Essential Knowledge of Chinese History

Chinese Historical Essentials was Lü Simian’s breakthrough work in historiography and the first general history of China written in vernacular Chinese. Since its publication in the Republic of China era, it has remained popular at home and abroad for nearly a century, earning recognition from scholars and history enthusiasts alike. Written in clear, accessible prose, the book traces China’s history from ancient myths of ethnic origins to the Republican Revolution, offering insightful interpretations of politics, geography, society, and culture. It brings five thousand years of history together in one volume. This revised edition includes numerous beautiful illustrations to help readers get started with Chinese history.