Mao Zedong studied history this way and commented on history this way.

Author: Sheng Xunchang, Ou Weiwei, Sheng Yanghong
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2005-07-01
Features: "Read ten thousand books, travel ten thousand miles." Mao Zedong read history by commenting on it, emphasizing its appropriate application. Throughout his life, he traveled extensively across China. After the liberation, he always carried a Chinese map with him, planning routes and orientations; at every meeting, he would consult the local library for a vast number of books; upon arriving in a new place, he would study local chronicles and historical books related to the region, engaging in heartfelt conversations and emotional exchanges with locals. This was also a unique way of reading history and a method for him to continuously deepen his understanding of it. Although many of Mao Zedong's comments on history were brief and even casual remarks from daily life, they reflected how this historical figure applied history with precision. "Strong, earnest, and ever-renewing brilliance." This was the cultural value he created through his interpretation and study of history. Mao Zedong's views and methods on commenting on history were also a form of knowledge. "Observing the past and present in an instant, encompassing the world in a moment." It was rare for a national leader, both ancient and modern, to approach the study of history with such seriousness yet grace, solemnity yet humor, and effortless eloquence that was easily understood and readily accepted by the people.