Distribution of Merchants
In the Ming and Qing dynasties, the Grand Canal's prosperity boosted trade along its route. Huizhou merchants, the most prominent group, came to dominate commercial activity.
Hui Merchants Network
Hui Merchants
Originating from Anhui, Hui merchants rose in the mid-Ming dynasty and peaked in the Qing dynasty. Their commercial network spanned the entire country, with Grand Canal cities as key hubs.
Proportion of Goods
The pie chart reveals that salt and tea dominated Huizhou merchants' trade, reflecting their significant economic value in Grand Canal commerce during the Ming and Qing dynasties.
Data Sources: Research on Huizhou Merchants and Their Social Activities in the Canal Area of Ming and Qing Dynasties; Activities of Regional Merchant Groups Along the Grand Canal During the Ming and Qing Dynasties; Research on the Spatial Characteristics of Merchant Guild Halls from the Cultural Perspective of Beijing-Hangzhou Grand Canal——Take Liaocheng as an example
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