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].

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].

Core Perspective - The article discusses the unique local history of the Yanzhou Prefecture, as presented in the book "South of Jiangnan: The Overlooked Yanzhou Prefecture" by Yang Bin, a professor at City University of Hong Kong, highlighting the author's personal connection and scholarly approach to the region's history [1][8]. Summary by Sections Historical Context - Yanzhou Prefecture, located in southwestern Zhejiang, has a complex administrative history, having undergone several changes in governance from the Tang Dynasty to the Republic of China, ultimately being abolished [4]. - The region's geographical and cultural positioning has led to its historical comparison with Hangzhou Prefecture, despite its distinct characteristics and lack of coastal access [4][6]. Cultural Significance - The book emphasizes the cultural and historical importance of local landmarks, such as the Qililang River, which has served as a spiritual source for scholars over two millennia and facilitated cross-cultural interactions [4][6]. - The tradition of bridge-building in Jiande reflects local autonomy and social cohesion, showcasing the community's efforts to connect and support one another [5]. Methodological Approach - The writing process of the book evolved organically, focusing on various themes that reveal a micro, regional, national, and transnational perspective on local history [6]. - The author argues for a new paradigm in local history writing, emphasizing the importance of interactions and exchanges between regions and cultures, rather than viewing them in isolation [7]. Environmental Influence - The book discusses how natural environments, particularly geography and climate, shape social development and historical trajectories, illustrating the concept of "path dependence" [6]. - External influences, including those from neighboring regions and countries, have historically disrupted local norms, providing both challenges and opportunities for development [6].