Patterns of modern Chinese history

"While there are a great many books that deal with Chinese history as a whole, or with modern Chinese history in the twentieth century, or thematically (e.g. 'Revolution' economics, etc.) this book deals with a broad narrative, introductory but detailed, of the period starting with the Qing Dynasty, 1644-1912 and takes it to the present. The narrative arc begins with imperial China's greatest extent of wealth and power, traces it through its downward spiral and ultimate demise, and follows its revolutions, civil wars, invasions, radical political interlude, and rise once again to world prominence"--Provided by publisher.