Demystifying growth and development in North Song China, 960–1127

The Northern Song Period (960–1127) has been recognised as one of the most important eras in China’s economic and demographic history. This study investigates climatic and geopolitical conditions and factors that led to economic restructuring whereby intensive growth took place to generate more wealth to support a growing population. This paper reveals the unique nature and mechanisms behind the Song remarkable economic growth with quantitative evidence.