Legendary accounts on the ancient history of Sichuan are reevaluated in the light
of recent archaeological discoveries. The transmitted texts allow distinguishing two
different strains of such accounts, one that emphasizes indigenous lore, and another
that integrates it into the master narrative of Chinese civilization. The archaeological
materials suggest that both may refl ect some elements of historical reality. The author
makes a preliminary attempt to coordinate specifi c archaeological fi nds with each of
the fi ve major rulers or ruling groups of ancient Shu. Rather than being successive
dynasties, these may have inhabited western Sichuan simultaneously, taking turns in
unifying the area under their rule.