Author Description

The first book to synthesize and make available important recent research on the social and economic history of China in late Imperial and modern times, this is a much-needed supplement to existing political histories. Lloyd E. Eastman clarifies the complex and confusing facets of Chinese society while paying tribute to its extraordinary regional, social and historical diversity. He covers a wide range of topics, from population trends, family life, and popular religion, to agriculture, commerce, manufacturing, and class structure while providing a clear, cogent introduction to a fascinating culture.