Core Viewpoint - The article highlights the academic contributions and legacy of Xu Zhuoyun, a prominent Chinese historian, emphasizing his significant works that laid the foundation for the study of ancient Chinese history and society [1][2]. Group 1: Academic Contributions - Xu Zhuoyun's early works, including "Ancient China in Transition," "Han Agriculture," and "Western Zhou History," established his academic reputation and are considered classics in historical scholarship [1][4]. - His approach combined rigorous methodology with innovative perspectives, such as using sociological quantitative methods to analyze historical changes, which was unprecedented in the field [5][6]. - The publication of "Han Agriculture" provided a sociological analysis of traditional Chinese agricultural structures, highlighting the evolution of agricultural marketization in ancient China [5][10]. Group 2: Influence and Recognition - Xu's works gained international recognition, with "Han Agriculture" being included in Harvard University's Asian Studies series and receiving high praise from notable scholars like Fei Zhengqing [6][10]. - His contributions to the understanding of ancient Chinese civilization, particularly the transition from feudalism to a centralized state, have been influential in shaping modern historical discourse [12]. Group 3: Future Research Directions - Xu expressed a desire for future scholars to build upon his foundational work, particularly in exploring the complexities of local governance and social structures during the Han dynasty [12]. - The recent archaeological discoveries provide new opportunities for in-depth studies of ancient Chinese societal frameworks, which Xu indicated were only beginning to be explored in his writings [12].

Core Viewpoint - Xu Zhuoyun, a prominent historian, passed away at the age of 95, leaving behind a legacy of optimism and a deep connection to his homeland despite a life marked by war and political turmoil [1][2]. Group 1: Personal Background and Legacy - Xu Zhuoyun lived in the United States for over 60 years and was known for his emotional responses when discussing historical events, particularly the Anti-Japanese War [4][5]. - He authored numerous works, including "The History of the Western Zhou" and "The Spirit of Chinese Culture," and continued to publish even in his 90s [1][10]. - His experiences during the Anti-Japanese War profoundly influenced his historical perspective, focusing on the lives of ordinary people [10][11]. Group 2: Educational Influence - Xu Zhuoyun served as a mentor to notable figures, including writer Wang Xiaobo, fostering a free and open dialogue about various subjects beyond strict academic boundaries [12][13]. - His teaching style emphasized the importance of understanding history and culture, which left a lasting impact on his students [12][13]. Group 3: Final Years and Reflections - In his later years, Xu Zhuoyun remained engaged with contemporary issues, addressing the challenges faced by younger generations and emphasizing the importance of moral integrity [15][16]. - His last works were inspired by global events, including the COVID-19 pandemic, and he sought to provide insights on how China could contribute positively to the world [15][16].

Core Viewpoint - The article highlights the life and contributions of Xu Zhuoyun, a prominent Chinese historian, emphasizing his dedication to history and culture, as well as his impact on contemporary society through his writings and teachings [3][21][22]. Group 1: Contributions to Historical Scholarship - Xu Zhuoyun published over 20 books and nearly 200 articles after his retirement in 1999, demonstrating his relentless pursuit of knowledge and sharing it with the public [2][22]. - His works, such as "The Eternal Rivers" and "Talking about China," explore the evolution of Chinese culture and the concept of "China" from a global perspective [7][21]. - He adopted a broad historical view, focusing on social and cultural history rather than just prominent figures, which reflects his belief in the importance of ordinary people's lives [21][22]. Group 2: Personal Philosophy and Legacy - Xu expressed a desire to awaken dreams and rectify misconceptions for the Chinese people, indicating his commitment to cultural and historical consciousness [3][22]. - He encouraged young people to seek meaning in life amidst a fast-paced, individualistic society, advocating for a deeper understanding of history [4][22]. - His metaphor of the "parrot extinguishing fire" illustrates his persistent efforts to contribute positively to society, despite the challenges he faced [21][22]. Group 3: Life Experiences Shaping His Views - Xu's early life experiences, including his physical limitations and observations during wartime, shaped his perspective as a "bystander" in history, leading to a profound understanding of the struggles of ordinary people [12][15]. - His education and mentorship under notable scholars in Taiwan and the United States further refined his historical approach, allowing him to develop a unique perspective on cultural and social changes [16][18]. - Throughout his career, he maintained a focus on the common people's experiences, which became a central theme in his writings and teachings [19][21].

Core Viewpoint - The article presents seven key pieces of advice from the renowned historian Xu Zhuoyun, emphasizing the importance of continuous learning, open-mindedness, and maintaining one's integrity throughout life's challenges [4][6][25]. Summary by Sections Advice on Learning and Knowledge - Emphasize the importance of diverse nourishment through interaction and exchange of ideas [8]. - Encourage exploring different opinions and engaging in in-depth discussions to broaden understanding [10]. - Advocate for an open mind to absorb a variety of knowledge and experiences, avoiding rigid thinking [13]. - Highlight the significance of recognizing the multitude of global issues to keep one's thoughts vibrant and active [15][18]. Personal Development and Integrity - Stress that everything in the world can be a learning opportunity, urging individuals to remain observant and curious [20]. - Point out that humans are not isolated beings; relationships and interactions are crucial for personal growth [22]. - Remind individuals to never lose their sense of self, dignity, and integrity, especially during challenging times [25].

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the life and contributions of the renowned historian Xu Zhuoyun, who passed away at the age of 95, highlighting his significant impact on Chinese historiography and culture [1][4]. Group 1: Biography and Academic Contributions - Xu Zhuoyun was born in September 1930 in Xiamen, Gulangyu, and settled in Pittsburgh, USA, in 1970 [4]. - He held various prestigious academic positions, including professor and department chair at National Taiwan University, and was a distinguished professor at institutions such as the Chinese University of Hong Kong, University of Hawaii, Duke University, and University of Pittsburgh [4]. - Xu is recognized as one of the most influential historians in the Chinese-speaking world, with notable works including the "Ancient China Trilogy" and the "Chinese Culture Trilogy," along with numerous popular history books [4]. - His work "万古江河" won the third "National Library Wenjin Book Award" [4]. Group 2: Awards and Recognition - Xu Zhuoyun received several prestigious awards, including the Asian Studies Association Special Contribution Award in 2004, the Lifetime Achievement Award at the Fourth Global Chinese National Studies Conference in 2020, and the "2022-2023 Influential World Chinese Lifetime Achievement Award" in 2023 [4]. - He is set to receive the Sixth Tang Prize in Sinology in 2024 [4].

Group 1 - The article discusses the author's academic journey and contributions to the field of history, emphasizing the importance of interdisciplinary approaches and the integration of various cultural perspectives [5][12][23] - The author highlights the significance of understanding historical changes through a combination of social, political, and economic factors, rather than attributing them to a single cause [12][30] - The work on ancient Chinese agriculture illustrates the interaction between population pressure, farming techniques, and market networks, showcasing the characteristics of smallholder economies [14][15][18] Group 2 - The author reflects on the evolution of Chinese civilization and its cultural interactions, arguing against a rigid application of European historical frameworks to Chinese history [29][30] - The discussion includes the impact of various dynasties on the development of societal structures and the concept of "Tianxia" (天下), contrasting it with the modern notion of nation-states [31][32] - The article concludes with a personal reflection on the author's academic life and the ongoing pursuit of knowledge, indicating a commitment to further research in the field [32][33]

Core Viewpoint - Renowned historian Xu Zhuoyun passed away on August 4 in Pittsburgh, USA, at the age of 95, leaving behind a significant legacy in historical research focused on the common people and Chinese culture [1][2]. Group 1: Personal Background and Career - Xu Zhuoyun was born on September 3, 1930, in Xiamen, Fujian, and moved to the United States in 1970, where he became a professor in the History Department at the University of Pittsburgh [2]. - His research primarily focused on Chinese cultural history, social economic history, and ancient Chinese history, with notable works including "On Ancient Chinese Social History," "Agriculture in the Han Dynasty," and "The History of the Western Zhou" [2][9]. - He emphasized writing for the common people, stating that his historical research always aimed to reflect the lives of ordinary citizens [4][10]. Group 2: Influences and Themes in Research - Xu's experiences during the Anti-Japanese War, particularly witnessing the struggles of ordinary people, profoundly influenced his perspective on history, leading him to focus on the lives of the common folk [6][9]. - He expressed a desire for China to adopt the strengths of various governance systems to create a better society for its citizens [4][10]. - His later works, including "Xu Zhuoyun Talks About America," reflect his observations of American society and history, aiming to draw parallels and lessons for China [5][10]. Group 3: Legacy and Impact - Xu Zhuoyun's teaching career included mentoring notable figures such as writer Wang Xiaobo, influencing their literary and historical perspectives [15][16]. - His approach to history, which prioritized social and cultural aspects over prominent historical figures, has been both praised and critiqued, but he maintained that the focus should be on the lives and thoughts of ordinary people [9][10]. - His works continue to resonate, as they address the complexities of modern civilization and the importance of understanding historical context in shaping contemporary society [13][14].