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Family Lineage Records
As a Resource for Korean History
A Case Study of Thirty-Nine Generations
of the Sinch'n Kang Family (720 A.D.-1955)
Hildi Kang
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History and genealogy become partners in this book to create a comprehensive understanding of Korean lineage records (chokpo), among the oldest and most complete in the world. The introduction itself is in two sections: one explores the historical necessity for these complex records, while the second introduces the background of the Sinch'?n Kang clan, a modest clan with a representative ratio of known and unknown ancestors.
The main text is divided into Tradition and Tradition Breakers. "Tradition" contains the direct translation of chokpo material with short sections of relevant Korean history presented both at the opening of each chapter and in the comments following the chokpo entries. It covers the thirty-eight generations from ca. 720 A.D. to 1955, and each ancestor is presented with as much information as possible. Five worthy of in-depth coverage were the founding ancestor (ca. 720 A.D.), the first solidly historical ancestor (ca. 1190); the black sheep of the family (ca. 1310); a skeleton in the family closet (ca. 1350); and a bona fide hero (1603), each reflecting their place in history.
Tradition Breakers uses recorded memory to look with more detail at the four men who lived after 1850, each of whom quietly broke tradition within the family--the first Protestant Christian (1850), first doctor of western medicine (1887), first bank manager under Japanese rule (1910), and first to move away from Korea (1935).
By weaving together the three areas of research-history of the chokpo, translation of the ancestors, and segments of general and oral history--this book provides a sweeping view of Korean history and a unique understanding of the country's lineage records.
The list price for this book is $119.95. However, Mellen Press has made available complementary copies for review purposes, and (until 11/30/2007) personal copies for $39.95. In each case, they request that their order form be used. If interested, please contact sales@mellenpress.com.
Edwin Mellen Press 304pp 2007
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