General History of China

Exploring the Essence of National History, Summoning the Soul of the Nation An immortal work of Chinese general history that has influenced generations of Chinese people First time released in simplified horizontal typesetting [Editor's Recommendation] If there is a work of national history in this world that is imbued with the author's deepest emotions and sincerity, and ultimately merges with the author's life, it must include Qian Mu's "General Outline of National History". In 1940, Commercial Press published Qian Mu's "General Outline of National History," injecting confidence in victory into the Chinese military and civilians who were in desperate straits during the Anti-Japanese War. Eighty-five years later, Commercial Press is releasing the simplified horizontal typesetting edition of "General Outline of National History," allowing the light of the national spirit that Qian Mu safeguarded to illuminate the path forward for more people. [Content Introduction] During the most difficult period of the Anti-Japanese War, a scholar penned this "General Outline of National History" with profound affection, conveying his faith in this land and paying tribute to the unceasing history of the Chinese nation. In this monumental work of general history, Mr. Qian Mu systematically discusses the course of Chinese history from ancient times down to the early 20th century, revealing profound insights into the political systems, economic structures, social customs, cultural thoughts of various dynasties, and their interrelationships. Through this, he elucidates the characteristics of China's historical changes, its continuous traditions, its diverse and tolerant civilization, and the reasons for its periods of order and disorder, prosperity and decline. Mr. Qian Mu's warmth, insight, and wisdom regarding Chinese history have endowed this general history with enduring and timeless vitality. This book has become a classic for Chinese people to understand their national history. [Expert Reviews] The writing of Chinese general history... Mr. Qian's book was the last to be published and offered the most original insights. — Gu Jiegang This lecture notes alone are far superior to dozens of general histories written by modern scholars; it is truly difficult for others to match its academic prowess and discernment. ...It contains many original insights; just looking at the chapter titles, which highlight the dynamics and characteristics of each era, already shows a wealth of talent and thought, far superior to ordinary rigid, stagnant, and lifeless works. What is particularly rare and valuable is its ability to encapsulate the overall situation of an era in just a few words. — Yan Gengwang This book contains the topics for hundreds of doctoral dissertations, awaiting future generations to research and develop. — Xu Zhuoyun [Scholar Recommendations] This is a Chinese history textbook written at a time of national crisis, striving to awaken people's warmth and respect for history, yet after eighty or ninety years, its analysis and narration of history remain evergreen. Why? Because Mr. Qian Mu "mined copper from the mountain, smelted and forged it," grasping the main points and forming his own unique perspective in his insight and narration of major historical trends. "General Outline of National History" not only contains his great insights and judgments on traditional Chinese culture, but on the one hand, it "simply and concisely" presents the true evolution of traditional Chinese history, and on the other hand, it inspires people to think about various complex and difficult problems facing China today through "understanding old history." Therefore, it has long since "transformed from a textbook into a classic in the field of Chinese history." — Ge Zhaoguang (Distinguished Professor of Liberal Arts, Fudan University) "General Outline of National History" is a work of general history completed by Mr. Qian Mu during the Anti-Japanese War, representing his systematic views on Chinese history. Mr. Qian once mentioned that the Chinese "such a large nation" has "not dispersed, not divided, grown stronger and larger day by day, moving towards a great goal of historical culture together" for thousands of years. "It has also endured for so long, without stopping." The entire book aims to display this grand panorama, understand its tumultuous process, and uncover its intrinsic spirit. Throughout the book, there are profound and thorough historical commentaries, as well as deep and sincere emotions. It inspired people to cherish tradition during times of crisis and provides an essential reference for future readers interested in understanding China. — Luo Zhitian (Distinguished Professor of Liberal Arts, Sichuan University) Every word and line is steeped in blood and tears, steeped in deep national sorrow and historical consciousness, full of nostalgia and respect for the past, and anticipation and confidence in the future. — Guo Qiyong (Professor, School of Philosophy and College of Chinese Studies, Wuhan University)

出版日期/Publication Date：August 1, 2025
出版社/Publisher：商务印书馆
出品方/Imprint:
页数/Page: 696