China has a long history, and its extensive historical records are indispensable materials for studying ancient history. As a book documenting the history of the Tang Dynasty, the "New Book of Tang" is known alongside the "Old Book of Tang" as an important document for studying various aspects of the Tang Dynasty's politics, economy, and culture. This article aims to explore the status of the "New Book of Tang" and its value as an official history.

The compilation background of the "New Book of Tang" was during the Northern Song Dynasty, compiled by Ouyang Xiu, Song Qi, and others. Its compilation began in the fourth year of Qingli (1044) during the reign of Emperor Renzong of the Northern Song Dynasty and was completed in the fifth year of Jiayou (1060). The purpose of compiling the "New Book of Tang" was to correct errors and supplement missing parts in the "Old Book of Tang," striving to make the historical records of the Tang Dynasty more comprehensive and accurate.

The content and structure of the "New Book of Tang" consist of 225 volumes, including 10 volumes of biographies, 15 volumes of tables, 50 volumes of chronicles, and 150 volumes of biographies. Compared to the "Old Book of Tang," it adds some new categories of biographies, such as "Exemplary Conduct," "Recluses," and "Feudal Governors," which reflect various aspects of Tang society and enrich the content of the historical record.

In the traditional Chinese historiography, "official history" usually refers to authoritative historical works recognized by the government. The "New Book of Tang" was officially compiled during the Song Dynasty and later included as one of the "Twenty-Four Histories." It not only inherits the basic framework of the "Old Book of Tang" but also makes significant efforts in collecting and organizing historical materials, improving the quality of historical compilation.

The historical value of the "New Book of Tang" lies in its systematic collation and deep excavation of Tang Dynasty history. It incorporates a large amount of first-hand materials such as inscriptions and archives, adding many important events and figures not covered in the "Old Book of Tang." Additionally, it adopts more biographical materials based on the chronological style, making the characters more three-dimensional and historical events clearer.

In conclusion, the "New Book of Tang" is not only an officially recognized official history but also a treasure in the treasury of Chinese historiography. With its detailed records and rigorous compilation attitude, it provides valuable materials for future generations to study the Tang Dynasty. Although any historical work inevitably has its limitations, the contribution of the "New Book of Tang" lies in its effort to present a true and multifaceted Tang Dynasty to the extent possible, leaving a precious historical legacy for future generations.

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