Research on Millet Recorded in the Han Dynasty Bamboo Slips of the Northwest China
Millet was one of the main food crops in the northern region during the Han Dynasty.During the reign of Emperor Wu of the Western Han Dynasty,four commanderies were established in Hexi Corridor,and a large number of civilians were dis-patched to the frontier to cultivate land and garrison.Therefore,the millet recorded in the Han Dynasty bamboo slips from the Northwest China was closely related to the lives of officials and soldiers.Millet not only provided food for officials,soldiers,their families,and passing officials,but also served as forage for some livestock.Additionally,it was one of the raw materials for brew-ing liquor and making medicine.At the same time,millet also provided convenience for officials and soldiers in terms of economy and sacrificial rites.
bamboo slips of the Han Dynasty in the Northwest Chinamilletvalue