The political, social and cultural development of Chinese civilization is explored in Harold M. Tanner’s latest book, China: A History (Hackett Publishing).

Focusing on the ethnic diversity of early empires, the country’s interaction with other civilizations and its transformation into a modern nation-state, Tanner chronicles the development of the world’s most populous nation. The associate professor of history has traveled extensively in China and lived in Beijing while studying at the Beijing Languages Institute and Beijing University. He teaches courses on Chinese history and U.S.-China diplomatic relations.