About the book
The Chinese Maritime Customs Service, which was led by British staff, is often seen as one of the key agents of Western imperialism in China, the customs revenue being one of the major sources of Chinese government income but a source much of which was pledged to Western banks as the collateral for, and interests payments on, massive loans. This book, however, based on extensive original research, considers the lower level staff of the Chinese Maritime Customs Service, and shows how the Chinese government, struggling to master Western expertise in many areas, pursued a deliberate policy of encouraging lower level staff to learn from their Western superiors with a view to eventually supplanting them, a policy which was successfully carried out. The book thereby demonstrates that Chinese engagement with Western imperialists was in fact an essential part of Chinese national state-building, and that what looked like a key branch of Chinese government delegated to foreigners was in fact very much under Chinese government control.
Editions of Government, Imperialism and Nationalism in China
- EBook
- ISBN 9781135122324
- PDF
- ISBN 9781135122331
Read an Excerpt
The Chinese Maritime Customs Service, which was led by British staff, is often seen as one of the key agents of Western imperialism in China, the customs revenue being one of the major sources of Chinese government income but a source much of which was pledged to Western banks as the collateral for, and interests payments on, massive loans. This book, however, based on extensive original research, considers the lower level staff of the Chinese Maritime Customs Service, and shows how the Chinese government, struggling to master Western expertise in many areas, pursued a deliberate policy of encouraging lower level staff to learn from their Western superiors with a view to eventually supplanting them, a policy which was successfully carried out. The book thereby demonstrates that Chinese engagement with Western imperialists was in fact an essential part of Chinese national state-building, and that what looked like a key branch of Chinese government delegated to foreigners was in fact very much under Chinese government control.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Government, Imperialism and Nationalism in China about?
The Chinese Maritime Customs Service, which was led by British staff, is often seen as one of the key agents of Western imperialism in China, the customs revenue being one of the major sources of Chinese government income but a source much of which was pledged to Western banks as the collateral for, and interests payments on, massive loans. This book, however, based on extensive original research, considers the lower level staff of the Chinese Maritime Customs Service, and shows how the Chinese government, struggling to master Western expertise in many areas, pursued a deliberate policy of encouraging lower level staff to learn from their Western superiors with a view to eventually supplanting them, a policy which was successfully carried out. The book thereby demonstrates that Chinese engagement with Western imperialists was in fact an essential part of Chinese national state-building, and that what looked like a key branch of Chinese government delegated to foreigners was in fact very much under Chinese government control.
What core themes, tropes, or subjects are explored in Government, Imperialism and Nationalism in China?
Society and Social Sciences > Politics and government
Where can I read a sample of Government, Imperialism and Nationalism in China?
You can read an official preview of the few pages here https://www.book2look.com/book/9781135122324
Is Government, Imperialism and Nationalism in China part of a series, and can it be read as a standalone?
Yes it is a part of series Routledge Studies in the Modern History of Asia
Who is/are the Author/s of the book Government, Imperialism and Nationalism in China?
Chihyun Chang
Who is the Publisher of the book Government, Imperialism and Nationalism in China?
Taylor and Francis
What are the ISBN numbers for the physical and digital editions?
Government, Imperialism and Nationalism in China is available as ebook(ISBN 9781135122324) and pdf(ISBN 9781135122331)