Chinese traditions credits emperor Yu with the founding of the quasi-legendary Xia (Hsia) dynasty that begins in 2205 BCE.

He is best remembered for teaching the people techniques to tame rivers and lakes during an epic flood.

The Xia era would also go down as the first dynasty in what would later become China with his son Qi following after his reign.

Yu is the first person to whom the byname “the Great” remains attached throughout history, and the only Chinese ruler to be so honored.

Although Da Yu’s historicity is questionable, the legends associated with his reign may provide clues to meteorological events that may have changed the world.