Records of the Grand Historian (Shiji)

The "Records of the Grand Historian" (Shiji), written by Sima Qian around 94 BCE, is a comprehensive Chinese historical text that covers over two thousand years, from the earliest legends to the Han Dynasty. It combines chronological history, biographies, and cultural insights, serving as a foundational work for Chinese historiography. The Shiji is valued for its detailed storytelling, objective reporting, and literary style, providing readers with an in-depth understanding of China's history, rulers, and societal developments during this extensive period.