Qing Dynasty Wild History - A Hazy Backdrop of a Dynasty

Author: Meng Sen et al
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2006-12-01
Features: This book compiles dozens of historical writings that record events from the Qing Dynasty, differing from the grand narrative of Qing history found in mainstream publications. It is written in a straightforward and concise manner, covering everything from obscure anecdotes to secret court records, trivial external accounts, or casual notes. The focus is on the oral traditions and lesser-known stories that official histories either omit or dare not record. It narrates the rise of the Jurchen people from the Jianzhou region to their dominance over the Central Plains, documents historical events such as the literary inquisitions during the reigns of Kangxi, Yongzheng, and Qianlong, and the Taiping Rebellion. It reveals the lesser-known aspects of historical figures, from the likes of Nurhaci, Dorgon, Kangxi, Yongzheng, Qianlong, Cixi, Guangxu, Zeng Guofan, Li Hongzhang, and Zhang Zhidong, to reformers, revolutionaries, wandering knights, hermits, and even commoners. The book also includes insights from renowned scholars such as Meng Sen, Gu Hongming, and Liang Qichao, allowing modern readers to lift the veil of official history and witness the diverse social realities of the last feudal dynasty.