Core Viewpoint - The book "South of the Yangtze: The Forgotten Yanzhou Prefecture" by Yang Bin explores the historical significance and cultural identity of Yanzhou, a region that has been largely overlooked due to geographical changes and historical amnesia [2][3][4]. Historical Context - Yang Bin's academic focus shifted from global perspectives on Yunnan and maritime history to local history of Yanzhou after returning to his hometown and hearing family stories [4][5]. - The historical narrative of Yanzhou spans over two thousand years, highlighting its evolution from a significant political and cultural center during the Southern Song Dynasty to its decline in later periods [5][7]. Geographical Changes - The construction of the Xin'an River Hydropower Station in 1959 and the Fuchun River Dam in 1969 led to the submergence of ancient towns and significant population displacement, resulting in a loss of cultural and historical continuity [9][10][15]. - The administrative dissolution of Yanzhou in 1958 further contributed to the region's identity crisis, as many young people today are unaware of its historical significance [10][15]. Cultural Significance - The book emphasizes the unique cultural characteristics of Yanzhou, which lies on the periphery of the traditional Jiangnan region, influenced by both Huizhou and Hangzhou cultures [7][8]. - The Southern Song period is identified as a peak time for Yanzhou, where it served as a political and economic hub, providing resources to the capital [8][9]. Memory and Identity - The dual themes of geographical submersion and memory loss are central to the narrative, illustrating how physical changes to the landscape have led to a collective forgetting of Yanzhou's history [10][11]. - Yang Bin aims to bridge the gap between lost memories and historical records, advocating for the importance of remembering and preserving local histories [10][12]. Gender Perspectives - The book also highlights the stories of women in Yanzhou's history, such as Wang Wushi and Yang Taihou, who have been historically overlooked, showcasing their resilience and contributions [13][14]. - Yang Bin's approach combines historical context with gender analysis, aiming to present a more nuanced understanding of women's roles in the region's history [14]. Future Research Directions - Following the completion of this book, Yang Bin plans to shift his research focus to the history of Macau, exploring cultural interactions during the Qing Dynasty [16][17].