China Since 1945 - Witness History Series

This volume in the "Witness History" series is an examination of the history of China from 1945 to modern times, through a mixture of narrative and analysis of the key issues involved. It is designed to introduce readers to a wide range of contemporary sources and aims to encourage them in the handling and assessment of original historical material.;A brief introduction to imperial China and its collapse in 1911 is given, and the period when the GMD (Nationalist Party) was in government is examined with an analysis of the reasons why it was defeated by the Chinese Communist Party.;The author assesses the transformation of China into a Communist state, examining the impact of the Cultural Revolution. He also looks at the reforms introduced since Mao's death, including a more liberal economic system and greater openness with the outside world.;There is a section of biographies of leading figures involved, a glossary, a list of important dates, a note on the sources used, a further reading list and an index. The book is illustrated with photographs, cartoons, posters and maps.