Originally published in 1985, Urbanisation in China is based on extensive original research and fieldwork, considers the whole problem of urbanisation in China. Starting with an outline of the pre-communist legacy, the author traces population changes and urban growth throughout the communist period, assesses policies aimed at restricting urban growth and contrasts the reality of urban China with the image the authorities have tried to project. The policy changes that occurred following the death of Mao are analysed and concludes with a consideration of likely developments up to the end of the century.