− | The Yellow Emperor is a legendary ancient Chinese ruler, to whom is credited the origins of all [Chinese] civilization. He is counted among the [[Three Sovereigns and Five Emperors]], also known as the Sage Kings, who are credited with introducing fire, agriculture, mankind, and the separation of Heaven and Earth. | + | The Yellow Emperor is a legendary ancient Chinese ruler, to whom is credited the origins of all [Chinese] civilization. He is counted among the [[Three Sovereigns and Five Emperors]], also known as the Sage Kings, who are credited with introducing fire, agriculture, mankind, and the separation of Heaven and Earth. He himself is credited with the invention of the [[crossbow]], the steamer, a kind of football, the cooking pot, the boat, the carriage, the [[bronze mirror]], and houses, while members of his court are credited with inventing writing ([[Cangjie]]), music ([[Ling Lun]]), the [[sexagenary cycle]], and medical texts. |
| + | Among the Sage Kings, the Yellow Emperor is considered the first great warrior, having defeated Chi You at the [[battle of Zhuolu]], identified in legend as the first great battle in Chinese history. |
| Throughout most of Chinese history, the Yellow Emperor was considered a historical figure, who actually lived, and ruled, in the distant, ancient, past. Today, however, scholars identify him as a purely legendary figure. | | Throughout most of Chinese history, the Yellow Emperor was considered a historical figure, who actually lived, and ruled, in the distant, ancient, past. Today, however, scholars identify him as a purely legendary figure. |
− | *K.C. Chang, ''Art, Myth, and Ritual'', Harvard University Press (1983), 2. | + | *K.C. Chang, ''Art, Myth, and Ritual'', Harvard University Press (1983), 2, 42. |