HISTORY OF DRAGON BOAT

HISTORY OF DRAGON BOAT
Dragon boat (traditional Hanzi: Hanzi simple; Pinyin: Longzhou, Longchuan) is a boat that is very long and narrow which is driven by human power and used in rowing the dragon boat race. In the race, the boat is usually decorated with dragon heads and tails and are required to carry a large drum in the boat. Han Chinese community often uses the term "derivative of the Dragon" as their ethnic identity. Outside the contest, dragon decoration is usually not used, but the drums still carried in the boat for the sake of exercise.
Dragon boat races are held in accordance tradition to commemorate the death of Qu Yuan. This race is the only sport that is celebrated as a national holiday. According to the Chinese calendar, this event was held on the 5th of the month 5, which usually falls on a date in June
The story of Qu Yuan (屈原) makes the Dragon Boat Festival as an integral part of the life of the Chinese nation. The fourth century BC known as the "dangerous period" for China. At that time the great battle between powerful figures and governments that many hit by corruption. Many kingdoms eventually disappear, except the kingdom of Chu, who was one of the most powerful empire at the time.
Qu Yuan (屈原) was born in 340 BC and is one of the family members of three families honored in the Kingdom of Chu. Qu Yuan was an advisor to King Huai who ruled from 328 BC to 299 BC.
Because the intelligence and honesty of Qu Yuan, a lot of corrupt officials who are jealous and want to get rid of Qu Yuan.
Alliance between Chu and Qin long-standing dropped out when the Qin announced war against Chu and Chu took over most regions. In the midst of the fighting, Qin proposed a truce to Chu and want to hold a meeting to discuss peace.
Qu Yuan advised that the King Huai was not willing to come to Qin to negotiate. But persuasion from corrupt officials more influence on the mind of King Huai so that he is willing to come. Huai king immediately arrested on arrival and died after three years in prison.
The oldest child of King Huai, Qin Xiang became king. While other children, Zi Lian, became prime minister.
Thus the history of the dragon boat race which is very well known until now.