In China, Matteo Ricci is known for his efforts in promoting mutual understanding. Sadly, his arrival to Macau was the result of the most shameful aspect of Europe's global trade: slavery.
The Hongwu Emperor, founder of the Ming Dynasty, came to power amid violence. His reign was yet fragile in 1372 when he was gifted two conjoined melons as a symbol of Heaven's blessing. But much suffering would befall those around him.
The Battle of the Talas River is often presented as a major watershed in world history, the “high water mark” of Chinese power. On either the fourth or fifth day of the fight, the battle turned — on treachery and betrayal.
"Sun and moon have no light left, earth is dark; / Our women's world is sunk so deep, who can help us? / ... Unbinding my feet I clean out a thousand years of poison, / With heated heart arouse all women's spirits."
In 1971, amid growing threats from the Soviet Union, both the U.S. and the People's Republic of China were interested in a strategic alliance. But before any public gestures could be made, both sides had to make sure, privately, the other was receptive.
While the reformers themselves all ended up exiled, in prison, or dead, many of their policies were eventually taken up by the very person who crushed them.
Despite his unorthodox beliefs, Hong Xiuquan’s power was undeniable. The Taiping at its peak controlled almost a third of China’s heartland, and seemed poised to topple the Qing dynasty.
Chinese Lives is a weekly series that looks at notable figures from all eras of Chinese history.
In the early part of the previous century, China and its people were ravenous for ideas from outside their borders. One scholar traveled the globe, only understanding his own country when he got to the other side of the world.