Chun qiu

Chun qiu (春秋Spring and Autumn Annals) is said to be compiled by Confucius, based on the history book of the State of Lu, his hometown. It’s the earliest chronicle ever found in China, recording the history of Lu during 722-481 BC.

The contents covered the vassal states’ diplomatic relations, alliances and military actions, births, deaths, and marriages among ruling families, as well as rituals, city construction, hunting expeditions, and farm land management. The chronicle also noted natural disasters and phenomena such as floods, earthquakes, pestilence, constellations and eclipses. Originally a historical text arranged on annalistic principles of the State of Lu, the Spring and Autumn Annals was eventually edited and complied by Confucius, and became revered as a Confucian classic. Due to its conciseness, a number of commentaries were composed to explain its meaning.