China at War

This reference for students and general readers in high school and up covers China's 4,500 years of recorded military history, from the Chinese perspective. International contributors cover areas including strategy, sovereignty, national defense, domestic security, and technology, as well as key events, people, places, and decisions. The reference explores the ways in which the Chinese view of war is different from the Western approach to war, looking at classics of military strategy and differences in strategic decision-making. There is also material on the structure of the Chinese military, inner circles of the Chinese military throughout history, and the impact of various wars on the country's economy, politics, and culture. A 15-page introduction surveys the entire military history of the country. Other features are a detailed chronology, a glossary, and lists of dynasties and governments, along with b&w historical photos and illustrations. Li teaches history at the University of Oklahoma. Annotation c2012 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)

Xiaobing Li is professor and chair of the Department of History and Geography and director of the Western Pacific Institute at the University of Central Oklahoma, Edmond, OK.