This course guides students through the fundamentals of historical research, including historical theories, research methods, and the basic development and nature of Chinese historical sources. The course will equip students with the critical capacity to make historical reflections and conduct research on issues in history, especially on the history of China. It introduces basic themes in historical research, including the longstanding cultural tradition of historical writing, as well as modern debates surrounding historical study in China. Students will explore core historical theories, methodologies, and the evolution of Chinese historical sources—from oracle bone inscriptions and bamboo manuscripts to contemporary digitized sources. The course examines the longstanding cultural tradition of historical writing in China, as well as modern debates surrounding the discipline. Through close engagement with textual, archaeological, and other sources, students will develop essential skills in historical interpretation and analysis. They will be equipped with the conceptual and analytical tools to critically reflect on the nature and making of history and historical sources.