Is Nanking Nanjing?

The city of Nanjing, located in Jiangsu Province, China, has a complex historical background that often leads to confusion with its former name, Nanking. The names "Nanking" and "Nanjing" refer to the same city, but they represent different Romanizations of the Chinese characters for the city. This article explores the historical, linguistic, and cultural reasons behind the dual names of Nanjing and Nanking, and how they reflect the city's rich heritage.

Historical Context

Nanjing has a long and storied history, serving as a major city in China through several dynasties. Originally known as "Jiankang," it was the capital of the Eastern Jin Dynasty, the Southern Dynasties, and later, the Ming Dynasty before the capital was moved to Beijing. During these times, the city was known for its political significance and its role in various historical events.

The name "Nanking" is a result of the Wade-Giles system, a Romanization scheme used in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. This system was popular among Western scholars and in English-language publications. On the other hand, "Nanjing" uses the Pinyin system, which was officially adopted by the Chinese government in 1958 and is the modern standard Romanization used today.

Linguistic Differences

The distinction between Nanking and Nanjing lies primarily in the Romanization systems used to transcribe Chinese characters into Latin script. The Wade-Giles system, developed by Thomas Wade and Herbert Giles in the 19th century, was the first systematic attempt to Romanize Chinese characters. It was widely used in Western countries and influenced many historical maps, books, and documents.

Pinyin, introduced by the Chinese government in the mid-20th century, offers a more consistent and phonetic approach to Romanization. It has become the standard system for Chinese language education and international communication. "Nanjing" reflects the phonetic pronunciation of the characters "南京," which means "Southern Capital."

Cultural and Political Significance

Nanjing's historical importance is reflected in both its ancient and modern names. As a capital city, it has been a center of cultural development and political change. The Ming Dynasty, in particular, left a significant legacy in Nanjing, including architectural and cultural landmarks that attract visitors today.

The name "Nanking" is often associated with historical events such as the Nanking Massacre during the Second Sino-Japanese War. This tragic event has had a profound impact on the city's historical narrative and international relations. The use of "Nanking" in historical texts and discussions can evoke powerful emotions and memories related to this period.

Modern Usage and Perception

In contemporary usage, "Nanjing" is the standard Romanization used in official documents, international communication, and most modern publications. The transition from "Nanking" to "Nanjing" reflects a broader trend of updating Romanization systems to better represent the sounds of the Chinese language.

However, "Nanking" persists in some contexts, especially in historical references and older literature. This dual usage can sometimes lead to confusion, particularly for those unfamiliar with the differences between the Romanization systems.

Conclusion

In summary, "Nanking" and "Nanjing" are two names for the same city, representing different Romanization systems and historical periods. Understanding the historical and linguistic background of these names provides insight into the city's rich cultural heritage and the evolution of Chinese Romanization practices. Whether referred to as Nanking or Nanjing, the city remains a vital part of China's historical and cultural landscape.