How can Taoist texts can help deepen our understanding of early Chinese history?

Taoist texts can deepen our understanding of Chinese history. Taoism is China's only indigenous religion. Ancient China had never had an alternative model other than an emperor. Emperor was the model for over 2,000 years. Early Taoism is much different than that though. Taoism is a theocracy based around "tianshi." Tianshi was a celestial master who was supposed to establish a new political structure. The political structure was the "Great Peace," in which every individual would be treated justly. This concept provided an alternative for Chinese people in ancient times from Confucianism. The founder of Taoism didn't take the title of emperor unlike all all Chinese rulers. The founder of Taoism is called Zhang Daoling. But the political structure in China did not last. Taoism is an important religion among ethnic minorities in China, Thailand, Laos and Vietnam. The Taoist religion left behind no physical objects so Historians needed to look at official dynasty history to learn about this religion and about its traditions. Also, the Taoist canon can be used to provide information about the religion.