Zizhi Tongjian (literally "Comprehensive Mirror for Aid in Government") was compiled by Sima Guang (1019-1086), a renowned historian and statesman, and his assistances in the Northern Song Dynasty (960-1279). It took them 19 years to finish it. The book is the first Chinese universal historiography in a "chronological style" (biannian) and an exemplary achievement in Chinese historiography.

Zizhi Tongjian contains 294 volumes, about 3 million characters and chronologically narrates the history of China from the Warring States Period in 403 BC to the beginning of the Song Dynasty in 959 AD. With politics, military affairs and national relations as its main concerns, the book also comprises of economy, culture and appraisal of historical figures. The book was compiled with the purpose of providing historical references to the rulers by describing the rise and fall of previous empires.

Zizhi Tongjian divides previous emperors into five categories according to their deeds and appraised each type so as to offer the ruler with historical references. The book also features the recordation of military events. The cause, situation, course and influence of each historic war are detailed in the book, such as the notable War at the Red Cliff (Chibi zhizhan) and the War along the Feishui River (Feishui zhizhan). Besides, recordation of economy, culture, significant political reforms, important thoughts, astronomy and calendar is also included in the book.

Zizhi Tongjian adopts a realist approach and boasts comprehensive content, brilliant style and penetrating insight. The book has exerted significant influence on the historiography. As a classic of ancient annalistic historiographies the Zizhi Tongjian enjoys an unfading fame and has issued more than 70 versions since its appearance 900 years ago.
Zizhi Tongjian is not only a pearl of traditional Chinese culture but also a significant component of the world’s historical works.