明清时期江南蚕桑业发展的若干因素（1368-1840）-《中国农史》

文章信息/Info

Title:: Analysis of the Development Factors of the Jiangnan Sericulture Industry in Ming and Qing Dynasties

Author(s):: WANG Hong-wei SHENG Bang-yue; （Institution of Chinese Agricultural Civilization,Nanjing Agricultural University,Nanjing 210095）

Keywords:: history of sericulture industry; development factors; Ming and Qing dynasties; Jiangnan area

摘要:: 明代至清代中期，蚕桑业在全国其它地区衰废不举，而在江南地区却趋于繁荣。江南蚕桑业发展的因素既有内因，也有外因，二者相互交织，主要包括四个方面：首先，蚕桑业利润较高，为了追求经济效益，减轻赋税负担，当地很多农民改稻种桑。其次，国内外市场蚕丝需求量的增长，刺激江南地区扩大蚕桑生产。再次，当地的水土环境发生较大变化，荡田及旱地的开发，促进了桑树栽植。最后，以蚕月禁忌和蚕神祭拜为主要内容的尚桑重蚕习俗,在一定程度上保障了蚕桑业的顺利进行。

Abstract:: During the Ming and Qing dynasties(1368-1840), the sericulture industry in many regions of the country was reclining, but it was booming in Jiangnan area, which became the most important production area of silkworm nationwide. There are four main reasons behind this phenomenon. Firstly, because of the high profit of the silkworm mulberry industry, many farmers in Jiangnan area began to grow mulberry instead of rice to seek more economic benefits and reduce tax burdens. Secondly, the increasing demand of silk both at home and abroad boomed the silkworm industry in Jiangnan area. Thirdly, the change of the natural environment in Jiangnan area and the development of shoaly land and dry land promoted the planting of mulberry trees and the production of mulberry leaves. Fourthly, the Chinese customs on silkworm and mulberry trees were especially rich and colorful in Jiangnan area featuring silkworm month taboo and silkworm god worship, which, to a certain extent, guarantees the sound development of the silkworm industry.