Since it was first built in the 2nd century BC, China's dynasties have added to the Great Wall of China, but has the wall really protected the country from invasion?

FACT CHECK: We strive for accuracy and fairness. But if you see something that doesn't look right, click here to contact us! HISTORY reviews and updates its content regularly to ensure it is complete and accurate.

RELATED CONTENT

The Great Wall of China was constructed over several centuries and claimed the lives of thousands of builders.

Peter Weller visits the Great Wall of China.

Qin Shi Huang, the first emperor of China, ordered the construction of the Great Wall to defend against invading nomadic tribes.

It took millennia to build, but today the Great Wall of China stands out as one of the world's most famous landmarks.

Did you know that Wall Street was named after an actual wall that once stretched across Manhattan? Host Brian Unger reveals the hidden history of Wall Street.

President Kennedy's diplomatic resolve was tested as tension mounted at the Berlin wall.