The Earliest China

The Earliest China is the first archaeological book in China to translate into the dominant language of the world on the origin of Chinese ancient civilization in the Central Plains and the study of Xia dynastic culture. It focuses on the interpretation of the rise and development of the ancient civilization that initially appeared in the Central Plain of China and even in Eastern Asia. The book contents include abundant manifestations of the first flourishing civilization, especially at the Erlitou site along the Yi and Luo Rivers, characteristic of ultra-large capital city, palace buildings, elaborate bronze vessels, and stratified social organization. With a global perspective, it further compares with other significant civilizations in the world and points out cultural communications between the early China and other external cultures in the Bronze Age.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 250 pages
Publication date: 11 November 2022
Publisher: Springer Verlag, Singapore

“The Earliest China” stands as a groundbreaking archaeological work in China, making its mark as the first to be translated into the dominant language of the world, shedding light on the origins of Chinese ancient civilization in the Central Plains and delving into the study of the Xia dynastic culture. This remarkable book captivates readers across the globe, showcasing the remarkable achievements in the study of the formation of early states in China. Moreover, it stands as the first English translation monograph on the birth history of the first dynasty of the Hua-Xia nation, offering an archaeological perspective.

Drawing upon extensive archaeological data gathered through recent excavations and investigations, this book delves into the interpretation of the rise and development of ancient civilizations that initially emerged in the Central Plain of China and even in Eastern Asia. Within its pages, one finds abundant manifestations of the first flourishing civilization, particularly at the Erlitou site along the Yi and Luo Rivers. This civilization is characterized by the presence of ultra-large capital cities, magnificent palace buildings, intricately crafted bronze vessels, and a well-structured social organization.

By combining previous literature and original insights, the author of this book endeavors to further elucidate the origins of the earliest China, a royal-powered and vast state that emerged four thousand years ago. Through a comprehensive analysis of the ancient civilization preceding the Shang Dynasty, the author offers a fresh perspective, distinct from traditional historical narratives. With a global outlook, the author also compares the early China with other significant civilizations worldwide and highlights cultural exchanges between the early China and external cultures during the Bronze Age.

As a result, “The Earliest China”—the English translated version—holds immense value for foreign scholars and sinologists alike. It serves as a valuable resource for those seeking to deepen their understanding of Chinese history and culture, offering a comprehensive and insightful exploration of the early stages of human civilization in China.

Weight: 409g
Dimension: 235 x 155 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9789811663895
Edition number: 1st ed. 2022