History of the Political System of China

Author: Yang Hongnian
Publisher:
Publishing Date: 2005-08-01
Features: This book is divided into three parts. The first part covers the central political system, detailing China's unique institutions such as the monarchy, prime minister, administration, supervision, and examinations in chronological order. The second part discusses the local political system, focusing on China's distinctive regional administrative divisions like prefectures, commanderies, circuits, prefectures, and counties, arranged by dynasties. Parts one and two span from the early Qin dynasty to the late Qing dynasty. The period before the Qin dynasty is too distant and thus covered briefly due to space constraints. After the Xinhai Revolution, China's political system shifted from monarchy to republic, marking a profound transformation with far-reaching impacts, warranting a dedicated third part. This is the third part, the political system of the Republic of China, which is also divided into central and local sections. The Five Powers Constitution, designed by Sun Yat-sen as the ideal political blueprint for the Republic of China, is a key focus. The Red Regime's implementation of the Chinese Soviet System in the 1930s, which lit a spark in southern China, is briefly described in a dedicated chapter of the third part. The book is based on thorough research, presents narratives in a straightforward manner, maintains rigorous arguments, and avoids empty or speculative discussions. It places greater emphasis on the evolution of institutions across different periods.