Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the life and achievements of Zuo Zongtang, highlighting his contributions to the Qing dynasty during a tumultuous period, particularly focusing on his military campaigns and administrative reforms in Xinjiang and the northwest region of China [3][5][31]. Group 1: Military Campaigns and Strategies - Zuo Zongtang was appointed as the special commissioner for Xinjiang military affairs in 1875, tasked with recovering territories lost to the Aghu Ba forces [6]. - He employed a strategic approach of "first north, then south" and "slow advance, quick battle," leading to decisive victories in the region [6][10]. - The Qing army achieved a significant victory in Xinjiang by 1877, culminating in the recovery of the Ili region through the Treaty of Ili with Russia [10]. Group 2: Administrative Reforms and Industrialization - Zuo Zongtang initiated the establishment of the Lanzhou Machinery Weaving Bureau, marking a significant step in the modernization of the northwest region and integrating industrialization into border defense strategies [12][15]. - The Lanzhou Machinery Weaving Bureau faced challenges due to local conditions, but it represented an important attempt to bolster local production and military supply [14][18]. - His advocacy for administrative reforms led to the establishment of the Xinjiang province in 1884, laying the groundwork for modern administrative structures in the region [16]. Group 3: Personal Life and Legacy - Zuo Zongtang was known for his frugality and dedication to duty, despite suffering from various health issues in his later years [19][20]. - His political stance often put him at odds with contemporaries like Li Hongzhang, particularly regarding military funding and defense strategies [20][27]. - Zuo Zongtang passed away on September 5, 1885, and was posthumously honored with the title "Wenxiang," reflecting the recognition of his contributions to the Qing dynasty [29][31].

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the concepts of "elastic society" and "ultra-stable structure" to explain the long-term stability and stagnation of traditional Chinese society, highlighting their differences in perspective, methodology, and conclusions [1][4]. Group 1: Elastic Society - The "elastic society" theory defines traditional Chinese society as having a "premature yet immature" elastic structure, capable of absorbing transformative energy through its diverse economic base and complex control systems, but unable to break free from established frameworks [1][3]. - This theory emphasizes the resilience of the multi-faceted structure, where new and old factors coexist, showcasing class conflicts and interactions between local gentry and state power, as well as the interplay of economic drivers and extra-economic forces [1][3]. - The theory also points out that while there are gradual internal adjustments, the society remains locked within its original structure, unable to achieve a fundamental transformation [4][22]. Group 2: Ultra-Stable Structure - The "ultra-stable structure" concept posits that traditional Chinese society, from the Qin to the Qing dynasties, exhibited a system characterized by periodic oscillations, where upheavals like dynastic changes and peasant uprisings occurred frequently but did not disrupt the deep structural stability [1][3]. - This structure is marked by a self-repair mechanism, where each upheaval leads to a restoration of the old political, economic, and ideological order, indicating a resistance to fundamental change [3][4]. - The theory highlights the rigidity of the system, where ideological and technological stagnation, along with policies that suppress commercial capital accumulation, hinder social progress [3][4]. Group 3: Comparison of Theories - Both theories differ in their historical explanatory focus, with the "elastic society" emphasizing micro-level resilience and adaptability, while the "ultra-stable structure" underscores macro-level systemic rigidity [4][5]. - The theories are complementary, with the "elastic society" providing a micro-foundation for the "ultra-stable structure," illustrating the tension between dynamic adjustments and systemic locks [4][5]. - The "elastic society" reveals the contradictions of absorbing transformative energy while being constrained by traditional norms, while the "ultra-stable structure" explains the deep mechanisms resisting qualitative change [4][5]. Group 4: Urban Types and Historical Context - The article contrasts two types of cities: "Su-Hang" and "Kaifeng," interpreting them through the lenses of the two theories, where "Su-Hang" embodies characteristics of an elastic society and "Kaifeng" exemplifies an ultra-stable structure [6][7]. - "Su-Hang" cities experienced economic expansion and a flexible interaction between local autonomy and central authority, while "Kaifeng" cities maintained a singular economic structure, lacking elasticity and remaining dependent on agricultural foundations [6][7]. - The geographical and historical contexts of these cities illustrate the broader dynamics of Chinese civilization, with the Jiangnan region favoring an elastic society and the Central Plains leaning towards an ultra-stable structure [7][8]. Group 5: Industrial Revolution and Response - The article discusses how the Industrial Revolution posed a challenge to the ultra-stable structure, leading to a breakdown of traditional systems through external and internal forces [11][12]. - The response to this disruption was marked by the "Self-Strengthening Movement," which emerged from the elastic society's resilience, indicating a shift towards modernization despite the constraints of the ultra-stable structure [12][14]. - The movement highlighted the tension between traditional structures and emerging capitalist dynamics, revealing the limitations of the elastic society in achieving a comprehensive transformation [21][24].

Core Viewpoint - The article emphasizes the significance of the newly revised edition of "Zeng Guofan" by Tang Minghao, highlighting its historical context and the author's extensive research over 30 years, making it a compelling read for understanding a pivotal figure in Chinese history [1][4][6]. Summary by Sections Historical Context - The late Qing Dynasty was marked by turmoil, cultural clashes, and the beginning of modern Chinese suffering, setting the stage for Zeng Guofan's impactful life [1][2]. Author's Research and Approach - Tang Minghao dedicated eight years to studying over 15 million words of Zeng Guofan's works and sought out his descendants to present an objective and detailed account of his life [4][32]. - The book is recognized for its readability and has won multiple literary awards, including the National "Eighth Five-Year" Book Award [6][7]. Zeng Guofan's Achievements - Zeng Guofan, often seen as a "fool," achieved great acclaim and was pivotal in the Self-Strengthening Movement, leading to significant advancements in China's modernization, such as building the first steamship and establishing military academies [17][18]. - His ability to identify and nurture talent was crucial, with many of his protégés, like Li Hongzhang and Zuo Zongtang, playing significant roles in late Qing governance [39][42]. Personal Insights and Legacy - The narrative reveals Zeng Guofan's personal struggles and triumphs, illustrating his growth from an ordinary scholar to a revered statesman, embodying the complexities of human character [18][25]. - The book serves as a guide for personal development, offering insights into education, management, and interpersonal relationships, making it relevant for contemporary readers [47][48]. Accessibility and Appeal - The revised edition is designed to be accessible and engaging, overcoming common barriers in historical literature, making it suitable for a wide audience [30][35]. - The book's format and presentation enhance the reading experience, making it a suitable gift or collectible [11][14].