In Search of National Ancestors

Heritage, Identity and Placemaking in China

Shu-Li Wang (Institute of Ethnology, Academia Sinica)

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English

Cambridge University Press
08 May 2025

Myth & legend told as fiction; Museums & museology; History; Archaeology; Religion & beliefs

Series: Elements in Critical Heritage Studies

Summary
Details

This Element examines how international heritage discourses are internalized and reshaped in China, using the Yellow Emperor cults as a lens to explore broader themes of intangible heritage, religious resurgence, and identity construction. The central argument is that cultural heritage serves as a powerful tool for shaping new religious expressions and enabling Chinese localities to assert their uniqueness while redefining historical narratives. Through case studies of several localities across China, this research illustrates how these regions engage in heritage competition by branding themselves with Yellow Emperor culture to shape their identities. This study argues that the cult of the Yellow Emperor-a legendary figure-is empowered by nationalism, a local search for tradition and religious revivals, and is further amplified by international discourses that reinforce national identity through heritage-making. Together, these forces drive the resurgence of ancestral cults and contribute to cultural identity formation in contemporary China.

By: Shu-Li Wang (Institute of Ethnology Academia Sinica)
Imprint: Cambridge University Press
Country of Publication: United Kingdom
ISBN: 9781009582148
ISBN 10: 1009582143
Series: Elements in Critical Heritage Studies
Pages: 80
Publication Date: 08 May 2025
Audience: General/trade , ELT Advanced
Format: Paperback
Publisher's Status: Active