Family of Centuries -- Zhang Boling

Author: Hou Jie, Qin Fang
Publisher:
Publishing Date: Not available
Features: This book uniquely extends its narrative focus to the Zhang family, represented by figures such as Mr. Zhang Boling and Mr. Zhang Pengchun, breaking away from the traditional scope of previous works that merely examined Mr. Zhang Boling's personal experiences and spirit. As the book demonstrates, this is an extraordinary family that made indelible contributions in various fields, including education, theater, sports, religion, charity, diplomacy, and Sino-Western cultural exchange. Mr. Zhang Boling's life was full of. To realize his ideal of saving the nation through education, he willingly abandoned his promising career as a naval officer and devoted himself to the Yan family academy, embarking on a long journey in modern education. To advance education, he traveled extensively to Japan and modern powers like Europe and America, drawing on experiences and methods to promote educational development. After founding Nankai Middle School in 1904, he poured his heart and soul into it for fifty years, subsequently establishing Nankai University, Nankai Girls' High School, Nankai Primary School, and Chongqing Nankai Middle School. Mr. Zhang Boling advocated for holistic student development, encouraging them to excel in learning while actively participating in sports and theatrical performances, earning him titles such as "Father of Chinese Drama." He was resolute and unyielding. When Nankai was ruthlessly bombed and destroyed by Japanese militarists, this elderly man in his sixties proudly declared, "The enemy's bombing of Nankai may destroy its physical structures, but its spirit will only grow stronger in the face of this setback." Today, the Nankai Middle School and Nankai University he founded for the nation and its people continue to thrive, and his spirit is passed down through generations at Nankai. Zhang Boling's younger brother, Zhang Pengchun, was also a distinguished playwright, diplomat, and educator, no less remarkable than his brother. He once said, "When an actor performs on stage, they should embody life rather than just acting a play." Zhang Pengchun perfectly embodied this principle. He used life as his stage, studying in the United States during the Boxer Rebellion, dedicating himself to education, excelling in debate, and delving into theater. Upon returning to China, he guided the Nankai New Drama Troupe, becoming its soul, and was hailed as one of the "Founders of Northern Drama." Following his brother's lead, he contributed to the development of Nankai Middle School, actively promoted the establishment of Nankai University, and became a key figure in the early days of Tsinghua University, founding two world-renowned institutions with a single person. In the 1930s, he served as the director of Mei Lanfang's troupe on its visit to the United States and the Soviet Union, making significant contributions to introducing Chinese cultural treasures to the world. After the outbreak of the War of Resistance, he traveled to Europe and America, vigorously promoting China's anti-war policies, actively seeking international support, and pushing for the U.S. government to abrogate the Sino-Japanese Commercial Treaty. After the war, he became active on the United Nations stage, becoming one of the drafters of the "Universal Declaration of Human Rights." After Zhang Boling and Zhang Pengchun passed away, their descendants—such as Xilu, Xiyang, Xize, Xinyue, and their grandchildren— the Zhang family's patriotic spirit and perseverance. To this day, many Zhang family members continue to contribute their talents and wisdom in various fields. Exploring the Zhang family, we can glimpse the rise and fall of modern Chinese history and contemporary society through the tumultuous lives of generations of Zhang family members. In terms of historical source collection and utilization, the book also excels. The authors not only used a wealth of newspaper documents and previous research but also gathered a collection of valuable English materials from Hong Kong, Taiwan, and overseas, including some unpublished sources. Additionally, Zhang Boling's grandson, Mr. Zhang Yuanlong, the President of the Tianjin Chamber of Commerce, provided vivid oral accounts and substantial written materials for the book. Notably, the book also pays special attention to the connection between Mr. Zhang Boling's Christian faith and his educational philosophy. All of this helps the book transcend the dryness of typical academic works, bringing vivid characters to life and captivating readers with compelling narratives. It can be said that "A Century of a Family—Zhang Boling" is not only a scholarly work of high academic value but also an engaging and readable biography. Exploring the Zhang family's century-long legacy, you will not only be spiritually moved but also deeply inspired by life.