The Old China Still Had "Draft History of the Qing"—Where Is the New China's "History of the Republic"?

2006/2/9 16:19:05

Chinese history has one of the greatest traditions: no matter which dynasty, once political power was stabilized, there would inevitably be individuals or state-organized efforts to complete the history of the preceding dynasty. It is because of this that we can now see the so-called "Twenty-Four Histories," as well as the "Twenty-Fifth History"—the "Draft History of the Qing." Compiling history has always been a major national undertaking in Chinese history, and those who participated were the most erudite scholars of their time.

The greatest significance of this great tradition lies in a victor's respect for the history of the vanquished, and more importantly, a cultural identification. Dynasties change, but the nation and culture continue. History is history—you may describe it in your own way, but if you don't even engage in the act of description and compilation, then there is nothing to discuss. No dynasty can arise from a vacuum. Recording history is the starting point for reflecting on history. If one cannot even seriously record history, then nothing can be discussed at all.

The strong are not afraid to face history. Even during the Old China era of prolonged civil wars, massive financial and human resources were still organized to compile the "History of the Qing." Although, due to lack of time for further revision, it contained too many flaws and could only circulate in the form of a "Draft History of the Qing," this in itself proves the greatness of the endeavor—isn't the Venus de Milo also missing her arms?

In truth, discussion is meaningless; what matters is action. What must be clarified here is that the continued existence of the Republic of China in Taiwan does not in any way affect the compilation of the "History of the Republic." From a historical perspective, this is merely a remnant of the Republic of China surviving in the form of a regional separatist regime, like the Southern Ming. Of course, if one finds names like "Chronicle of Zhongzheng" objectionable, alternatives can be used. However, it would be best to respect tradition. Additionally, it must be written in classical Chinese, not in the garbage that is vernacular Chinese!