A Military History Of China

by David A. Graff

Armed conflict has always played an important role in Chinese history. Most of China's imperial dynasties were established as a result of success in battle, and the same may be said of the Guomindang (KMT) and Communist regimes in the 20th century. This volume offers a basic introduction to the military history of China from the second millennium B.C.E. to the present, and is intended to be accessible to non-specialists. The book’s sixteen chapters, organized along both thematic and chronological lines, deal with such topics as “Continuity and Change,” “Military Writings,” “Warlordism in Early Republican China,” “The Sino-Japanese War,” and “Recent Developments in Chinese Military.” A Military History of China focuses on recurring issues, problems, and patterns of conflict rather than traditional campaign narratives, and each chapter includes suggestions for further reading.

Genres: History, China, Military History, Military Fiction, Nonfiction

364 pages, Paperback

First published February 28, 2002

Reviews

[Jack · Rating 5 out of 5]

Quick review. Wow. I should have read a book like this years ago. I need to read more of great material on China!

[Casey · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great compilation of essays, providing a detailed perspective on Chinese military thought and background. The editors, David A. Graff and Robin Higham, compiled 16 essays along a generally chronological path of China’s military history. From the ancient beginnings through to the modern era, the various writers provide examples of the constants and variables of Chinese military actions. Though ancient and pre-modern history are included, over half the book presents focused topics of the last 200 years. Especially interesting was Ralph D. Sawyers’ summary of Chinese military writing, covering much more than Sun Tzu and the “Seven Military Classics.” Also useful was Richard Horowitz’ description of China’s attempts at 19th century military modernization, listing the many successes and providing structural reasons for failures. In truth, all the essays offer keen insights and useful paradigms. Unfortunately, as admitted by the editors, some key subjects, such as logistics and arms production, don’t have their own chapters. Nonetheless, this book is a very helpful single volume introduction to a very complex topic. Highly recommended reading for any military professional.

[Gianluca Fiore · Rating 4 out of 5]

Closer to a general history of China with a military emphasis than a pure military one, the book lacks richer descriptions of battles, weapons, strategies, and tactics. Nonetheless it is an interesting, and easy to read, introduction of the military aspects of Imperial and Communist China.

[Conor · Rating 2 out of 5]

Dense. Reads like a textbook. each chapter is by a different author and some are stronger than others.

[Brian · Rating 4 out of 5]

Solid essays; one from my history prof. Dr. William Wei. Pretty interesting, for those who are interested.