France and Germany in the South China Sea, c. 1840-1930: Maritime competition and Imperial Power

This book explores imperial power and the transnational encounters of shipowners and merchants in the South China Sea from 1840 to 1930, using French and German companies as examples to demonstrate how transnational actors and business networks interacted with imperial power and the process of globalization.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 484 pages
Publication date: 03 July 2022
Publisher: Springer Nature Switzerland AG

This captivating book delves into the intricate tapestry of imperial power and the transnational encounters of shipowners and merchants in the South China Sea from 1840 to 1930. Situated at the crossroads of British Hong Kong and French Indochina, the 'Asian Mediterranean' emerged as a vibrant epicenter of power and an arena of economic contention for coastal shipping companies hailing from diverse nations. Merchant steamers, laden with cargoes and passengers, traversed the region's bustling ports, creating a network that linked Hong Kong, the global port city, with the colonial ports of Saigon and Haiphong. Meanwhile, Guangzhouwan, once a forgotten outpost of Indochina, clung to its existence as a testament to the enduring legacy of imperial influence.

While previous research in this field has predominantly confined itself to the realm of colonial history, this book takes a novel approach by utilizing the examples of French and German companies operating in the South China Sea. Through these case studies, it becomes evident that transnational actors and business networks intricately intertwined with imperial power, shaping the course of globalization in profound ways.

The book explores the complex dynamics that unfolded within this maritime realm. It sheds light on the strategic importance of the South China Sea, as a vital crossroads for trade and commerce, attracting the attention of imperial powers such as Britain, France, and Germany. Shipowners and merchants, driven by economic ambitions and navigational challenges, navigated the treacherous waters of the South China Sea, forging alliances, rivalries, and complex networks that transcended national boundaries.

The book also delves into the impact of imperial power on the local communities and economies of the region. It examines how the colonial policies and regulations imposed by imperial powers shaped the trajectory of trade and commerce, creating opportunities for some while restricting others. It highlights the struggles and resilience of the local populations, who adapted to the changing tides of imperial power and sought to navigate the complexities of the globalized economy.

Furthermore, the book explores the role of business networks in facilitating transnational trade and commerce. It examines how shipowners, merchants, and financiers collaborated to establish shipping routes, negotiate tariffs, and secure financing for their ventures. It sheds light on the strategies employed by these actors to navigate the challenges of international trade, such as market fluctuations, political instability, and regulatory complexities.

The book also examines the cultural and social implications of the transnational encounters in the South China Sea. It explores how the exchange of goods, ideas, and people across borders influenced the development of local cultures, traditions, and social structures. It highlights the complexities of cultural hybridization, where different cultures intersect and blend, creating new forms of identity and belonging.

In conclusion, this book offers a comprehensive and insightful exploration of imperial power and the transnational encounters of shipowners and merchants in the South China Sea from 1840 to 1930. It provides a rich tapestry of historical narratives, analytical insights, and case studies that shed light on the complex interplay between imperial power, global trade, and local communities. By examining the experiences of French and German companies operating in this region, the book demonstrates the extent to which transnational actors and business networks interacted with imperial power and contributed to the process of globalization. This book is a valuable resource for scholars, researchers, and anyone interested in understanding the historical and contemporary dynamics of the South China Sea and the broader global context in which it operates.

Weight: 648g
Dimension: 210 x 148 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783030526061
Edition number: 1st ed. 2021