Shiji (Records of the Grand Historian)

The Shiji, or Records of the Grand Historian, is an influential historical text written by Sima Qian around 94 BCE in ancient China. It provides a comprehensive chronicle of Chinese history from the earliest times to the Han Dynasty, covering emperors, notable figures, events, and cultural developments. The book is notable for its detailed narratives, balanced perspectives, and inclusion of diverse sources. As a foundational work, it shaped Chinese historiography and remains an essential reference for understanding China's ancient past.