Final answer:
Beijing, known for its historical name Peking, has been an integral part of Chinese history and was established as a capital in the Ming dynasty, marked by the construction of the Forbidden City.
Step-by-step explanation:
Beijing, now a city of 12 million people, was formerly known as Yanjing, and in more recent history, Peking. This city has been a significant hub throughout Chinese history, from the Mongol invasions when it was known as Dadu to its establishment as the capital by the Yongle Emperor during the Ming dynasty. The Forbidden City, a walled complex of palaces, temples and gardens, was built as the central nervous system of the empire, underlining Beijing's importance. Over centuries, the city grew significantly as political and cultural developments unfolded, contributing to its vast population and economic might today.