Biographies of Figures from the Republic of China. Volume 12

Author: Zhu Xinqun Lou Xiangge
Publisher:
Publishing Date: 2005-09-01
Features: In August 1972, we accepted the task of compiling A History of the Republic of China. We immediately held a symposium to discuss it. After repeated deliberations, everyone agreed that: it was not only necessary but also possible to explain the rise and fall of the last feudal dynasty in China—the Republic of China—using Marxist viewpoints. Based on this understanding, we proposed the following preliminary plan:
1. When compiling A History of the Republic of China, it is essential to adhere to Marxism as the guiding principle and absolutely avoid imitating the traditional methods of historical writing in China's feudal era.
2. To write a book titled A History of the Republic of China, we proposed dividing it into three volumes:
- Volume I: The Founding of the Republic of China (1905–1912)
- Volume II: The Rule of the Beiyang Government (1912–1927)
- Volume III: The Rule of the Nationalist Government (1927–1949)
3. To compile three types of materials:
- Type 1: A Chronology of Major Events in the Republic of China
- Type 2: Biographical Dictionary of the Republic of China
- Type 3: Politics, Economy, and Culture of the Republic of China (Thematic Materials)
Regarding the Biographical Dictionary, approximately 1,000 people would require biographies, about 4,000 names would be included in the dictionary, and several additional biographical tables were also planned. We had no experience in writing biographies and only proposed several requirements:
1. To adhere to Marxism as the guiding principle. When writing a biography, one must thoroughly gather materials and conduct serious research. Only after forming a comprehensive understanding of a person's life, making specific judgments about their major actions, and being confident that these concepts and judgments align with objective historical facts, should one begin writing.
2. To use narrative style, not a critical biography. The correct viewpoint should be presented through concrete facts. Avoid excessive commentary detached from factual material. The selection, detail, and wording of facts must be carefully considered to ensure appropriateness.
3. To ensure authenticity and credibility. The facts in the biography must be repeatedly verified, with some requiring further investigation, to ensure accuracy. If doubts cannot be resolved, it is better to omit or remain uncertain rather than spread misinformation.
4. To reflect a person's full picture while highlighting key aspects. A biography should accurately present a person's family background, education, major experiences, and actions. However, it should not be written as a simple chronological account or chronology. Focus on one or two essential events that best reveal the essence, describing them in detail and vividly, while leaving the rest brief.
5. To write in vernacular Chinese, striving for conciseness. Avoid unnecessary quotations, and if quotations are used, cite their sources. Each biography should be approximately 2,000 to 3,000 words, not excessively long.
6. To include a list of major reference materials at the end of the draft.