Li, Z;
Fontana, G;
Bevan, A;
Li, R;
(2025)
Frontier walls, labour energetics and Qin imperial collapse.
Journal of Archaeological Science
, 181
, Article 106313. 10.1016/j.jas.2025.106313.
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Abstract
The imperial northern frontiers of China during the Qin and Han Dynasties were protected by large-scale defensive walls. This paper considers the colossal investment of direct labour and logistics behind these constructions in the last few centuries BCE. Drawing upon new fieldwork, 3D recordings and an ethnohistorical meta-analysis, we develop an architectural energetic model for different construction methods and workforce sustenance. Our estimates highlight the significant logistical challenges, suggesting that the Qin Empire's mass conscription, forced relocations, and nationwide resource mobilisation potentially contributed to its collapse by 210 BCE.
| Type: | Article |
|---|---|
| Title: | Frontier walls, labour energetics and Qin imperial collapse |
| DOI: | 10.1016/j.jas.2025.106313 |
| Publisher version: | https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jas.2025.106313 |
| Language: | English |
| Additional information: | This version is the author accepted manuscript. For information on re-use, please refer to the publisher’s terms and conditions. |
| Keywords: | Labour costs; energetic model; Great Wall of China |
| UCL classification: | UCL UCL > Provost and Vice Provost Offices > UCL SLASH UCL > Provost and Vice Provost Offices > UCL SLASH > Faculty of S&HS UCL > Provost and Vice Provost Offices > UCL SLASH > Faculty of S&HS > Institute of Archaeology UCL > Provost and Vice Provost Offices > UCL SLASH > Faculty of S&HS > Institute of Archaeology > Institute of Archaeology Gordon Square |
| URI: | https://discovery.ucl.ac.uk/id/eprint/10216532 |
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