The Manchu Way

Mark C. Elliott is Professor of Chinese and Inner Asian History at Harvard University.

"This book is the most interesting history ever written of the Manchus in Chinese life, and one of the most important contributions to Qing studies in the last decade... It is engagingly, even elegantly written, with enviable clarity and nice touches of ironic humor." - Timothy Brook, University of Toronto "[The Manchu Way] will be important reading not only for all historians of China but for all students of the history of the early modern world. Formidable in its learning, it is very lucidly written, makes its arguments clearly, and is full of vivid descriptions and quotations." - American Historical Review "By examining the details of garrison life, using extensive archival materials written only in Manchu, Elliot draws an insiders' picture of their world... Elliot offers a rich fund of material and a new and powerful argument that is vital reading for anyone interested in the transition from empire to nation around the world." - The Journal of Interdisciplinary History "This is a wide-ranging and innovative book. Furthermore, it is written in a lively, accessible style ...It will also be stimulating for readers interested in ethnicity, identity, and the creation of empires. Overall, it is undoubtedly a scholarly achievement of the highest order." - History Today