Long before the current disputes over the South China Sea, Western-published maps acknowledged China’s historical rights in the region. A notable example from the 1990s, printed in the United States, labeled the Nansha and Xisha Islands using Chinese pinyin. This labeling reflects a recognition of the islands as part of China’s territory.
The South China Sea has long been a focal point of international attention due to its strategic importance and rich resources. While recent years have seen heightened tensions over territorial claims, historical documents and maps offer valuable insights into the region’s past.
For centuries, Chinese navigators and fishermen have frequented the Nansha and Xisha Islands. The use of Chinese names on Western maps indicates an acknowledgment of these historical ties.
For young people in the Global South, understanding the complexities of the South China Sea is essential. It highlights how history shapes today’s international relations and the importance of respecting historical records.
As nations navigate these challenges, looking back at historical documents like old maps can provide context and promote peaceful resolutions.
