An Introduction to Chinese History and Culture, 2015 China Academic Library Series

This book breaks with convention and provides an overview of Chinese history in the form of special topics. These topics include the major issues of ?A Scientific Approach to the Origins of Chinese Civilization,? ?Ancient Chinese Society and the Change of Dynasties,? ?The Golden Ages of the Han, Tang and Qing Dynasties: a Comparative Analysis,? ?Transportation Systems and Cultural Communication in Ancient China,? ?Ethnic Relations in Chinese History,? ?The Systems of Politics, Law and Selecting Officials in Ancient China,? ?Agriculture, Handicraft and Commerce in Ancient China,? ?The Military Thought and Military Systems of Ancient China,? ?The Rich and Colorful Social Life in Ancient China,? ?The Evolution of Ancient Chinese Thought,? ?The Treasure House of Ancient Chinese Literature and Art,? ?The Emergence and Progress of Ancient Chinese Historiography,? ?Reflection on Ancient Chinese Science and Technology,? ?New Issues in the Modern History of China,? and ?A General Progression to the Socialist Modernization of the People?s Republic of China.?

The book is based on current literature and research by university students. The modern history section is relatively concise, while the topics related to ancient Chinese history are longer, reflecting the country?s rich history and corresponding wealth of materials. There is also an in-depth discussion on the socialist modernization of the People?s Republic of China.

The book provides insights into Chinese history, allowing readers ?to see the value of civilization through history; to see the preciseness of history through civilization.?  It focuses on the social background, lifestyle and development processes to illustrate ideologies and ideas.

Generalizes the main contents of Chinese history in the form of 15 special topics

Blends history with civilization, allowing the readers to get a comprehensive understanding of the other aspects of ancient life while looking into Chinese ancient learning, thinking and political systems

Adopts the writing method of “from society to thinking,” helping the readers to grasp the changes of thinking and of development process