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Mentioned in 2 episodes
The Story of China
A portrait of a civilisation and its people
Book • 2020
Michael Wood's 'The Story of China' is a sweeping narrative that combines a broad historical overview with personal stories and recent archaeological discoveries.
The book begins with China's prehistory, the early dynasties, and the roots of Chinese culture in the teachings of Confucius.
It explores significant periods such as the Renaissance of the Song dynasty, the Qing Empire in the 18th century, and the encounter with the West, including the Opium Wars and the debates of the late 19th century.
Wood also brings the story up to date with a balanced view of Mao and the emergence of Xi Jinping.
The book is enriched with stories from various economic strata, including letters from soldiers, Silk Road merchants, Buddhist travelers, and memoirs of emperors, poets, and peasants.
The book begins with China's prehistory, the early dynasties, and the roots of Chinese culture in the teachings of Confucius.
It explores significant periods such as the Renaissance of the Song dynasty, the Qing Empire in the 18th century, and the encounter with the West, including the Opium Wars and the debates of the late 19th century.
Wood also brings the story up to date with a balanced view of Mao and the emergence of Xi Jinping.
The book is enriched with stories from various economic strata, including letters from soldiers, Silk Road merchants, Buddhist travelers, and memoirs of emperors, poets, and peasants.
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Mentioned in 2 episodes
Recommended by Ellie Cawthorne as one of the books offered with a BBC History Magazine subscription.
The Glorious Revolution: everything you wanted to know
