{"title":"Lawrence Zhang","description":"\u003cp\u003eExplore the intriguing world of geopolitical strategies and historical narratives with books by \u003cem\u003eLawrence Zhang\u003c\/em\u003e. As an acclaimed author in the realms of History and Military, Zhang offers insightful perspectives that captivate both history enthusiasts and casual readers alike.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eOne of his notable works, \u003cem\u003ePower for a Price\u003c\/em\u003e, delves into the intricate dynamics of power struggles and alliances that have shaped global history. Through meticulous research and engaging storytelling, Zhang brings to life the pivotal events and figures that have influenced the course of nations.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eLawrence Zhang's writing is celebrated for its clarity and depth, making complex historical subjects accessible to a wide audience. His books are an ideal choice for those looking to gain a deeper understanding of the forces that drive human conflict and cooperation throughout history.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eWhether you are a seasoned history buff or simply curious about the past, the works of Lawrence Zhang offer a captivating journey through the annals of time, rendering history not just informative but truly engaging.\u003c\/p\u003e","products":[{"product_id":"power-for-a-price-by-lawrence-zhang-9780674278295","title":"Power for a Price","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"book-description\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Qing dynasty office purchase system (\u003ci\u003ejuanna\u003c\/i\u003e), which allowed individuals to pay for appointments in the government, was regarded in traditional Chinese historiography as an inherently corrupt and anti-meritocratic practice. It enabled participants to become civil and military officials while avoiding the competitive government-run examination systems.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eLawrence Zhang's groundbreaking study of a broad selection of new archival and other printed evidence—including a list of over 10,900 purchasers of offices from 1798 and narratives of purchase—contradicts this widely held assessment and investigates how observers and critics of the system, past and present, have informed this questionable negative view.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe author argues that, rather than seeing office purchase as a last resort for those who failed to obtain official appointments via other means, it was a preferred method for wealthy and well-connected individuals to leverage their social capital to the fullest extent. Office purchase was thus not only a useful device that raised funds for the state, but also a political tool that, through literal investments in their positions and their potential to secure status and power, tied the interests of official elites ever more closely to those of the state.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Unknown","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":47000708776172,"sku":"9780674278295","price":63.99,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0705\/7784\/8556\/files\/1284833482428.jpg?v=1763299461"}],"url":"https:\/\/bookhero.pro\/collections\/lawrence-zhang.oembed","provider":"Book Hero","version":"1.0","type":"link"}