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The first comprehensive study of China's military strategy and how it has evolved since 1949.

About the Author

M. Taylor Fravel is the Arthur and Ruth Sloan Professor of Political Science and a member of the Security Studies Program at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. He is the author of Strong Borders, Secure Nation (Princeton). Twitter @fravel

Reviews

"2019 War on the Rocks Holiday Reading List"

"This is the first book to provide a comprehensive history of China’s military doctrine as it has evolved since the founding of the People’s Republic."---Andrew J. Nathan, Foreign Affairs

"Meticulously analyzes China’s military strategy since 1945 . . . . A classic that is likely to have great long-term influence . . . . In this unstable environment, Professor Fravel’s book could hardly be timelier."---Chas W. Freeman, Jr., Book Post

"This book is an outstanding contribution to the canon on Chinese military and strategic affairs . . . . Fravel’s new book is an instant classic and a mandatory reference source. I would recommend this volume to students of Chinese foreign policy, international relations, and military affairs without reservation."---James Mulvenon, China Quarterly

"Taylor is an authority on the People’s Liberation Army, and his latest book is deeply researched and based on primary materials, providing a picture of the ways in which strategic thought in the Chinese military context has evolved over the years. It’s easy to recommend as a necessary reference volume for anyone writing on China’s contemporary approach to military affairs, rich in context and history."---Ankit Panda, War on the Rocks

"An invaluable reference with great intellectual rigor and excellent explanation of sources and methods, Active Defense belongs in a prominent place in the bookshelf of all serious students of China security issues."---Andrew S. Erickson, Journal of Chinese Political Science

"Fravel’s book is a worthwhile read. China experts and enthusiasts will find it especially compelling, as will those interested in military strategy."---Shai A. Kivity, Israel Journal of Foreign Affairs