Private Archives of Kangxi

Author: Shengye
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2005-08-01
Features: Dive into the real and surreal mysteries of the Qing Dynasty, truly experiencing the imperial life that is either thrilling, tender, unrestrained, or filled with intrigue; get close to their inner depths, touch their beating hearts, and explore the hidden world behind the twelve emperors. Mao Zedong once remarked that Kangxi "was not only talented and visionary but also diligent in his studies." Yet, even such a remarkable emperor suffered from many unspeakable pains and carried countless unsolved mysteries: Did Kangxi die of natural causes or was he murdered? Why did he risk the stigma of "incest" by marrying his aunt as a concubine? After his beloved Empress Tong died in childbirth, why did Kangxi refuse to appoint a new empress even until his death? Why did he twice appoint and then (remove) the prince, whom he held in special affection? The "Kangxi and Qianlong" (a period of global prosperity in the 17th and 18th centuries) experienced a fiery and turbulent decline in the 19th century. Its brilliant glow was as fleeting as the setting sun, followed by a long, silent night. In this magical and tragic century, what mysteries lie hidden? The Qing Dynasty, especially the Kangxi era, holds a unique historical position among China's feudal dynasties. As a result, its founder, Aisin Gioro Xuanye (Kangxi), joined the ranks of the few outstanding emperors in ancient Chinese history. Mao Zedong highly praised Kangxi, believing that the early Qing emperors were all highly capable, especially Kangxi. Kangxi's first great contribution was securing the territory that China now possesses; his second great contribution was his united front policy; and his third remarkable achievement was his clear system of rewards and punishments for officials. However, even such a remarkable emperor suffered from many unspeakable pains and carried countless unsolved mysteries: Did Kangxi die of natural causes or was he murdered? Why did he risk the stigma of "incest" by marrying his aunt as a concubine? After his beloved Empress Tong died in childbirth, why did Kangxi refuse to appoint a new empress even until his death? Why did Kangxi twice appoint and then (remove) the prince, whom he held in special affection? We believe that this book, while providing answers and clarifications, will also help people better understand the unfathomable inner world of Emperor Kangxi and explore the hidden mysteries behind this (eternal emperor).