Data-Driven Chinese History: 1700 to the Modern Era

Understanding the rise of modern China requires looking beyond traditional narratives to the actual data recorded in historical archives. This course introduces a quantitative approach to history, revealing how large-scale data analysis changes our perception of social and economic shifts. You will learn to interpret the evolution of Chinese society from 1700 to the late 20th century using a comparative framework. By examining the evidence behind the history, you will gain a clear perspective on how institutional changes, population trends, and social mobility shaped the nation. What you'll learn: - Understand the foundational concepts of quantitative history and archival data analysis - Analyze social mobility and demographic trends in China over three centuries - Apply comparative methods to evaluate China's development alongside global historical patterns - Explore how big historical datasets are used to redefine traditional historical narratives - Practice interpreting statistical evidence related to family structures and institutional growth - Identify key turning points in modern Chinese history through a data-centric lens The course starts with an introduction to historical data terminology and basic research methodologies before examining specific eras and datasets. You will read through detailed explanations and analyze written examples of data-driven historical findings to build your understanding step-by-step. This course is designed for beginners interested in history, social sciences, or data analysis. No previous background in Chinese studies or advanced statistics is required to succeed. Begin your journey into the quantitative history of China today.