This comprehensive volume traces the Chinese military and its experiences over the past 2,500 years, describing clashes with other kingdoms and nations as well as internal rebellions and revolutions. China has played an increasingly important role on the international stage in recent years. It is now well on its way to becoming a world superpower and a military juggernaut. Understanding the Chinese perspective on war, military strategy, and national security is now of critical importance?and examining China's extensive military history can provide great insight into what the future may bring. As the first book of its kind, China at War: An Encyclopedia expands far beyond the conventional military history book that is focused on describing key wars, battles, military leaders, and influential events. Xiaobing Li-an expert writer in the subjects of Asian history and military affairs-provides not only a broad, chronological account of China's long military history, but also addresses Chinese values, concepts, and attitudes regarding war. This encyclopedia contains an introductory essay written to place the reference entries within a larger contextual framework, allowing students to compare Chinese with Western and American views and approaches to war.