Final answer:
Northern and Southern Chinese cultures blended together due to the invasion by nomads, increased farming, and the opening of the Grand Canal.
Step-by-step explanation:
The blending of Northern and Southern Chinese cultures can be attributed to several factors. One of the main reasons was the invasion by nomadic tribes from the north and west, particularly during the periods of the Yuan dynasty (1271-1368) and the Qing dynasty (1644-1911).
These nomads, such as the Mongols and the Manchus, established their rule over China and introduced their own customs and traditions, leading to a cultural amalgamation.
Another factor was the increased farming and agricultural advancements in southern China, which led to a surplus of food and population growth. The invention of more efficient agricultural technologies, such as chain-driven pumps for irrigation and the cultivation of fast-ripening rice strains, allowed for higher crop yields and the ability to support a larger population.
Lastly, the opening of the Grand Canal played a significant role in the blending of cultures. Completed during the Sui dynasty (581-618), the Grand Canal improved transportation and communication between the north and south, facilitating trade and cultural exchange.
It also allowed for the movement of people, goods, and ideas, further contributing to the blending of Northern and Southern Chinese cultures.