Western Power in Asia

For centuries, the major poweres of the West were seduced by theallure of the countries of "the Far East". Spices, textiles, silkand tea were the staples of East- West trade. But competitionbetween Western traders eventually caused military intervention inAsian affairs and the establishment of colonial empires. Theseactions have shapred the history of mankind and left a legacy thatstill reverberates throughout Asia. Western Power in Asia is a unique contribution to theunderstanding of present- day Asia. Essential reading for anyoneinterested in world history, Arthur Cotterell offers fascinatinginsights into five hundred extraordinary years of power andinfluence by the West, which disappeared spectacularly after theSecond World War. The author's ability to tell both sides of thestory, with the aid of contemporary illustrations as well asquotations, makes this book a tremendous resource for students ofAsian history. And because the entire colonial experience iscovered for the first time within a single volume, Western Powerin Asia also provides the general reader with an unusual andinvaluable perspective on East- West relations. As countries such as China and India become key players on theworld stage, Western Power in Asia provides a timelyreminder of the path that led to their present positions, whileallowing a poignant opportunity to reflect on how they might infuture treat their Western trading partners.