An earthen wall in Tuna Township in China's Xizang bears witness to the region's past humiliation and the heroism manifested by local people more than a century ago.

The wall, now part of the site of the Qumigxung heroes monument, was built 120 years ago by Tibetan soldiers to defend against British invasion.

Xinhua speaks to locals to uncover the past stories of pain and indignation, as well as how the region has transformed since democratic reform was launched 65 years ago.