Isolation

China is an ancient civilization (perhaps pre-dating Mesopotamia and Egypt) that has remained in virtual isolation for much of its history. This isolation lasted thousands of years due to three major features of China's physical geography:

1. The Tibetan Plateau

2. The Gobi Desert

3. The Pacific Ocean

The Tibetan Plateau exists in southwest China and contains some of the highest elevations on earth. This is not an easy barrier to cross. The Gobi desert stretches from western China up into Mongolia and toward the Pacific Ocean. Any desert is an ominous barrier. The Pacific Ocean is the largest body of water on earth and is extremely difficult to cross without modern navigation instruments.

Chinese civilization is about 4000 years old and China has never been overrun or taken over by an outside force. Historically, no army could ever make the journey to China. China is the oldest national heritage existing on earth today and we are extremely fortunate to have them around. What a tremendous opportunity to study this culture that has survived 4000 years. Mesopotamia was taken over time and time again. Egypt and the Indus Civilization too. But China is still there. Oh, they have had numerous dynasties ruling China and plenty of wars, but it has all been from within. Perhaps we can learn something from this ancient culture.

Let's first take a look at the climate of China.