The Great Wall of China was built primarily during the Ming Dynasty, which lasted from the 14th to the 17th century. While sections of the wall were constructed much earlier, during various dynasties, the most well-known and substantial parts we see today were reinforced and rebuilt during the Ming era for defense against invasions. Stretching over 13,000 miles, the wall represents one of the most impressive architectural feats in history. Its construction involved vast labor forces and resources, primarily using materials like bricks, tamped earth, and stone, creating a strong military defense system that has become a symbol of China's historical resilience.