Ming Dynasty social panorama

Author: Editorial Board of "Zongheng" Best Books Series
Publisher:
Publishing Date: 2003-03-01
Features: In September 1982, following the 12th National Congress of the Communist Party of China, the Central Committee of the Party instructed that education on modern and contemporary history should be provided to young people. The historical and cultural materials collected by various levels of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference, which primarily focus on modern and contemporary history, are undoubtedly extremely important sources. It was in this broader context that the "Zongheng" magazine came into being. Historical and cultural materials fall under the category of reminiscence-based historical sources, possessing high ideological quality, the distinctive features of "first-hand experience, observation, and hearsay," and a specific, detailed, and vivid writing style. They enable readers to gain historical knowledge and learn from the lessons of history while enjoying an engaging and enjoyable reading experience. For the 19 years since its inception, we have adhered to this editorial philosophy, and it is precisely this consistent pursuit that has won us a large and stable readership. Around the mid-1990s, "Zongheng" began shifting the focus of its content from the first half of the 20th century to the second half of the 20th century, with the history of the People's Republic of China advancing through exploration gradually becoming the magazine's main subject. This is an inevitable outcome of historical development, determined by the magazine's "three-firsts" (first-hand experience, observation, and hearsay) characteristics, and it also aligns with the shifting reading interests of the readers. It can be said that for a considerable period in the future, the use of "three-firsts" historical materials to portray the history of China in the 20th century will remain the core content of "Zongheng."