# Geological Survey of China

> Chinese research institute (1916-1949)

**Wikidata**: [Q120506898](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q120506898)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/geological-survey-of-china

## Summary
The Geological Survey of China was a Chinese research institute that operated from 1916 to 1949, initially headquartered in Pei-p'ing (Beijing) and later relocating to Nanjing in 1935. It served as the predecessor to the modern China Geological Survey and was known by various names including the National Geological Survey of China.

## Key Facts
- Founded in 1916 during the Republic of China period
- Headquarters moved from Pei-p'ing (Beijing) to Nanjing in 1935
- Operational period spanned from 1916 to 1949 when it was dissolved
- Also known as The National Geological Survey of China and The Geological Survey of China
- Classified as a research institute focused on geological research activities
- Was succeeded by the China Geological Survey after its dissolution in 1949
- Activities documented in scientific literature including Science journal publications

## FAQs
### Q: When was the Geological Survey of China founded and dissolved?
A: The Geological Survey of China was founded in 1916 and dissolved in 1949, operating for 33 years during the Republic of China period.

### Q: Where was the Geological Survey of China headquartered?
A: The headquarters was initially in Pei-p'ing (now Beijing) until 1935, when it relocated to Nanjing.

### Q: What was the relationship between the Geological Survey of China and the modern China Geological Survey?
A: The Geological Survey of China (1916-1949) was the predecessor to the modern China Geological Survey, which succeeded it after the organization was dissolved in 1949.

### Q: What was the primary purpose of the Geological Survey of China?
A: The Geological Survey of China was a research institute whose primary purpose was geological research and surveying in China.

## Why It Matters
The Geological Survey of China played a crucial role in establishing modern geological research infrastructure in China during a critical period of the nation's development. Operating between 1916 and 1949, it laid the foundation for systematic geological mapping, resource assessment, and scientific education in China. This was particularly significant as China was transitioning through various political upheavals while developing its natural resource base and industrial capabilities. The survey's relocation from Pei-p'ing to Nanjing in 1935 reflected changing administrative priorities during a time when the capital was moving south. As the predecessor to today's China Geological Survey, its work directly contributed to China's geological knowledge base and resource management strategies.

## Notable For
- First systematic geological surveying organization in modern China, operating continuously for 33 years (1916-1949)
- Headquarters relocation in 1935 from Pei-p'ing to Nanjing reflected significant administrative changes during China's Republic period
- Served as the foundation for China's modern geological research infrastructure before being reorganized in 1949
- Published research in international scientific journals, including Science, demonstrating China's participation in global geological discourse

## Body
### History and Timeline
- Founded in 1916 during the Republic of China period
- Operated continuously until its dissolution in 1949
- Headquarters location changed from Pei-p'ing to Nanjing in 1935
- Succeeded by the China Geological Survey after dissolution

### Administration and Location
- Primary headquarters initially located in Pei-p'ing (now Beijing)
- Relocated headquarters to Nanjing in 1935
- Both location changes are documented in scientific literature

### Organization and Classification
- Classified as a research institute, an organization whose primary purpose is research
- Also known by various aliases: The National Geological Survey of China, The Geological Survey of China, National Geological Survey of China
- Part of China's scientific research infrastructure during the early 20th century

### Documentation and References
- Activities documented in scientific publications including Science journal
- DOI references available: https://doi.org/10.1126/science.88.2289.443
- Described in English-language scientific literature
- Reference from Science journal volume 56, issue 1444, page 233 (1916) for founding date
- Reference from Science journal volume 88, issue 2289, page 443 for headquarters changes

## References

1. [Source](https://doi.org/10.1126/science.88.2289.443)
2. [Source](https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/science.56.1444.233)