The fourth volume “Historical thought. Political and Legal Culture" of the encyclopedia "Spiritual Culture of China" is closely related to the three previous volumes: "Philosophy" (2006), "Mythology. Religion" (2007), "Literature. Language and writing" (2008). All of them are dedicated to a single spiritual complex of Chinese culture and have a common terminological and textual base. The general section of this volume contains articles reflecting the themes and problems of the area covered in the title in traditional and modern China. The Dictionary section presents basic concepts, movements, schools of historical and political thought, works, including dynastic histories and codes, and personalities. A significant number of articles are devoted to the work of Chinese historians, biographies of emperors, famous historical figures, party and government figures. The reference section includes selected bibliography, chronological tables, maps and indexes.