打捞被湮没的严州：海外游子杨斌40年后的回首

Core Viewpoint - The publication of "South of the Yangtze: The Overlooked Yanzhou Prefecture" by historian Yang Bin highlights the historical changes and cultural heritage of Yanzhou, emphasizing the importance of personal and collective memory in understanding local history [3][4][5]. Summary by Relevant Sections Historical Context - The book focuses on the historical transformation of Yanzhou, particularly the impact of the Xin'an River Reservoir construction and administrative adjustments that led to the physical and cultural obliteration of the region [3][4][5][6]. - Significant events include the completion of the Xin'an River Hydropower Station in 1959, which submerged parts of Yanzhou, displacing around 300,000 residents, and the 1969 Fuchun River Reservoir, which displaced over 50,000 people [5][6]. Cultural Significance - Yang Bin emphasizes the cultural symbols of Yanzhou, particularly figures like Yan Ziling and Fan Zhongyan, who represent high moral standards and cultural heritage [7][8]. - The book also highlights the stories of ordinary individuals, such as a widow from the Qing Dynasty, to illustrate the human aspect of history and the importance of documenting diverse narratives [8][9]. Geographical Importance - Yanzhou's unique geographical position between Huizhou and Hangzhou has made it a crucial cultural and material transit hub since the Southern Song Dynasty, facilitating trade and cultural exchange [9][10]. Research Challenges - The author faced significant challenges due to the scarcity of historical documents, particularly after the Taiping Rebellion and the impact of reservoir construction, which destroyed many local records [11]. - Yang Bin utilized oral histories and field research to enrich the narrative, combining anthropological and micro-historical perspectives [11]. Reader Engagement - The book aims to inspire readers to recognize the value of local history and personal narratives, encouraging them to document their own family and community histories [12][13]. - Yang Bin advocates for exploring Yanzhou's historical sites to foster a deeper understanding of its cultural evolution [13].