Biography of Mao Zedong (Illustrated Edition)

Author: (American) Triol
Publisher:
Publishing Date: 2006-01-01
Features: The original edition of this book was a bestseller in China in the early 1990s, selling 1.2 million copies. This is a newly translated full edition, based on the 1999 revised version from Stanford University. The author employs the typical narrative style of biographies, but in terms of historical source selection, background analysis, and perspective evaluation, it has been meticulously crafted with deep thought. It is a classic among hundreds of Western biographies of Mao Zedong, published in 8 languages in different countries. The book not only reflects the author's high sensitivity to historical events but also demonstrates the theoretical depth of a political science perspective. The situational analysis of the characters makes history come alive, guiding readers to appreciate the era's dilemmas and institutional mechanisms behind the "story," integrating Mao Zedong's rich emotions with his challenging theoretical creations, thereby presenting a panoramic view of the grandeur of the Chinese Revolution. The book is accompanied by numerous exquisite and valuable photographs, bringing history to life in a vivid and tangible way... This is a thoroughly researched and authoritative biography of Mao Zedong's life, enriched by a wealth of newly available materials in China in recent years. The original edition of this book was a bestseller in China in the early 1990s, and this is a newly translated full edition, based on the 1999 revised version from Stanford University. The author employs the typical narrative style of biographies, but in terms of historical source selection, background analysis, and perspective evaluation, it has been meticulously crafted with deep thought. It is a classic among hundreds of Western biographies of Mao Zedong, published in 8 languages in different countries. The book not only reflects the author's high sensitivity to historical events but also demonstrates the theoretical depth of a political science perspective. The situational analysis of the characters makes history come alive, guiding readers to appreciate the era's dilemmas and institutional mechanisms behind the "story," integrating Mao Zedong's rich emotions with his challenging theoretical creations, thereby presenting a panoramic view of the grandeur of the Chinese Revolution. The book is accompanied by numerous exquisite and valuable photographs, bringing history to life in a vivid and tangible way. Triol is a biographical genius; his authentic portrayal of Mao Zedong's image is persistently and enchantingly woven throughout the entire book. — The Houston Chronicle A distinguished work that provides an outstanding narrative explanation of the course, motivations, and major activities of China's great revolution. — John K. Fairbank Triol's exceptional talent lies in his ability to seamlessly combine scholarly research with the vibrant and elegant writing style of a journalist. — The Christian Science Monitor Understanding Mao Zedong and the events of the last century in China is indispensable. Moreover, it is a captivating work. — The Chicago Sun-Times Triol's book is consistently enjoyable to read, filled with wit, interesting observations, and examples, as powerfully demonstrated in his impressive introduction to the essence of Mao Zedong's behavior. — Steven M. Goldstein