who embarked on their studies in the United States about 150 years ago. Remarkably, many among them emerged as pivotal figures in the pursuit of national liberation and the nation’s journey toward modernity.

Pu’er Tea Forests: Into the Deep Green Dec 05, 2023

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Today, we’ll talk about the Pu’er tea forests of Jingmai Mountain in Yunnan Province that have now become the latest UNESCO heritage site in China. Local people are excited but also somewhat anxious about whether the new designation will disrupt the lifestyle they have enjoyed for a thousand years.

Grand Canal: Changing the Course of History Nov 28, 2023

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In our last podcast, we talked about China’s 1400-year-old inland waterway called the Grand Canal. Today, we’re going to further explore how changes in the Grand Canal’s course over the centuries also changed the course of history.

Dragon Boats on Grand Canal: The Rule of Water Nov 21, 2023

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In the first installment of what will be a two-part feature, we’re going to discuss how an inland waterway was the key to toppling one strong dynasty while underpinning the prosperity of the next in ancient China.

Tigers: Lost in the Wild, Lasting in Culture Nov 14, 2023

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Today, we will talk about the profound cultural significance that tigers hold in China, where for centuries the mighty beasts have been revered as powerful symbols of strength and protection.

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