The History of China:

The Greenwood Histories of the Modern Nations

by David Curtis Wright

Every school and public library should update its resources on China with this engagingly written and succinct narrative history of China from prehistoric times to 2000. The world's oldest continuing civilization, China's technological, cultural, and philosophical developments have influenced the world throughout its long history. Wright, an expert on China, has written a fascinating history that not only makes the complex history of China clear to the reader, but weaves into each era of that history the thematic strands of diplomatic, cultural, and technological history. Following a timeline of historical events, the narrative begins with a discussion of geography, government, and population. In successive chapters the chronological narrative covers China's early history, pre-imperial China, early imperial China, middle and late imperial China, the tumultuous 19th century, revolution and republic, the creation of the People's Republic to Mao's death, Deng's China, and China in the 1990s. The work closes with a discussion of China's challenges in the 21st century-overpopulation, a graying population, and economic development. Brief biographical sketches of notable people in the history of China, a chronological list of Chinese dynasties, a glossary, and a bibliographic essay of recommended books for further reading add reference value to the history.

Genres: History, China, Nonfiction

264 pages, Hardcover

First published April 30, 2001

Reviews

[Kara · Rating 4 out of 5]

Second read. I was lucky enough to have David Wright as a professor and luckier yet that he wrote the textbook. I would recommend this to anyone who wants a brief primer for the entirety of Chinese history - the scope is impressive - that is both detailed, yet eminently readable. Just a goddamn great book.

[Wen Xinqi · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is amazing. It covers China's 5,000 years of history well, and the book is neither too long or too short. The author is very detailed and his writing is enjoyable, it was not a boring read. This is the best book I have read about the history of China, it's a simple summary but it is still very informative. Highly recommend 👌

[Adam Chandler · Rating 4 out of 5]

As brief overview to the history of one of the oldest civilizations on earth, it is four stars. If the richness of the history of China is desired, this would be three stars or less given the modest page count. The book was required reading for a university course led by the author. He is in person and in writing incredibly knowledgeable about Chinese history. It is well worth the read for an introduction (and the newest edition would be better to get). My only qualm is that nearly half the volume deals with the past 150 years with the other half describing the prior 3000 years. Much detail is lost.

[Jindřich Zapletal · Rating 5 out of 5]

A primer of Chinese history from the Qin dynasty to the present, with great emphasis on recent times. It is entirely geared towards political/diplomatic/dynastic side of things. Given how enormous his subject is, I think the author is doing very well in this brief format. The book does not require much in the way of prerequisites.

[Eray Mutlu · Rating 3 out of 5]

Step into the captivating narrative of "The History of China" by David Curtis Wright, a literary journey that peels back the layers of China's past, revealing a tapestry woven with history, power struggles, and diverse ideologies.

Wright skillfully guides readers through the geographical isolation that shaped Chinese civilization, emphasizing the significance of the North China Plain and the dichotomy of the Yellow River, aptly referred to as "China's Sorrow." The author masterfully navigates the political landscape, portraying China as a unitary state while uncovering the resilient spirit of certain provinces and autonomous regions.

A compelling aspect of the book is the exploration of cultural struggles in autonomous regions like Inner Mongolia and Xinjiang, offering a nuanced understanding of the challenges to cultural integrity. Wright delves into the lives of the elite class, the cadres, whose allegiance to state orthodoxy cements their status, providing readers with insights into the complexities of China's political system.

The book doesn't shy away from addressing demographic challenges, notably the concerns surrounding a large population of frustrated young men and the potential impact on global security. Reports of women being deceived and sold as wives to Chinese men add a sense of urgency to the discussion, making it a poignant reflection on societal dynamics.

Moving seamlessly through historical epochs, from pre-Imperial China to the imperial eras, the author unveils the intricate tapestry of dynasties, philosophical schools, and cultural transformations. Wright's narrative brings to life the chaos of the Eastern Zhou era, the rise of Confucius, and the contrasting perspectives of Taoism, offering readers a rich understanding of China's intellectual landscape.

The exploration of imperial eras, including the Tang, Yuan, and Ming dynasties, showcases China's dynamic civilization. The integration of Buddhism, advancements like papermaking, and historical developments provide a comprehensive view of the nation's evolution.

Chapters on the tumultuous nineteenth century and the revolutionary period vividly depict China's interactions with the West and the challenges during the transition to the Republic. Wright critically examines Mao Zedong's role, portraying him as a complex figure in Chinese history.

The narrative extends into the post-Mao era, exploring Deng Xiaoping's reforms and the internal repression under Xi Jinping. Wright raises thought-provoking questions about China's human rights situation, particularly in Xinjiang, and addresses the nation's assertiveness in the international arena.

"The History of China" emerges as an illuminating journey through the heart of China's past and present. David Curtis Wright's meticulous research and engaging storytelling make this book an invaluable resource, offering readers a human touch to the complexities of China's history, governance, and societal dynamics.

[Eri]

Od počátku věků do současnosti. Stručné dějiny místy velmi omezený narativ na jeden úhel pohledu. K získání zevrubného přehledu o čínských dějinách ale dost dobré.