A vocal segment of China’s internet is claiming the Tang Dynasty, which ruled from 618 AD to 907 AD, never existed. This assertion challenges a period defined by territorial expansion and cultural flourishing, widely taught in schools and depicted in state TV dramas. The controversy poses a challenge for the Communist Party, which tightly controls historical narratives.

The trend began when history influencer Qiao Yu used astrological data in May to argue the dynasty was a myth. The claim spread rapidly, with some individuals contacting Xi’an’s tourism bureau to demand closure. The hashtag regarding the non-existent dynasty garnered tens of millions of views on Weibo. Qiao Yu’s basis involves arguing the Han-origin Song dynasty began earlier than accepted, effectively erasing the Tang.

Harvard professor William Kirby dismissed the theory as insane, affirming the Tang’s historical reality. State media has intervened strongly; The Paper criticized "historical nihilism," while People’s Daily called the claims absurd. Officials warn that doubting national history undermines cultural confidence and Chinese-style modernization.

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