The first in a three-volume set, this book explores the Western influence on the late Qing Dynasty. Key Features of the series: Presents unique insights on many important theoretical issues, individuals, and events in the history of the Eastward dissemination of Western learning; Discusses the five major themes of the Eastward dissemination of Western learning in the late Qing Dynasty, namely knowing the world, seeking to become strong and rich, saving the country, democratic revolution, and enlightenment through science; The Chinese version has been awarded several prestigious literary prizes including the Grand Prize of College Scientific Research (1993-1994), Outstanding Books of Shanghai Philosophy and Social Sciences (1994-1995), and Second Prize of Outstanding Books of Political Theory. Series Content Highlights: The Spread of Western Learning in the Transitional Period of the Ming and Qing Dynasties; The Spread of Western Learning in Southeast Asia and Guangzhou before the Opium War; The Relationship between Newspapers and Magazines and the Spread of Western Learning; The Contribution of Missionaries; Responses from Chinese Society after the Introduction of Western Learning