E-grāmata: Social Continuity and Rupture in Rural China II: The External Dynamics of the Huizhou Hyper-stability Structure

"Focusing on social structure and local governance in Huizhou, China, this two-volume set examines the persistence of the patriarchal system, the maintenance of social stability, and the functioning of interregional networks in pre-modern China. From thesixteenth century to the first half of the twentieth century, Huizhou, a historic region in present-day Anhui Province in China, was characterised by long-term social stability and prosperity. Even during times of war and unrest, Huizhou was able to quickly restore order. This study explores the reasons for this stability and its significant relevance and implications for contemporary society. Based on the author's previous research and detailed analysis of historical materials such as local gazetteers, genealogies, contracts, inscriptions, archives, etc., the book examines the internal and external reasons for Huizhou's "hyper" social stability over the past four centuries. It offers in-depth and novel insights into the characteristics of Huizhou society and the mechanisms behind its internal structure. Through case studies of Huizhou's rural areas, the book reveals the patterns of autonomy in the countryside. The set will appeal to scholars and students of Chinese history, social and economic history of modern China, as well as readers interested in China's transition to modernity"--

As the second volume of a two-volume set that examines the distinctive social structure and governance of Huizhou, China, this book focuses on the external factors that influence and renew social functioning.

From the sixteenth century to the first half of the twentieth century, Huizhou, a historic region in what is now Anhui Province in China, was characterized by longterm social stability and prosperity. Even during times of war and unrest, Huizhou was able to quickly restore order. This two-volume study explores the reasons for this stability and its relevance and implications for contemporary society. In this second volume, the author examines a group of ‘outsiders’ to Huizhou society, who conducted business outside the region while maintaining their hometown and linking their social networks from both urban and rural Huizhou. The book discusses how local tradition and rural governance were sustained through wars and social unrest. It also illustrates how a new, modernized order was re-established after the devastation of war and communist reform in the twentieth century.

The title will appeal to scholars and students of Chinese history, the social and economic history of modern China, and readers interested in China’s transition to modernity.

As the second volume of a two-volume set that examines the distinctive social structure and governance of Huizhou, China, this book focuses on the external factors that influence and renew social functioning.