Renowned Chinese historian Dai Yi, architect of ‘History of Qing Dynasty,’ passes away at 100

Photo: whb.cn

 Renowned Chinese historian Dai Yi, whose life was intertwined with the monumental project History of Qing Dynasty, passed away on January 24 at the age of 100.

Dai, born in Changshu, East China's Jiangsu Province in 1926, entered the Department of History at Peking University in 1946. 

Dai, a leading figure in Chinese Qing Dynasty (1644-1911) historical studies, authored over 40 works, including A Draft of Modern Chinese History, A Concise History of the Qing Dynasty, and Emperor Qianlong and His Era.

"Qing History is my profession; I dedicate my entire life's energy to it. I can say that I sleep, eat, learn, and walk within it," Dai once said. "Qing History is my philosophical home, the pillar of my spirit, and the sanctuary of my life." 

In 1978, Dai was appointed as the director of the newly established Qing History Research Institute at Renmin University. He then prepared for the monumental task of compiling the Qing History.

Dai's commitment to the project was evident in his meticulous efforts to unravel the complexities of Qing history. 

In 2002, under Dai's leadership, the Qing History Compilation project was officially initiated, one of the largest national cultural projects since 1949. This project has become a lasting connection between Dai and Qing history.

Despite challenges, his scholarly achievements gained recognition, leading him to become a prominent figure in Qing history studies.

His legacy lives on through his extensive body of work and his crucial role in shaping the narrative of Qing history for generations to come.