Development of Geological Science in China in the Twentieth Century

In the present stage of accelerated development of science and technology at the turn of the century it may be deemed that the geological science in China is destined to prosper, as viewed from the increasing society needs, the scientific problems and the basic technological background provided by the society, the three basic elements for the development of science. Owing to the sagacity and foresight of the founders of geology in China, Chinese geological research had already won a world fame in 1920s to 1930s. From the 1950s to 1970s the geological science in China had undergone a rapid development. From the end of 1970s onwards the geological science in China had undergone an overall development. With the acceptance of the new concept of Earth System Science by the majority of geologists, all branches of geological studies will merge into a comprehensive and coordinate research and the geological science in China will be facing an entirely new stage of development in the 21st century.