The Complete History of China

by J.A.G. Roberts

An account of China's rise to world power status, this is a useful guide for anyone who wants to understand this dynamic society. The study explores China's entire history, from prehistoric times to the present day. Some aspects of China's history are hotly debated, but this book offers a path through these conflicting views on the development of China throughout history. It reveals the immense riches and sophistication of ancient China, and banishes the view of Chinese history as a long, repetitive catalogue of one dynasty following another. In drawing together the broad themes of political, social, economic, and cultural history, the dramatic development of one of the world's great civilizations is brought to life.

Genres: History, China, Nonfiction, Asia

500 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2003

Reviews

[Scott Martin]

Perhaps nothing is quite so challenging as to write a single volume history of a country as old and dynamic as China. Roberts attempts to do that in the work. It is not a pure chronological historical work, but it is arranged that way. He describes key events, dynasties, personnel, and significant social/economic/political actions. This work does bring in viewpoints of other historians, but it can't get too detailed, less this work turn into a multi/multi volume set. I would consider this book for a college history class, to offer some initial overview prior to the start of a discussion. The writing is not too academic or dry, but probably not a work that you will take to the beach with you. For someone with less than cursory knowledge of Chinese history, this is a starter to other areas of focus.

[Michal Paszkiewicz]

A very readable history of China. It really helps in getting a good historical background in Chinese culture, although I feel that the book has had to make too many concessions to shorten so many millenia of history into one book. I no doubt will need to read more detailed books for specific dynasties to follow this up.

[Keith Putnam]

Okay, partially read.

[Anna Spark]

Does exactly what it says on the tin. Not a particularly nuanced account (not that that coulds be expected - runs from the Stone Age to Tiannamen Square in one book...), but a good basic primer on Chinese political and social history.