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LEI Wenjing, WU Xianzhu*, WEN Jiawen, CAO Yani, WU Siyu
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DOI:10.17265/2159-550X/2026.04.001
Chongqing Normal University, Chongqing, China
In the mid-13th century, the Mongol Empire rapidly rose to power, conquering vast territories stretching from East Asia in the east to Eastern Europe in the west. Its powerful military conquered over 40 countries across Eurasia. However, when the Mongol army attacked the cities of Chongqing and Diaoyucheng in southwestern China, they laid siege to them for a prolonged period, but were unable to capture them. Even the fourth Mongol emperor, Mongke, was killed at Diaoyucheng, causing the Mongol army to stall on the European front and halting its conquests in Eurasia. World historians have dubbed Diaoyucheng in Chongqing “the place where God broke his whip”. From 1243 to 1279, Chongqing held out for 35 years, and Diaoyucheng for 36 years, respectively, against the Mongol army. How did Chongqing and Diaoyucheng hold out despite such long sieges? Recent archaeological discoveries at these two sites have provided scientific evidence: The remains of various small tropical and subtropical mammals have been unearthed at Chongqing and Diaoyucheng. These regionally unique tropical and subtropical animals reflect the subtropical humid climate of the region at the time. This climatic environment provided abundant rainfall and lush vegetation, providing ample water for daily life within the city. Subsistence farming, gathering, livestock breeding, and hunting provided the city with necessities. Despite decades of siege, the city maintained a water and food supply, which effectively supported its defenses. Both Chongqing and Diaoyu Fortress have been found to contain the small subtropical mammal Suncus etruscus and the species Anourosorex squamipes, native to Southeast Asia and Southwestern China. Furthermore, the tropical chiropteran Rhinolophus stheno and the tropical mollusc Pseudodon chaperi have been found in Chongqing. The discovery of these unique tropical and subtropical animals provides crucial scientific evidence for the long-term survival of Chongqing and Diaoyu Fortresses, which benefited from their climatic environment.
13th century, Chongqing area, climate characteristics, Mongol-Song War, world situation
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