Sima Qian - Biographies of World Great Figures

Author: Xiao Benxiong
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2007-01-01
Features: Among the great historians in Chinese history, Sima Qian stands out. The Records of the Grand Historian he wrote not only pioneered the biographical style but also faithfully recorded the truth of history, allowing countless figures to embody eternal life in history. Thus, he was revered by later generations as the "Forefather of Official Histories." The Records of the Grand Historian holds immense value in the field of historiography and also occupies a in literature. Sima Qian's prose was elegant, and his narratives vivid. Every article in the Records of the Grand Historian was widely read and cherished, inviting repeated readings.
Born into a family of historians, Sima Qian initially did not aspire to be a minor Grand Historian. Later, he came to realize that the history written by historians greatly influenced future generations. Therefore, he inherited his father's legacy and began writing the Records of the Grand Historian. During this period, he defended Li Ling, who had surrendered to the Xiongnu, which angered Emperor Wu and led to his imprisonment and a death sentence. However, to save his life and complete the Records of the Grand Historian, Sima Qian volunteered to undergo castration (a punishment that rendered him infertile) to avoid execution.
Thanks to his sacrifice, the monumental Records of the Grand Historian was born and has been passed down to this day. Sima Qian's courage in defying external pressures and his unwavering commitment to historical truth are truly admirable. Through his determination and perseverance, we are able to understand the truth of history and learn from it, using it as a mirror for life. Sima Qian's Records of the Grand Historian has had a profound impact on later generations!