The Qing dynasty (1636-1912)-a crucial bridge between "traditional" and "modern" China-was remarkable for its expansiveness and cultural sophistication. This engaging and insightful history of Qing culture and society traces the complex interaction between the Inner Asian traditions of the Manchus, who conquered China in 1644, and indigenous Chinese cultural traditions. Setting Qing dynasty culture in historical and global perspective, noted historian Richard J. Smith offers a systematic discussion of topics such as language, philosophy, religion, art, literature and social customs. Nuanced and wide-ranging, his authoritative book provides an essential introduction to late imperial Chinese culture and society. | The Qing Dynasty and Traditional Chinese Culture by Richard J. Smith, Paperback | Indigo Chapters