Final answer:
Historically, it is true that different religions coexisted in Chinese cities. Evidence from the Tang dynasty reveals a tolerance for various foreign and local faiths, and even with the limitations under modern communism, diverse religions persist in China.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question asks whether it is true or false that different religions could coexist in a Chinese city. Historically, this is true.
In the Tang dynasty, for example, the Chinese capital welcomed a myriad of faiths, including Judaism, Islam, Zoroastrianism, Manichaeism, and Christianity.
The Syrian branch of Christianity even conducted masses in the Tang palace. Besides these foreign religions, numerous local cults were practiced by the people.
This religious diversity was a product of both the state's tolerance and the spiritual needs of its diverse population. Over time, this multiplicity of faiths generally coexisted, with the state occasionally intervening but often permitting the practice of various religions.
Even in modern times, while China under communism officially supports no religion, various belief systems, such as Buddhism, Taoism, Confucianism, and Christianity, continue to be practiced, albeit with varying levels of state tolerance and support.
Historically, as cities grew due to urbanization and immigration, newcomers brought their religious practices with them, leading to a mosaic of faith communities, such as those observed during urbanization in America.
This historical context points to the resilience and adaptability of religious expression throughout Chinese history and across different political eras.