Population history of China

The population history of China covers the long-term pattern of population growth in China and its impact on the history of China. China's population grew significantly over the centuries, putting pressure on the available arable land. This led to remarkable changes in agriculture, such as the introduction of new crops and farming techniques, to increase productivity.

China has experienced major population movements throughout its history, often driven by events like famine, rebellion, or political upheaval. This has led to the depopulation of some areas and influx of people to others, such as the Han migration to Manchuria.

Population policies and management: Chinese leaders in the 20th century, especially in the 1950s-1990s, were concerned about the rapid growth of China's population and implemented policies like the One-Child Policy to manage it.

Comparison to other countries: China's population growth rate has not been unusually high compared to other developed countries, except for the period of 1949-1979 when Maoist pro-natalist policies led to a rapid increase.

Uneven population distribution: China's population is unevenly distributed, with high densities in the eastern agricultural regions and sparse populations in the western frontier areas. The government has made efforts to develop the western regions and encourage settlement there.

The population went through many cycles that generally reached peaks along each imperial power and was decimated due to wars and barbarian invasions.

In the late 19th century and the early 20th century, the percentage share of the world total has been trending down. This was caused by two opposite factors: On one hand, the world population has been growing explosively. On the other hand, in order to address the poverty issue, China implemented a strict birth control policy. Only one child was allowed per family, and new housing was constructed with that in mind. The policy was dropped in the early 21st century.

By the 2020s, China's population was aging rapidly, with many more old people and fewer workers. Population growth ended and a small decline began. India surpassed China in total population.^[1]

For recent trends see demographics of China and China.