God's Chinese Son: The Taiping Heavenly Kingdom of Hong Xiuquan by Spence, Jonathan D

New.. Hardcover. Brand-new, 1st edition hardcover with dustjacket published 1996 by W. W. Norton. Gift-giving condition: pristine; no marks; pages bright; binding tight; unread. 400 pages; Index; Notes; Bibliography; black-and- white photos; maps. Language: English. 'Newly discovered texts in the British Library convinced Spence to reassess the uprising of China's Taiping Heavenly Kingdom and the actions of its leader, Hong Xiuquan. Spanning the early- to mid-19th century, the resulting epic study presents a fascinating history of the sect's leader: Hong's involvement with a Christian evangelist's writings and the developing mystical beliefs that led him to become a preacher with grandiose plans for Chinese citizenry. Spence traces Hong's eventual conversion and command of legions of religious acolytes into a vast army of supporters destined to attempt an astounding overthrow of the Manchu dynasty. A richly detailed, erudite account that will mesmerize history buffs and China watchers alike.'-- Alice Joyce, Booklist.