Ships and Livelihoods of Southern Inhabitants in the Song Dynasty

During the Song Dynasty, the economy in the south experienced unprecedented development, with a significant population increase. Ships gradually shared a closer relationship with the livelihoods of the people. In inland rivers, lakes, and coastal areas, substantial groups of people “lived on ships,” relying almost entirely on ships for daily living. Many waterfront residents during the Song Dynasty took fishing as a crucial means of livelihood, with numerous individuals making a living from fisheries. Additionally, waterborne trade was an essential livelihood for many southern residents. In regions with long-term food shortages and during times of famine, rice boats were particularly vital for people to sustain themselves. Studying the relationship between ships, the most important transportation means of the time, and the livelihoods of southern inhabitants provides a crucial perspective for examining in what way and how an industry influences the socioeconomic landscape.