Overview

Patterns of Modern Chinese History offers a broad narrative of the period starting with the Qing dynasty (1644-1912) to the present. Providing in-depth coverage of modern Chinese history, this introductory text combines proven pedagogical features, a fluid narrative, and the latest scholarship to examine large patterns and their origins, interactions, and adaptations. Its versatile organization accommodates both chronological and thematic approaches, as well as different curricula. The narrative begins with an introductory Part that examines the origins and development of imperial China through the end of the Ming dynasty. Beginning at the height of imperial China's wealth and power, the second Part traces it through its downward spiral and ultimate demise, and following its revolutions, civil wars, invasions, radical political interlude, and rise once again to world prominence.

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9780199946457

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Reviews

This is a textbook on modern Chinese history for twenty-first century classrooms. It is focused and accessible and based on the most up-to-date scholarship. It provides a complex and sophisticated understanding using rich and diverse historical examples and sources and covers a wide range of topics well. The text does an excellent job of covering the vast and complex history of China's modern transitions through specific and lively examples that encourage students to place themselves in the tumultuous years of China's tradition to modernity. At the same time, the author's historiographical approach greatly facilitates students' understanding of the broad, long-term trends in modern Chinese history, and the contradictions and complexity contained therein. - Robert Cliver, Humboldt State University Patterns of Modern Chinese History has a number of strengths, including a fluid narrative style. It also has the advantage of incorporating the most recent research in the field. For example, the discussion of the Qing reflects the important work of scholars who have pioneered The New Qing History and who have dramatically improved our understanding of the manner in which the Qing ruling elite perceived themselves. It also reflects recent scholarship that places China in the larger context of world history. This helps connect China to larger trends in world history and makes the study of Chinese history relevant those of other parts of the world. -Peter Worthing, Texas Christian University The author's frequent use of historical figures gives vitality to the narrative. The chapters have an energetic quality that pulls the reader along. -Margaret B. Denning, Slippery Rock University

Author Information

Charles A. Desnoyers is Professor of History and Director of Asian Studies at La Salle University. His books include Patterns of World History, Second Edition (OUP, 2014), coauthored with Peter von Sivers and George B. Stow, and A Journey to the East: Li Gui's ""A New Account of a Trip Around the Globe"" (2004).

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