Core Viewpoint - The article presents a comprehensive overview of Shanghai's prehistoric culture, tracing its development over 6000 years through various archaeological cultures, highlighting the significance of these findings in understanding the city's historical and cultural evolution [1][7][26]. Group 1: Historical Development - Shanghai's prehistoric culture began over 6000 years ago, encompassing the Majiabang, Songze, Liangzhu, Guangfulin, and Maqiao cultures, which developed in parallel with other regions in the Yangtze River Delta [7][12]. - The earliest administrative structure in the Shanghai area can be traced back to the establishment of Huating County during the Tang Dynasty in 751 AD, evolving through various administrative changes until the formation of Shanghai as a special municipality in 1927 [2][12]. - The concept of "the earliest Shanghai" is linked to the broader idea of "the earliest China," emphasizing the interconnectedness of different archaeological cultures within the region [2][3]. Group 2: Archaeological Findings - Approximately 40 archaeological sites have been identified in Shanghai, primarily located in the western part of the city, revealing significant artifacts such as pottery, stone tools, and burial sites that provide insights into the cultural and social characteristics of early inhabitants [3][5]. - The Songze culture, identified between 5800 and 5300 years ago, is characterized by distinctive pottery and jade artifacts, reflecting a shared cultural heritage across the lower Yangtze region [9][14]. - The Guangfulin site, discovered in the 1960s and extensively excavated in the late 1990s, revealed unique artifacts that differ from other Neolithic cultures, indicating a complex cultural landscape in prehistoric Shanghai [11][12]. Group 3: Cultural Achievements - The prehistoric inhabitants of Shanghai demonstrated significant achievements in agriculture, particularly rice cultivation, which became a foundational aspect of their subsistence strategy [22][24]. - Innovations such as the triangular stone plow and the steamer pot reflect the early technological advancements and agricultural practices that shaped the region's development [29][30]. - The production of exquisite jade artifacts and pottery during the Liangzhu culture showcases the high level of craftsmanship and aesthetic sensibility among the prehistoric people of Shanghai [31][32]. Group 4: Ecological Context - The ecological environment of prehistoric Shanghai was diverse, featuring wetlands, grasslands, and various animal species, which played a crucial role in the subsistence strategies of early inhabitants [21][25]. - Analysis of archaeological remains indicates that the diet of early Shanghai residents included rice, wild game, and domesticated animals, highlighting their adaptability to the local environment [22][24]. - The coexistence of large mammals such as elephants and tigers with early humans illustrates the rich biodiversity of the region during prehistoric times [19][21].