In the vast land of northwest China, the Hexi Corridor, as an important passage of the ancient Silk Road, carries profound historical and cultural significance. Among them, the Hexi Four Prefectures, as an important part of the Hexi Corridor, not only play a pivotal role in the economy, but also occupy an important position in history. However, the fact that the Hexi Four Prefectures are also known as "zhou" is a little-known historical detail. This article will unravel this historical mystery and explore the origin of the name and geographical location of the Hexi Four Prefectures.

I. Origin of the Hexi Four Prefectures

The Hexi Four Prefectures, also known as the Liangzhou Four Prefectures, were four prefectures established during the Western Han Dynasty, namely Jiuquan Prefecture, Zhangye Prefecture, Wuwei Prefecture, and Dunhuang Prefecture. These four prefectures are located in the western part of today's Gansu Province and the eastern part of Xinjiang, serving as an important gateway for ancient China to the West.

II. Why the Hexi Four Prefectures Are Also Called "Zhou"

The reason why the Hexi Four Prefectures are also known as "zhou" stems from the administrative division system of ancient China. In the Han Dynasty, "zhou" was an administrative unit higher than "prefecture". However, due to the Hexi Four Prefectures' location on the border, their contact with the central government was relatively weak. Therefore, in practice, these four prefectures were often treated as a whole, known as "Liangzhou". This is why the Hexi Four Prefectures are also referred to as "zhou".

III. Specific Locations of the Hexi Four Prefectures

1. Jiuquan Prefecture: Located in the area of today's Jiuquan City, Gansu Province, it is the easternmost prefecture of the Hexi Four Prefectures.

2. Zhangye Prefecture: Situated in the area of today's Zhangye City, Gansu Province, it is an important agricultural region within the Hexi Four Prefectures.

3. Wuwei Prefecture: Found in the area of today's Wuwei City, Gansu Province, it is a crucial military fortress among the Hexi Four Prefectures.

4. Dunhuang Prefecture: Located in the region of today's Dunhuang City, Gansu Province, it is the westernmost prefecture of the Hexi Four Prefectures and a significant node on the Silk Road.

Conclusion:

The Hexi Four Prefectures, as a vital gateway in northwest China's ancient history, hold significant importance not only in economy and military but also in leaving profound historical impressions. They are not only a crucial part of the Hexi Corridor but also a shining pearl on the Silk Road. The historical mystery of why the Hexi Four Prefectures are also known as "zhou" is a testament to this era and a crucial clue for us to understand the history and culture of ancient northwest China.

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