Philip A Kuhn, "Rebellion and its enemies in late imperial China,: Militarization and social structure, 1796-1864," (Harvard University Press, 1970)

This book examines the development of local militia in China during the Qing dynasty. The author focuses on how local elites organized and utilized militias to defend their communities and influence the state's policies. He analyzes the various levels of local organization, from village-based groups to larger multi-village confederations, and explores the relationship between the militia system and existing structures like lineage, market communities, and the bureaucracy. The text also explores how the Qing state attempted to control and integrate these local militias into its own military system. Finally, the author compares the organization and effectiveness of orthodox Confucian-led militias with heterodox, secret society-led rebellions. Local Militias in Qing Dynasty China Role of Local Elites in Qing Militias Village Defense and Militia Organization Confucian vs. Secret Society Militias Qing Dynasty Military and Local Militias Integration of Militia into Qing State System Lineage and Market Communities in Militia Formation Qing Bureaucracy and Militia Control Multi-Village Militia Confederations Local Elite Influence on Qing Policies Heterodox Rebellions vs. Orthodox Militias Social Structure and Militias in Qing China Community Defense and Military Organization Qing Dynasty Local Governance and Security Militia Systems and Regional Power Dynamics