This book explores the Ming dynasty military, its impact on local society and its many legacies for Chinese society. It is based on extensive original research by scholars using the methodology of historical anthropology, an approach that has transformed the study of Chinese history by approaching the subject from the bottom up.

State Institutions, Local Society, and Historical Continuity: Ming Military Institutions from the Perspective of Historical Anthropology Michael Szonyi and Zhao Shiyu The Social Impact of Changing Patterns of Military Recruitment and Logistics in Yongzhou, Hunan Wu Tao Military Colonies and Localization in Yongchun, Fujian Ma Wenrui and Zheng Zhenman The Evolution of Temples in Jinxiang Guard and the Localization of State Institutions Zhang Kan State and Local Society in the Reform of the Garrison System in the Qing Dynasty: A Case Study of Yuzhou Guard Deng Qingping Where are the Western Aborigines?: Ningfan Guard and the Transformation of Local Society in Southwestern Sichuan in Ming and Qing Long Sheng The Green Shoots Crop Protection Associations of Taozhou, Gansu: Ming Identities/Qing Histories Que Yue The "Civilianization" of Military Colonies and the Reorganization of Military Households: Ningxi Battalion and the Reconstruction of Rural Order in South China in the Eighteenth Century Xie Shi Military Lineages and the Qing Tribute Grain System: The "Xie/Chen/Liao Barge" of Ganzhou Guard, Jiangxi Rao Weixin The Tribute Grain System, Military Colony Lands, and Transport Soldier Lineages in Ming and Qing: The Case of Huangzhou and Qizhou Garrisons of Eastern HubeiXu BinAppendices:I. Ming and Qing reign periodsII Ming weights and measuresIII Glossary and character listReferences