Sima Qian, the grand historian of China, inspired History students of later generations with his mission to study all that concern nature and human, to understand changes of the past and present, and to make contribution by writing. As historians following his footsteps, we warmly welcome you to join us in keeping the age-old yet ever-new discipline of History viable and dynamic.

When History takes us to travel between heaven and earth, past and present, and from one civilization to the other, we learn where we are from and where we are heading for. Through these journeys, we see the human world as a whole in its fullness. It is its holistic concern that distinguished History from other academic disciplines. And it is this feature of History that stimulated scholars in other fields. One living example is the impact of the French Annales School’s ideal of total history on social sciences. We therefore should have self-confidence and self-esteem in what we are and take pride in the discipline of History which embodies both the humanistic spirit and social values.

Our Department has evolved on the foundation laid by the first generation of great masters and become one of the leading centres of historical studies in the Asia-Pacific region. All along we have emphasized a balanced, diversified and inclusive curriculum. While developing comparative history and public history in recent years, we also strive for paradigmatic breakthroughs in the studies of Chinese history. Our ideal is to encompass the following as our features:

• Solid foundational training
• A longue duree view
• Comparative perspective
• Public concern

All these are manifested in our curricular reforms, the establishment of related research centres, and launch of various academic projects and activities. Do come to join us, for interest, thirst for knowledge, or sense of mission. Trust that you will gain from us as we from you.