The Northern Wei was a dynasty which originated outside China and which ruled northern China at the time when the south of China was ruled by a series of dynasties which originated inside China.

Both during the time the Northern Wei were in power, and over many centuries subsequently, the legitimacy of the Northern Wei was questioned. This book outlines the history of the Northern Wei, including their origins, and the history of their southern rivals, considers the practices adopted by both the Northern Wei and their rivals to establish legitimacy, and examines the debates which preoccupied Chinese scholars subsequently.

The book thereby casts much light on traditional ideas about legitimate rule in China, ideas which have enduring relevance as tradition continues to be very significant in contemporary China.