‘Shen Wansan Business Saint of China: New National Hero s Construction in the Context of One Belt One Road Initiative

Abstract

This study is basic qualitative research investigating the phenomenon of constructing Shen Wanshan, the richest man in the late Yuan and early Ming dynasties of China, into a national business hero in the present. Therefore, the research objectives are fourfold: (1) to study Shen Wanshan's life history, business culture and society in China during the Yuan and Ming dynasties; (2) to study modern Chinese business in the context of the Belt and Road Initiative; (3) to study the process of constructing Shen Wanshan into a national business hero in China; and (4) to study the image of Shen Wanshan as a "national business hero" applied to Chinese business today.

The results show that during the Yuan Dynasty, the improvement of the market environment in Jiangnan provided a suitable environment for Shen Wanshan to accumulate wealth and capital. He adopted an ambitious trading model, including land management, grain trade, foreign trade, and capital lending, all of which were driven by the mobility and internationalization of Chinese trade at that time, as well as the donation of his wealth to the state for the development of the common good.

As for Shen Wanshan, over time, the historical narrative of Shen Wanshan was no longer portrayed as a wealthy merchant. But he is a legendary figure who is like a saint of business. Scholars and local people described him differently in the Ming and Qing dynasties, so they gradually molded him into the image of a "national business hero". His transformation was determined by the people's changing attitudes towards wealth, values, and understanding of the important role of financial merchants in economic growth over the centuries. By the end of the 21st century, Shen Wansan's image has been integrated into tourism, cultural brands, and corporate identity planning through the Belt and Road Initiative. The process of globalization and economic development is anticipating a new wave of success, driven by China as the main driving force. Shen Wansan's activities in the 14th century resemble those of modern Chinese enterprises seeking internationalization, as evidenced by their continuous cross-regional trade. His wealth provides important historical lessons in ensuring that Chinese enterprises have the ability to overcome political obstacles, explore economic prospects, and actively participate in trade at the international level. In the specific advancement of the Belt and Road Initiative, the symbol of Shen Wansan has become a paradigm of entrepreneurial spirit, business acumen, and global business awareness, which is reflected in contemporary corporate brand strategies that incorporate his legacy into their daily decision-making.

This article explores the meticulous portrayal and continuous changes in the heroic image of Shen Wansan. This is consistent with the changes in the image of merchants and the Chinese government's intention to use historical figures to shape the national image and cultural export image. By carefully studying his construction process from a merchant to a national business hero, this study deeply reveals how Chinese business heroes grow and integrate into China's modern economic and cultural system.

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