What Was the Patrol System of the Ancient Great Wall Like

The patrol system of the ancient Great Wall was a well-organized and crucial aspect of its defense. Soldiers were divided into patrol teams, which were assigned specific sections of the wall to monitor. These teams would make regular rounds, usually at fixed intervals, throughout the day and night. During the day, they scanned the surrounding areas for any signs of enemy movement, such as dust clouds raised by approaching cavalry or unusual activities in the valleys. At night, they relied on their senses and the moonlight, if available, to detect any potential threats. Communication was key. They used signal flags during the day and torches at night to relay messages to adjacent patrol teams and the watchtowers. If any abnormalities were found, they would immediately sound the alarm, either by shouting, beating drums, or lighting the beacon fires. This continuous and vigilant patrol system ensured that the Great Wall was constantly guarded, ready to respond to any incursions.