Publishing Journal ›› 2025, Vol. 33 ›› Issue (5): 119-128.

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Preserving the Past and Statecraft: A Study Centered on Zhang Zhidong and the Guangya Book Bureau 

  

  1. School of Marxism, Tianjin University

  • Received:2024-10-08 Revised:2025-04-12 Online:2025-10-14 Published:2025-10-14

Abstract:

The research focuses on the relationship between Zhang Zhidong and Guangya Book Bureau, analyzing it from four aspects: in terms of the establishment background, Guangya Book Bureau served as a platform for Zhang Zhidong to disseminate the wisdom of ancient philosophers, continue the Qing Dynasty’s governance philosophy of “upholding the fundamental principles of the country”, and implement his advocacy of “practical application in governing the country” in Guangdong. In terms of organizational structure, he skillfully engaged in dialogue with local academic traditions, employing former students and officials while also incorporating the “Dongshu School” to establish a model of “interaction between politics and academia”. In terms of publishing content, the focus was on historical classics in Qing dynasty, highlighting the characteristic of “using history to inform politics” and reflecting his academic orientation of “practical application in governing the country”. In terms of power operation, the rise and fall of the Guangya Book Bureau was closely related to Zhang Zhidong’s political career, gradually declining after his departure from office. The research specifically demonstrates the decisive shaping role played by local governors in the late Qing Dynasty on Guangya Book Bureau , the key role of local academic traditions and academic resources in the operation of Guangya Book Bureau, and the deep interaction between publishing and politics. 

Key words:

Zhang Zhidong  , Guangya Book Bureau ,  , Dongshu School  , Statecraft

CLC Number: