Born in Jiangsu in 1895, Ch'ien Mu established himself as a prominent Chinese historian and philosopher through a career that spanned the tumultuous twentieth century. Rising from a background of self-study, he held academic positions at major institutions including Yenching, Tsinghua, and Peking University, eventually becoming a member of the Academia Sinica and a defender of traditional Confucian values.
Early Career and Academic Influence
Ch'ien began his professional life as a primary school teacher in his hometown before being invited to lecture at Yenching University in 1930. He subsequently served at Tsinghua and Peking Universities. Following the 1937 Japanese occupation of Beijing, he moved south, contributing to the academic efforts of the National Southwestern Associated University in Yunnan. During this period, he authored A General History of China, a work intended to instill confidence in the endurance of Chinese civilization through its core cultural values.
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In 1949, Ch'ien migrated to British Hong Kong, where he co-founded New Asia College and served as its president until 1965. His tenure was marked by the education of numerous scholars. Although he resigned following the institution's incorporation into The Chinese University of Hong Kong, he continued his educational mission by founding the New Asia Middle School. During his time in Hong Kong, he was recognized with an honorary doctorate from the University of Hong Kong.
Later Years in Taiwan
Ch'ien moved to Taiwan in 1967 at the invitation of President Chiang Kai-shek. He was elected a member of the Academia Sinica in 1968 and resided at his home, Sushulou, in the Shilin District. In 1990, after political figures accused him of illegally occupying public land, he relocated to an apartment in downtown Taipei. He died on 30 August 1990 and was buried near Lake Tai in Wuxi in 1992.
Philosophical and Literary Output
A prolific writer, Ch'ien produced approximately 76 works during his lifetime, totaling over 17 million words. His scholarship often emphasized the significance of traditional Chinese thought and Confucianism, countering the skeptical trends of the New Culture Movement. His complete works were later compiled into 54 volumes, with a revised edition issued in 2011. Notable titles include his study of the Qin and Han dynasties and his examination of Song and Ming Neo-Confucianism.
Fast facts
- Born: 1895, Jiangsu, China
- Died: 30 August 1990, Taipei
- Occupation: Historian, philosopher, teacher
- Notable work: A General History of China
- Memberships: Academia Sinica
- Philosophy: Confucianism
- Key academic post: President, New Asia College (1949–1965)
- Total publications: 76 works
Questions readers ask
What was the core message of Ch'ien Mu's A General History of China?
He aimed to demonstrate that China possessed an enduring civilizational power grounded in core values, ensuring the nation would not fall despite external pressures.
Why did Ch'ien Mu leave his home in Sushulou?
He moved out in 1990 after two politicians alleged that the gifting of the land by President Chiang Kai-shek was illegal.
Achievements
- Notable work: A General History of China
- Held posts at Yenching University, Peking University and Tsinghua University