So That’s How the Tang Dynasty Was (Platinum Edition) / History of China

When people talk about the Tang dynasty, they always associate it with one word: “prosperity.” Indeed, its literary splendor, formidable military might, and the spectacle of envoys from every land paying tribute left the whole world in awe. The Tang people's valor, openness, and broad-mindedness have long inspired admiration among later generations of Chinese. But that was not the whole story. Behind the shadow of the golden age lay darkness and bloodshed. After its peak came war and devastation. This book retraces the 289 turbulent years of the Tang dynasty, digging into familiar historical events and figures. Through the course of history and the fates of its people, it seeks to uncover the secrets behind the dynasty's rise and fall and capture the essential character of the Tang. Wang Jue Ren's Bloody Tang series was hugely popular, and this book brings together the finest results of the author's many years of research into Tang history. The author is skilled at looking beyond the surface of historical records to reveal their darker truths: What was Li Shimin really trying to conceal when he altered the history books? Why did the ruthless and domineering Wu Zetian choose to forgive others before she died? The result is a deeply illuminating and satisfying read.