The General Theory of China's Genealogy

This book offers the first comprehensive and systematic introduction to the origins and development of China’s genealogy, as well as its fundamental role in eugenics, ethics, politics and culture throughout China’s history. This book is divided into two parts: chronological research and thematic research. The first part explains the definition, origin, birth, development, transformation, optimization, popularization and contemporary status of China’s genealogy, while the second addresses its styles, content, quantity, family names, format and value, illustrations, functions and other related issues. The book, for the first time in China’s genealogy, proposes several new concepts and perspectives, such as dividing the history of China’s genealogy into seven stages; redefining genealogy; and analyses of the transformation, popularization and value of China’s genealogy. Given its scope, the book offers a groundbreaking and authoritative resource for a broad readership.

About the Author

​Heming Wang is Director of the Institute of Historical Documents at Shanghai Library and an award-winning Chinese genealogist. He is the author of more than 10 books, including The General Theory of China’s Genealogy , A History of China’s Genealogy , and Revealing China’s Genealogical Culture .