Biography of Duan Qirui

Author: Hu Xiao (Compiler)
Publisher:
Publishing Date: 2007-01-01
Features: In the mid-1980s of the last century, the author chose Hu Shi, a native of Anhui, as the research topic, with a focus on the study of intellectual and cultural history. By the end of 1993, after the publication of Hu Shi's Thought and Modern China, in addition to preparing materials and outlines for the sister volume The Hu Shi School and Modern China, the author began to contemplate new research directions. After a period of "searching high and low," the study of Duan Qirui gradually became clear. The reasons for choosing Duan Qirui can be summarized as follows: First, there is a sense of local identity, as Duan Hefei, Bao Luzhou, and Li Hefei are all sources of pride for Hefei natives, yet research on Duan Hefei remains relatively insufficient and undervalued. Second, as a military figure, Duan Qirui contrasts sharply with the intellectual Hu Shi, primarily involving the study of military and political history, making the research process more refreshing and exciting. Third, although the Anhui clique led by Duan Qirui is not as large or prominent as the Huai'an clique led by Li Hongzhang, it still has a substantial number of members and a broad influence, providing ample space and sustainability for research. Fourth, as a key area of the author's recent focus on Beiyang history, the study of Duan Qirui and the Anhui clique serves as a breakthrough and lays the foundation. Duan's Genealogy is a of the author's research on Duan Qirui. It was approved by the Anhui Provincial Social Science Planning in 2003 and took several years of effort to take shape, with the intention of completing the project. Due to various constraints, the author lacks sufficient original materials, making the research outcomes less than ideal. Generally, the materials and content are richer during Duan Qirui's period as commander-in-chief and head of government, while those from his youth and retirement periods are more scarce and sparse. If there is an opportunity for a second edition in the future, the author will strive to supplement and revise it based on newly discovered materials. This year marks the 70th anniversary of Duan Qirui's death. The rushed release of this post-1949 genealogy is merely a token of remembrance, but more importantly, it aims to spark further discussion and research.