A Concise History of China [antikvár]

INTRODUCTION This Concise History of China was written by the authors in consultation with the Chinese Historical Society. China is a country with a very early civilization and a long and rich history. The purpose of this book is to give a brief introduction to her history and to outline the development of Chinese society. The book is in three parts: early, modern and contemporary periods. Like all other peoples, the Chinese have passed through primitive commune, slave and feudal systems. The development of feudal society in China was a slow and protracted process, the feudal landlord class maintaining itself by extremely ruthless exploitation and oppression of the peasantry. Nevertheless, society did progress, thanks to the continual revolutionary struggles waged by the Chinese peasants. The three large-scale peasant uprisings at the end of the Qin, Sui and Yuan dynasties gave a powerful Impetus to the development of the productive forces of society. The Han, Tang and Ming dynasties with their mighty national power and brilliant culture rose on this foundation. Chinese history testifies to the glorious revolutionary traditions of the Chinese people and their splendid historical heritage. Britain launched the Opium War against China in 1840, and from that time on imperialist forces made continuous inroads into China. Working hand in glove with Chinese