Old Book of Tang

The Old Book of Tang is a historical text completed in 945 CE that chronicles the Tang Dynasty of China from 618-907 CE. The work spans 200 chapters and was commissioned by the Later Jin dynasty ruler. The text follows traditional Chinese historical writing formats, containing basic annals of emperors, tables, treatises on various subjects, and biographies of notable figures. Liu Xu served as the primary editor and compiler, drawing from court documents and earlier historical records to create this comprehensive dynastic history. The Old Book of Tang documents administrative systems, cultural developments, foreign relations, and key political events during the Tang period. It exists alongside a revised version called the New Book of Tang, though scholars consider both texts essential primary sources. As one of China's Standard Histories, this text represents an official narrative of Tang dynasty power structures and governance, while offering insights into how subsequent rulers wanted the Tang era to be remembered and understood.

Limited English-language reader reviews exist for the Old Book of Tang, as it remains primarily studied by Chinese history scholars and has not been fully translated to English. Most reviews come from academic sources and Chinese literature forums. Readers appreciate: - Detailed biographical accounts of Tang Dynasty officials - Comprehensive coverage of government institutions - Clear chronological organization - Preservation of original source materials Common criticisms: - Dense writing style makes casual reading difficult - Lack of complete English translations - Some historical inaccuracies compared to archeological findings - Bias in portrayal of certain emperors and officials No ratings available on Goodreads or Amazon due to limited English translations and distribution. The book is mainly referenced in university libraries and academic databases. Chinese-language forums on Douban.com give it an average rating of 4.2/5 based on historical significance, though many note it requires significant background knowledge to fully understand.

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📚 The Old Book of Tang was compiled over 17 years, from 941 to 945 AD, making it one of the most extensive historical projects of its time. 🏰 The book documents the rise and fall of over 1,500 Tang Dynasty officials and their families, preserving detailed genealogical records that historians still reference today. 👑 Liu Xu, the chief editor, was given unprecedented access to imperial archives by the Later Jin Emperor, but died before the book's completion in 945 AD. 📖 At 200 chapters long, it remains one of the largest of China's Twenty-Four Histories and includes entire sections dedicated to music, literature, and foreign relations. 🗺️ The work contains valuable information about the Silk Road trade routes and diplomatic relations with over 70 foreign countries during the Tang Dynasty period.