A History of the Chinese Economy (Volumes 1 and 2)

Author: Zhu Bokang Shi Zhengkang
Publisher:
Publishing Date: 2005-09-01
Features: This book discusses the history of China's economic development, spanning from ancient times to the eve of the founding of the People's Republic of China. Its predecessor was A Comprehensive History of Chinese Economy, published in two volumes by the Social Sciences Academic Press in May 1995. It has been over a decade since its publication. Based on the original book, the authors have made revisions and additions: first, removing some repetitive content across chapters and less important or overly lengthy citations; second, adding more content on modern economic history to address the previously inadequate coverage of this period; and third, rewriting certain sections with new data and perspectives. However, the fundamental purpose and viewpoints of the book remain unchanged, still emphasizing the historical context of China's economic development, striving to authentically recreate the historical landscape of the emergence, growth, and evolution of various economic components, exploring the causal relationships among them, as well as the mutual influences and connections between the economy and politics, culture, society, military, law, and religion. It reveals the patterns of China's economic prosperity and decline, as well as the characteristics of institutional evolution. The book is well-supported by solid evidence, relies on reliable historical data, and presents a natural and smooth narrative with concise and vivid language. It provides ample historical materials while minimizing conclusions, aiming to allow readers to engage with the facts and draw their own insights. Therefore, it serves as an excellent textbook and reference for postgraduate students in relevant fields at universities, as well as a valuable resource for economic professionals seeking to learn about or study the history of China's economy.