A Short History of Beijing

A guide to the history of China’s capital, from before its rise to prominence as the seat of empires to the 2022 Winter Olympics.

Before China’s capital became a sprawling megacity and international center of business and culture, its fortunes fluctuated under a dozen dynasties. It has been a capital for several states, including those headed by Mongolian chiefs and the glorious Ming emperors, whose tombs can still be found on its outskirts. And before all that, it was a campsite for primi...