Zizhi Tongjian

The Zizhi Tongjian is a comprehensive Chinese historical record compiled between 1064 and 1084, covering Chinese history from 403 BCE to 959 CE. It was created by the scholar Sima Guang and others to provide a detailed and chronological account of Chinese history, emphasizing lessons from past events. Written in clear narrative style, it synthesizes information from earlier histories, aiming to inform and guide rulers and officials about governance, morality, and statecraft through a thorough, objective chronicle of China's political, military, and cultural developments.