The Historical Maps of Wei, Yongzhou and Other States in the Northern Dynasties

Map Introduction

Yongzhou (with its administrative seat in Chang'an) * 426 AD: The Northern Wei initially captured Yongzhou (seat in Chang'an) from the control of the Da Xia (Helian Xia), but it was subsequently retaken by Da Xia. * 430 AD: The Northern Wei secured permanent control over Yongzhou, establishing administrative institutions there which lasted until the late Northern Wei period.

Qinzhou (with its administrative seat in Shanggui) * 436 AD: The Northern Wei occupied Qinzhou (modern Tianshui, Gansu) after defeating the Chouchi forces, formally incorporating it into its territory. * 488 AD: The Northern Wei renamed the Chouchi Garrison to Liangzhou, but Qinzhou remained an important military stronghold.

Xiazhou * 439 AD: Following the Northern Wei's unification of northern China, the Xiazhou region became part of its controlled territory, though its specific administrative evolution is not clearly recorded in historical sources.

Woye Garrison (north of modern Wuyuan County, Inner Mongolia) * Background: Established in 396 AD as one of the Six Garrisons set up by the Northern Wei to defend against incursions from the Rouran Khaganate to the north. Woye was a key military strongpoint within this system. * Status Change: Initially garrisoned by sons of Xianbei nobility and powerful Chinese families, it held high prestige. However, after Emperor Xiaowen moved the capital to Luoyang, the Six Garrisons gradually became marginalized and were turned into places of exile for criminals. * Uprising: In 523 AD, Poliuhan Baling launched a rebellion here, proclaiming himself the "Yuanzhen King." This event ignited the widespread Revolt of the Six Garrisons.