Shanghai China U.S. Navy Yangtze River Patrol Boat Real Photo Postcard

Shanghai emerged as a crucial global port and industrial center in the early 20th century, greatly facilitated by its strategic location at the mouth of the Yangtze River. The Yangtze, or Chang Jiang, served as China's primary inland artery, vital for transporting goods, raw materials, and passengers deep into the country's interior. The presence of a dry-dock, such as the one pictured, underscores Shanghai's advanced maritime infrastructure, essential for the repair and maintenance of the numerous vessels navigating these critical trade routes.