Personal Library -- The Strategies of the Warring States

Author: (Western Han) Liu Xiang compiled
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2004-07-01
Features: The War States Strategy, a unique national history compiled by the Han scholar Liu Xiang from the writings of strategists during the Warring States period, records the wise words and sagely insights of these strategists. They cited references extensively, demonstrated sharp wit, and to some extent influenced the rise and fall of feudal states and the course of history. It fully showcases the high level of linguistic and strategic prowess achieved by ancient sages, brimming with life wisdom that leaves modern readers in awe and possesses a unique artistic charm. The War States Strategy extensively documents the activities of advisors and strategists from various states. These advisors and strategists were "highly talented and outstanding scholars who measured the capabilities of their rulers, proposed unconventional strategies and brilliant insights, turning danger into safety and transforming ruin into existence." This activity itself was a significant historical event. It reflects the sharp and complex contradictions and struggles between states and political groups during the Warring States period, serving as invaluable material for studying the history of that era. Compared to Records of the Grand Historian, The War States Strategy ultimately gathers a vast amount of discourse from the Warring States people, where the Warring States people speak of the Warring States period, preserving many original sources. Although The War States Strategy certainly contains trial speeches or imitations by wandering scholars practicing rhetoric, to gain the trust of feudal rulers, these wandering scholars had to have a sufficient understanding of the contemporary history in their fabricated speeches of persuasion and must cite certain historical facts as evidence. Most of these historical facts are also credible.