Description
Book SynopsisChina's role in the First World War has been a curiously neglected topic. This 2005 book is a full-length study of China's involvement in the conflict from perspectives of international history, using previously unknown archival materials. In this account, Professor Xu restores the China war memory into its rightful place.
Trade ReviewReview of the hardback: 'Any student of WW1 would consider this book as an essential read.' Open History
Review of the hardback: '… a fine example of the writing of international history, based on careful archival research. The argument is skilfully developed and assisted by a small section of illustrations. It puts before the reader the Chinese side of a story which is not unfamiliar but which has been slanted in the past.' The China Quarterly
Review of the hardback: 'This is an important book, helping to answer hitherto neglected questions about China's role in the Great War and the role the war played in bringing China onto a changing international stage. It is well researched and written, and deserves to be read widely.' Asian Affairs
Table of ContentsIntroduction; Part I. The Stage Is Set: 1. China's preparation for entry into the international system; 2. The rise of Chinese internationalism and the new diplomacy; Part II. China Attempts to Join the War: 3. China responses to the outbreak of war; 4. 'Using laborers as soldiers' - an alternative strategy; 5. China's formal entry into the war; Part III. The Great War in Chinese Domestic Politics and Foreign Relations: 6. The war within; 7. The 1919 Paris Peace Conference and China's search for a new world order; Conclusion.
