In 2023, the Qiaopi tradition celebrates its 10th anniversary of being included in UNESCO‘s Memory of the World Register. Acknowledged for its remarkable universal value and global significance, Qiaopi represents a fascinating facet of Chinese history and culture. Essentially, it’s a form of correspondence and remittance documents that overseas Chinese used to maintain connections with their homeland.
The emergence of Qiaopi as a vital commercial activity dates back to the mid-19th century, reaching its zenith in the 1930s before it gradually faded out in the 1970s. During its heyday, the practice of Qiaopi played an instrumental role in sustaining the economy of the Chaozhou-Shantou region in southern China. It’s estimated that during the early 1930s, financial survival for 40-50% of families in this region hinged upon the remittances facilitated by Qiaopi.
To commemorate the 10th anniversary of Qiaopi’s recognition by UNESCO and to spread awareness about its historical and cultural significance, a two-day exhibition is being hosted in Bangkok, Thailand. The event, which commenced on July 9 and concludes on July 11, invites attendees to delve into the rich history and cultural aspects of Qiaopi.
Thailand has a special connection to this tradition, as it is home to one of the largest populations of overseas Chinese from Chaoshan City in the region where Qiaopi flourished. Hence, the exhibition doesn’t merely highlight the practice of Qiaopi; it underscores a cultural bridge that has linked overseas Chinese with their ancestral land and fostered deep-seated friendships between China and Thailand.
This occasion serves as a reflection of how Qiaopi, in its time, fortified the socio-economic fabric of certain Chinese regions and kept overseas Chinese rooted to their home country. It’s a testament to the endurance of cultural practices, the strength of diaspora ties, and the bonds of friendship between nations. The exhibition also hopes to inspire a renewed appreciation for this unique tradition and its pivotal role in the annals of Chinese history.
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