Covers the history of China from the foundation of the Manchu Qing Dynasty (1644-1912) through the Republican Era (1912-1949) and the era of Communist Party rule (1949-present). Topics include consolidation and empire-building under Manchu rule; internal rebellions and the growing menace of nineteenth century Western imperialism; the formation of a modern Republic and a Nationalist system of government (1912-49); the brutal and devastating war with Japan (1931-1945); and the foundation of a socialist government backed by the tide of rural revolution. Examines China's transformations under the leadership of Mao Zedong, Deng Xiaoping, and Jiang Zemin.