Description
Book SynopsisThis first major comprehensive study of Yuan Shikai in more than half a century explores the controversial life of one of the most important figures in China’s transition from empire to republic.
Trade ReviewShan provide readers with a powerful and mostly convincing reappraisal of Yuan based on both primary sources with due attention to traditional and revisionist scholarship. It will surely be a significant addition to the study of Yuan Shikai as well as modern China in the years to come.
-- Qiang Fang, professor of East Asian History, University of Minnesota Duluth * China Review International, Vol. 24, No. 2 *
Shan’s excellent biography—the first in English since 1961—challenges us to think critically about our preconceptions, and the way in which prevailing historical narratives emerge, rejecting those appealing but ultimately unhelpful binary characterizations which too often blight the telling of China’s recent past. -- Jonathan Chatwin, author of Long Peace Street: A walk in modern China * the Asian Review of Books *
Table of ContentsIntroduction
1 An Elite Clan
2 The Early Years
3 Imperial Commissioner in Korea
4 Training the First Modern Army
5 The Hundred Days
6 Governor of Shandong
7 Governor-General of Zhili and Imperial Minister
8 Dismissal and Reclusion
9 The 1911 Revolution
10 Provisional President
11 President
12 “Emperor”
Conclusion
Notes; Bibliography; Glossary; Index
