Zizhi Tongjian

Quick Facts: Who was Zizhi Tongjian?

Subject:

Zizhi Tongjian

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A monumental Chinese chronicle covering 403 BC to 959 AD, spanning 16 dynasties.

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2Day Chrono-Wiki & Primary Historical Archives

Origins & Early Life

The Zizhi Tongjian is a chronicle published in 1084 during the Northern Song dynasty. It provides a record of Chinese history from 403 BC to 959 AD, covering 16 dynasties and spanning almost 1400 years. The main text is arranged into 294 scrolls (Chinese: 卷; pinyin: juàn), each equivalent to a chapter—totaling around 3 million Chinese characters.

Career & Major Achievements

In 1065, Emperor Yingzong of Song commissioned his official, Sima Guang (1019–1086), to lead a project to compile a universal history of China, and granted him funding and the authority to appoint his own staff. His team took 19 years to complete the work and in 1084 it was presented to Emperor Yingzong's successor Emperor Shenzong of Song.

Enduring Legacy & Impact

It was well-received and has proved to be immensely influential among both scholars and the general public. Endymion Wilkinson regards it as reference quality: "It had an enormous influence on later Chinese historical writing, either directly or through its many abbreviations, continuations, and adaptations.

Chronological Milestones & Life Events

1. 1065: 1065 Milestone — In 1065, Emperor Yingzong of Song commissioned his official, Sima Guang (1019–1086), to lead a project to compile a universal history of China, and granted him funding and the authority to appoint his own staff.
2. 1084: 1084 Milestone — The Zizhi Tongjian is a chronicle published in 1084 during the Northern Song dynasty.
3. 1400: 1400 Milestone — It provides a record of Chinese history from 403 BC to 959 AD, covering 16 dynasties and spanning almost 1400 years.

Notable Quotes by Zizhi Tongjian

“It had an enormous influence on later Chinese historical writing, either directly or through its many abbreviations, continuations, and adaptations.”

Historical Fact-Check Quiz: Zizhi Tongjian

True or False: “The Zizhi Tongjian was compiled over a period of approximately 1400 years of history.”

Answer (TRUE ⭕): The chronicle covers the period from 403 BC to 959 AD, which spans nearly 1400 years of recorded Chinese history.

Contemporary Figures & Related Historical Timelines

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• Li Qingzhao — Historical peer (Born in 1084) (1084): Master poet of the Song Dynasty, celebrated for her lyrical genius and emotional depth.
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• Sima Guang — Historical peer (Born in 1019) (1019): Monumental Song Dynasty scholar, author of the Zizhi Tongjian.
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• Henry V, Holy Roman Emperor — Historical peer (Born in 1086) (1086): King of Germany and Holy Roman Emperor, last of the Salian dynasty.

Frequently Asked Questions about Zizhi Tongjian