Great Learning

This book showcases the rich and fascinating details of society in southwestern China during the late Qing Dynasty, including the daily travels of caravan teams and porters, the attire of officials, the scenery along the routes and the residents of various ethnic groups, the lifestyles of affluent families, and the bustling markets of commercial cities. It also introduces the daily interactions between Chinese and French officials, making it a research work quite close to life. Through the enthusiastic observations and records of the exploration team, as well as the author's detailed textual research, readers can catch a glimpse of the peaceful yet lively social landscape of the southwestern region.The unique geographical environment of the southwestern region has shaped its distinctive regional characteristics, and the long period of relative peace has allowed it to make a smooth transition towards modernization. In reprinting "e;new maps and books"e; translated in southeastern regions, developing handicrafts, commerce, and modern transportation, opening commercial ports on its own initiative, safeguarding economic rights, and improving urban construction, the southwestern region has kept pace with others. The author emphasizes that the history described in this book differs from the general history of the late Qing Dynasty. Although the southwestern region also bore the pressure from imperialist powers such as Britain and France, local officials and civilians actively sought their own development. Ultimately, they not only safeguarded their economic rights but also promoted the prosperity of the socio-economy. It can be said that this is an example of the benign progress of traditional Chinese society under the baptism of modern civilization.