I'm primarily interested in the formation of the CCP, civil war, and history since, though I figure it's probably good to know what happened during the republic and Qing dynasty as well.
I'm primarily interested in the formation of the CCP, civil war, and history since, though I figure it's probably good to know what happened during the republic and Qing dynasty as well.
I know I'll get downvoted but if you want a non-Chinese perspective on Mao I suggest "Mao's Great Famine" by Frank Dikotter, he's in Hong Kong and from the UK so bear that in mind.
As for something more on the China side of thing I wouldn't know but I have a copy of the Little Red Book and although there isn't history inside of it, it really gives you a feel for the ideological basis of the CPC.