Peking, more commonly known today as Beijing, refers to the capital of the People's Republic of China and stands as the nation's second-largest Chinese city. It is situated in the Hebei province in northeastern China.
Understanding Peking: The Capital City
The term "Peking" is an older romanization of the city's name, which has since been officially standardized to "Beijing" using the Pinyin system. Despite the name change, "Peking" is still recognized and used in various historical and cultural contexts, such as "Peking Opera" or "Peking Duck."
According to the provided definitions, Peking (Beijing) holds several significant attributes:
- National Capital: It serves as the official capital of the People's Republic of China, making it the political and cultural heart of the nation.
- Geographic Location: The city is located in the northeastern part of China, specifically within the Hebei province.
- Urban Scale: It is recognized as the second-largest Chinese city, highlighting its immense size and population.
Key Characteristics of Peking (Beijing)
To better understand its meaning, here are the key characteristics outlined in its definition:
- Capital City: Functions as the primary seat of government for the People's Republic of China.
- Location: Situated strategically in northeastern China, within the Hebei province.
- Size: Ranks as the 2nd largest city in China by population and urban area.
- Historical Significance: While officially known as Beijing today, "Peking" denotes its historical identity.
Synonyms and Naming Conventions
The evolution of the city's name reflects changes in romanization systems and political landscapes. The reference provides several synonyms:
| Term | Description |
|---|---|
| Peking | Older, traditional romanization |
| Beijing | Current official Pinyin romanization, widely used today |
| Peiping | Historical alternative name, particularly during periods when it was not the capital |
| Capital of Red China | A political descriptor, especially from mid-20th century perspectives |
The name Beijing (beɪˈdʒɪŋ) literally translates to "Northern Capital," while "Nanjing" means "Southern Capital." The shift from "Peking" to "Beijing" in international usage largely occurred after the adoption of the Pinyin romanization system in the late 1970s.
Historical Context and Usage
The continued recognition of "Peking" underscores its historical presence in global discourse. While "Beijing" is now the standard, "Peking" persists in:
- Historical Documents: Old maps, books, and records frequently use "Peking."
- Cultural References: Many iconic cultural elements retain the "Peking" moniker, such as "Peking Opera" or the culinary delight "Peking Duck."
- Brand Names: Some established brands or institutions may still incorporate "Peking" in their names.
Understanding the meaning of Peking, therefore, encompasses both its direct definition as China's capital and its historical relationship with the modern name, Beijing.
