The routedivision defense system, namely, the regionalgeneral defense system, was introduced after the nine borders of the Ming Dynasty took shape. The system began and operated since the imperial years of Zhengtong, and up till the imperial years of Wanli it became systematic and stable. However, the formation and evolution of the routedivision defense system in the Four Fortresses in Shaanxi somewhat differed. A systematic and complete description of the case is not likely for lack of relevant historical records.

defense system of the Ming Dynasty; routedivision defense system; the Four Fortresses in Shaanxi