Core Viewpoint - Xu Zhuoyun is regarded as one of the most influential historians in the Chinese-speaking world, with significant contributions to ancient history, economic history, cultural history, archaeology, and sociology [1][6][12]. Group 1: Academic Contributions - Xu Zhuoyun's major academic works include "The Ancient China Trilogy" and "The Chinese Culture Trilogy," which have become standard references for the study of ancient China, selling millions of copies worldwide [1][6]. - His ability to maintain intellectual sharpness and produce new works at over ninety years old is noted as a rare achievement in academia [6][12]. Group 2: Public Engagement - Xu Zhuoyun has gained public recognition through media appearances, such as on the program "Thirteen Invitations," where he shared his historical insights and personal experiences [3][13]. - He emphasizes the importance of education and enlightenment, advocating for the dissemination of knowledge through media to reach a broader audience [5][11]. Group 3: Influence on Youth - His writings, such as "The Eternal River" and "Xu Zhuoyun Talks About America," have significantly impacted young readers by presenting grand historical narratives in an accessible manner [8][15]. - Xu Zhuoyun's works are characterized by their blend of scholarly rigor and engaging storytelling, appealing to both academic and general audiences [11][15]. Group 4: Cultural Perspectives - He expresses a deep concern for the future of China and the world, drawing lessons from history to address contemporary issues [9][10]. - Xu Zhuoyun critiques modern civilization's challenges, particularly the disconnection between people and nature, advocating for the unique qualities of Chinese culture to offer solutions [17].

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].