China

A panoramic survey of China’s geography, peoples, and institutions, beginning with its major rivers and regional landscape that shape transport and agriculture. The narrative outlines historical influences and ethnic diversity, then examines family authority, marriage customs, foot-binding, guilds, and popular entertainments. Administrative organization, competitive examinations, taxation, and legal punishments are described alongside everyday occupations, riverine commerce, fishing, piracy, and foreign trade. Urban life in key ports is sketched, and chapters on festivals, New Year observances, dragon-boat races, and charitable and social institutions round out the account, which is illustrated throughout in colour and black-and-white.