'As a synthesis of information, some of which was previously not easily available, the book is valuable to scholars and undergraduates alike.' Lillian Craig Harris, Pacific Review 'a textbook that provides solid grounding in the economic and social context that shaped modern China's political history ... The chapters are clearly written and generous in their presentation of factual data. This book meets a need long felt by all those who would go beyond political and diplomatic events in their teaching of modern Chinese history to undergraduates.' Ellis Tinios, University of Leeds, History No. 244, April '90 'Eastman's extensive knowledge will certainly benefit both Chinese and foreign students ... it is clear that this work, with its coherent content and interpretative style, is more than just another general textbook of modern Chinese history, and readers will no doubt find it to be an inspiration for some time to come.' Hon-Ming Yip, China Quarterly