A Fun Read Through Chinese History

In an engaging, accessible style, the author explores the domestic and foreign affairs, trade and technology, arts and culture, and customs of successive dynasties. From times of prosperity and celebration to the ravages of war, from north of the Great Wall to the lands south of the great rivers, this sweeping account spans thousands of years and crosses every dynasty. Taking an unconventional approach and offering a unique perspective, the book traces the patterns and principles behind history with wit and ease.

From primitive society to the early Spring and Autumn period, thousands of years of rule by virtue left later generations with fond memories of “wise rulers” and “enlightened sovereigns.” Once individual ambition became the spirit of the age, Liu Bang and his descendants pursued progress with determination, defeated the Xiongnu, and rose to power. After the heights of the Sui and Tang, military men took the reins of government. The Song dynasties favored scholars and suppressed the military, leaving the country impoverished and weak. The Yuan unified the realm, but lasted barely a century. The Ming began in an age of prosperity, but could not sustain it for long. The Qing inherited the Ming system, but imposed cultural autocracy on the Han people. Though it entered a prosperous age, society grew divided between an arrogant upper class and an apathetic populace, and ancient China moved toward its end. Open this book and follow the author’s witty, vivid prose through the grand sweep of history, searching through the mists for the patterns and principles behind its transformations.