Record of Sino-Soviet Relations

Author: Shi Zhe (narrated) / Li Haewen (compiled)
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2005-02-01
Features: The strategic position and role of the former Soviet Union in China are of paramount importance. As a chronicler of early PRC-Soviet relations, Shi Zhe is irreplaceable. As a bridge for high-level communications between China and the Soviet Union—translator—he directly listened to the secret, historic dialogues between the two top leaders. Oral history is a unique textbook that reveals the one-sidedness of official records. With a bit of reflection, one can also discern why official histories have been compiled into the forms we are familiar with today. The narrators are now at an age where there is no need to tell lies. The restored details of personal history can supplement the parts intentionally overlooked in orthodox historical perspectives and correct long-standing misinterpretations of historical facts. The primary purpose of the "Contemporary China Oral History" series is to preserve history, providing credible sources for researchers of contemporary Chinese history. The vitality of oral history lies in its authenticity. Therefore, the series primarily features narratives from eyewitnesses, whether through oral accounts, self-narratives, or memoirs. These narratives must be from the perspective of individuals who were directly involved in, made decisions about, or participated in the events. Moreover, they must be presented with a serious, earnest, and fact-based attitude. Of course, it is impossible to completely avoid emotional elements, and doing so would make the narrative lose its freshness. However, emotional expressions should be kept within reasonable bounds. If the oral account is being compiled, the compiler must have a necessary understanding of the historical context and conduct necessary verifications of key plot points, key figures, as well as time and location. At the same time, the narrative logic must be organized clearly. While literary flair is not pursued, the narrative must be engaging. As a chronicler of early PRC-Soviet relations, Shi Zhe is irreplaceable. As a bridge for high-level communications between China and the Soviet Union—translator—he directly listened to the secret, historic dialogues between the two top leaders and genuinely experienced the countless small twists and turns of historical events. This will be a history that ordinary people, who had no chance to meet leaders like Mao Zedong and Stalin, would want to read, and a must-read for researchers seeking to understand the formation process of historical decisions at that time.