Biographies of Figures from the Republic of China (Volume 12)

Author: Institute of Modern History, Chinese Academy of Social Sciences
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2005-09-01
Features: In August 1972, we accepted the task of compiling A History of the Republic of China. At once, we 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 Marxist guidance and absolutely avoid imitating the traditional Chinese feudal methods of historical writing.
2. To write a book titled A History of the Republic of China, it is proposed to be divided 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 biographies need to be written; about 4,000 names are to be included in the dictionary; in addition, several biographical tables are planned to be compiled. We have no experience in writing biographies, but we have preliminarily proposed the following requirements:
1. Adhere to Marxist guidance. When writing a biography, one must fully utilize materials and conduct serious research. Only when one has a comprehensive understanding of a person’s life, a concrete judgment on their major actions and words, and is confident that these concepts and judgments align with objective historical reality, can one begin writing.
2. Use narrative style, not critical biographies. The correct viewpoint should be presented through specific facts. Avoid excessive commentary detached from factual material. The selection and arrangement of facts, as well as word choice, must be carefully considered to ensure appropriateness.
3. Ensure accuracy and reliability. The facts in the biography must be repeatedly verified, with some requiring further investigation, to ensure they are correct. If there are doubts that cannot be resolved, it is better to omit or remain uncertain rather than spread misinformation.
4. Reflect the full picture of a person while highlighting key aspects. A biography should truthfully present a person’s family background, education, major experiences, and actions. However, it should not be a mere chronology or genealogy. Focus on one or two essential events that best reveal the essence, describing them in detail and vividly, while keeping the rest brief.
5. Write in vernacular Chinese, striving for conciseness. Avoid quotations unless necessary, and if used, cite the source. Each biography should be approximately 2,000 to 3,000 characters in length, not overly long.
6. Include a list of major reference materials at the end of the draft.