The Handwritten Diary of Zeng Wenzheng is the private diary of Zeng Guofan, who wrote in his diary from the 21st year of the Daoguang era (1841) until the 11th year of the Tongzhi era (1872), not long before his death. Throughout this time, he kept detailed records of his life. Through this collection of writings, Zeng reveals how he rose from a commoner to a famous philosopher, politician, man of letters, and military strategist. The result is a window into the inner world of Zeng Guofan, providing insight into an influential figure’s personality and psychology and the history of 19th century China itself.