Photo: Chinese Kingdoms Rose, Fell With Monsoons?

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In north-central China's Wanxiang cave (above) researchers discovered a record of monsoon activity preserved in a stalagmite—a rock formed by mineral-rich waters dripping onto the floor year after year.

Monsoon cycles coincide with the rise and fall of China's ancient kingdoms throughout the centuries, researchers said in November 2008.

Image courtesy Science/AAAS

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