Research On Countermeasures Against Floods In Gaobao Area In Qing Dynasty

Gaobao area in the Qing Dynasty is located on the shore of the Inner canal.From the Yellow River southward to the Huai River,Hongze Lake gradually formed.From the end of Ming Dynasty to the whole Qing Dynasty,Hongze Lake frequently released its flood to gaobao area,which resulted in frequent floods.In the Qing Dynasty,floods occurred in Gaoyou prefecture in 92 years with an average of 2.9 years.Flood occurred in Baoying county in 78 years,with an average of once every 3.4 years.To this end,the authorities have taken the lead in repairing the dikes and dredging the channels.However,the frequent opening and releasing of the returning dike greatly weaken the flood control function of the dike.And limited by national strength,since the period of Jiaqing,the authorities gradually stopped large-scale river dredging projects.With the appearance of a large number of polders,the siltation of river course in gaobao area has not been solved.Therefore,the government-led flood control and water conservancy projects have failed to achieve significant results.Although the gaobao area could not be protected from floods,since he period of Qianlong,the relief procedures of prospecting and relief at the same time were carried out,which greatly improved the relief efficiency of the government.When the flood occurred,the government actively raised relief materials,providing food rations,helping the victims to resume production and avoiding tax.In addition,the salt government,the viceroy and the weaving officials also took an active part in the relief process.Official relief measures have been effective in reducing the destructive effects of floods.The squire from Gao bao is also an important force in dealing with floods.They not only take an active part in the construction of flood control and water conservancy projects,but also help the victims through flood relief,donation for relief,official relief and tax exemption.In some disaster years,the squire and salt merchants in Yangzhou made collective donations to relieve the disaster victims,which effectively alleviated the losses caused by disasters.Due to timely and comprehensive relief,although floods occurred frequently,Gaobao area in the Qing Dynasty was still full of folk customs,flourishing culture and education,and social stability.