Sima Qian

Author: Deng Xiangzi
Publisher:
Publishing Date: 2006-01-01
Features: The "Biographies of World Famous Figures" series meticulously selects 31 world-renowned figures who have influenced the progress of human civilization in the fields of science, technology, culture, art, and education. Based on historical facts and catering to the reading habits of teenagers, the series introduces the life experiences, ideals, and outstanding achievements of these globally celebrated individuals with vivid and lively, rigorous and meticulous prose. The series is carefully structured and designed with knowledge sections such as "Quotations," "Appreciation of Famous Passages," and "Chronology," accompanied by detailed historical illustrations and rich knowledge links, making the books more engaging and collectible. The Records of the Grand Historian (Shiji) marks a milestone in the history of Chinese historiography. It is a monumental work that "investigates the relationship between heaven and humanity, connects the past and the present, and forms a unique perspective," representing the invaluable contributions of Sima Qian to Chinese culture, particularly in the field of history. This renowned Chinese historian—what was his own life like? How did he accomplish such a monumental work? Dear young friends, let us shed the dust of history and see how Sima Qian, with his life and efforts, wrote the great Records of the Grand Historian.
Sima Qian (c. 145 BCE – 90 BCE), styled Zichang, was a native of Xiayang, left commandery of Fengyi (now Hancheng, Shaanxi Province). At the age of 10, he began studying ancient texts and was diligent in his learning. When encountering difficult questions, he would repeatedly ponder them until fully understanding. At the age of 20, Sima Qian set out from Chang'an to travel to various regions. Later, he returned to Chang'an and served as a Langzhong, guarding the palace gates, managing cavalry, and accompanying the Emperor on his tours. He accompanied Emperor Wu several times on his inspections, visiting many places. At the age of 35, Emperor Wu sent him as an envoy to Yunnan, Sichuan, and Guizhou, where he learned about the customs and cultures of some ethnic minorities. After his father, Sima Tan, passed away in 108 BCE (the third year of the Yuanshou era), Sima Qian succeeded him as the Grand Historian in 108 BCE. In 104 BCE (the first year of the Taichu era), he collaborated with the astronomer Tang Du to revise the "Taichu Calendar." That same year, he began compiling the Records of the Grand Historian.
In 99 BCE (the second year of the Tianhan era), Li Ling led a campaign against the Xiongnu but was defeated and surrendered, enraging Emperor Wu. Sima Qian defended Li Ling, which provoked the Emperor, leading to his arrest and imprisonment. He was later appointed as the Secretary of the Imperial Secretariat. According to the Han Dynasty's legal provisions, Sima Qian paid a fine to atone for his crime, undergoing the "castration punishment." In 96 BCE (the first year of the Taishi era), he was released from prison and appointed as the Secretary of the Imperial Secretariat, overseeing the Emperor's documents and affairs. He dedicated himself to writing the Records of the Grand Historian, completing the final drafting and revisions around the age of 55.
In addition to the Records of the Grand Historian, Sima Qian wrote eight odes, all of which are now lost, except for fragments of the Lament for the Unlucky quoted in The Compendium of Arts and Literature (Volume 30). He also wrote Letter to Ren An, documenting his experiences of imprisonment, punishment, and his determination to compile the historical records.