Evolution of Social Resilience to Flood Hazards in the Tea-Horse Road Area, Southwest China

The ancient Tea-Horse Road has been a network of trade routes linking Southwest China to Tibet, Southeast Asia, and beyond for over a millennium. The regions along this route, which traverse complex terrains and diverse ecosystems, have historically been vulnerable to natural hazards, particularly floods. This study provides a millennium-scale perspective on the evolution of social resilience to flood hazards in key areas along the Tea-Horse Road, focusing on how communities have adapted to the recurring threat of floods through time. This research identifies key periods in which social resilience to floods either strengthened or weakened, linked to shifts in political governance, technological advancements, and environmental changes. During the Tang and Song dynasties, the expansion of trade along the Tea-Horse Road coincided with the construction of flood control measures such as embankments and water diversion systems. These infrastructural developments were coupled with strong local governance and communal labor systems, which enabled communities to respond collectively to flood events. However, periods of political instability, such as during the Ming and early Qing dynasties, saw a decline in these coordinated efforts, leading to increased flood vulnerability. The adaptability of these communities also manifested through agricultural diversification, with the cultivation of flood-tolerant crops and the development of terraced farming techniques that reduced soil erosion and water runoff during heavy rains. The study also explores the role of cultural factors in fostering resilience. The transmission of flood-related knowledge through oral traditions, local customs, and festivals contributed to long-term social learning, allowing communities to adjust their strategies in response to changing environmental conditions. In recent decades, strategies for flood resilience are being enhanced by the infrastructure development, urbanization, and technical innovations. This study highlights the promising potential of integrating traditional knowledge systems, community-based approaches, and modern technological solutions to enhance resilience in the face of increasing environmental uncertainties.