Rediscovering Manchu Heritage: The Story Of Young Yiyi From The Yehenala Clan

BEIJING — Nobody would suspect that this impish toddler is of noble lineage. Yiyi has the same buzz cut as other 3-year-old Chinese boys, the familiar habit of scattering his fleet of toy cars across the living room rug. However, his family name gives him away: Yehenala, a renowned Manchurian clan that once ruled China.

When Yiyi was born, his father and grandfather made the unusual decision to give him the old Manchu name. Generations earlier, the family had shortened the name to Ye to disguise the fact that they were aristocrats in a communist country founded on the principle of overturning feudalism. “We are proud of our royal blood,” said the boy’s father, Ye Jia, a 40-year-old state company employee who would change his name too if the bureaucracy wasn’t so complicated.

The name is a mouthful in a country where almost all family names are written by a single character and pronounced with a single syllable. Yiyi is the only child with such an exotic name in his Beijing preschool class, but his father believes it will serve him well in the long run, saying, “Even his teacher says he’s special.”

Table of Contents

• Biography of Yiyi and His Family
• The Rich Heritage of the Manchus
• Cultural Revivals and Education
• Final Thoughts on Manchu Identity

Biography of Yiyi and His Family

Yiyi is a member of the Yehenala clan, a name that resonates with historical significance in China. His lineage traces back to the Manchus, who were the last imperial rulers of the country, establishing the Qing Dynasty. The family’s decision to embrace this noble name for Yiyi marks a departure from their past, where they concealed their aristocratic roots to fit into a communist society.

Yiyi's father, Ye Jia, reflects a sense of pride in their heritage, albeit mixed with the complexities of modern identity. He is a state company employee who acknowledges the challenges of changing names due to bureaucratic hurdles. The Ye family’s story is intertwined with China's turbulent history, particularly during the Cultural Revolution when many aristocrats had to hide their identities.

Personal Details and Bio Data

The Rich Heritage of the Manchus

Descended from horse-riding nomadic people of northeastern China, the Manchus established the Qing Dynasty, which lasted from 1644 until 1912. Following the abdication of the last emperor, Pu Yi, the clan changed its name to Jin to distance themselves from their past. Today, many ethnic Manchus, including Yiyi's family, are rediscovering their roots and embracing their cultural identity.

The resurgence of interest in Manchu heritage has led to cultural seminars and the revival of the nearly extinct Manchu language, which is more akin to Mongolian than Chinese. Many individuals are now adopting their Manchu family names, proud of their lineage and eager to share their history with future generations.

Rediscovering Roots

The Ye family, like many others, has faded photographs of Cixi and other illustrious relatives, which they keep tucked away, reflecting a complex relationship with their history. During the Cultural Revolution, many members of the aristocracy were forced to hide their identities. Yiyi's grandfather, Ye Longpei, discovered his royal lineage only later in life, highlighting the shame and secrecy that surrounded their family for decades.

Cultural Revivals and Education

As interest in Manchu culture grows, several universities have begun offering courses on the Manchu language and its history. This initiative aims to preserve the language and culture, ensuring it does not fade into obscurity. Additionally, there are numerous cultural seminars focused on the dance, food, and music of Manchuria, fostering a deeper understanding of their heritage.

Despite the challenges, the Manchu identity is gradually gaining recognition in modern China. Events celebrating Manchu history and culture are becoming more common, showcasing traditional practices and creating a sense of community among those who identify as Manchu.

Challenges and Opportunities

Despite the revival of cultural interest, challenges remain. The number of native speakers of Manchu is dwindling, with estimates suggesting fewer than 100 fluent speakers today. However, as the government promotes minority languages and cultures, the future of Manchu heritage looks hopeful, particularly for the younger generation like Yiyi.

Final Thoughts on Manchu Identity

Yiyi's story is a reflection of the broader narrative of the Manchu people as they navigate their rich heritage in a contemporary context. The family's decision to embrace their noble lineage marks a significant shift in the perception of aristocracy in China. As they work to revive their culture and language, it serves as a reminder of the importance of identity and the power of heritage in shaping future generations.

With growing interest and support for cultural education, the Manchu community is poised to reclaim its place in the tapestry of Chinese history. Yiyi, with his unique name and lineage, represents a bridge between the past and the future, inspiring others to explore and celebrate their cultural roots.