As the creators of culture, people themselves are part of that culture. As for a country, its most influential historical and literary figures play an important role in creating and reflecting its culture. This booklet describes 28 Chinese historical and literary figures who have contributed a great deal to Chinese culture and remain, to this day, an indispensable part of Chinese modem life. Today’s Chinese not only remember them, but frequently mention, discuss and commemorate them. Their names are often on the lips of modem Chinese people, as if they were still living with them as brothers or sisters. To understand China and Chinese people, it is essential to know something about these "mysterious" figures !