Frontier walls, labour energetics and Qin imperial collapse

Abstract

The imperial northern frontiers of China during the Qin and Han Dynasties were protected by large-scale defensive walls. This paper considers the colossal investment of direct labour and logistics behind these constructions in the last few centuries BCE. Drawing upon new fieldwork, 3D recordings and an ethnohistorical meta-analysis, we develop an architectural energetic model for different construction methods and workforce sustenance. Our estimates highlight the significant logistical challenges, suggesting that the Qin Empire's mass conscription, forced relocations, and nationwide resource mobilisation potentially contributed to its collapse by 210 BCE.