| America's First Adventure in China: Trade, Treaties, Opium, and Salvation Contributor(s): Haddad, John R. (Author) |
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ISBN: 1439906890 ISBN-13: 9781439906897 Publisher: Temple University Press OUR PRICE: $77.43 Product Type: Hardcover - Other Formats Published: March 2013 |
| Additional Information |
| BISAC Categories: - History | Asia - China - History | United States - 19th Century - Political Science | International Relations - General |
| Dewey: 327.730 |
| LCCN: 2012040901 |
| Physical Information: 1.1" H x 6.1" W x 9.1" (1.20 lbs) 264 pages |
| Themes: - Cultural Region - Chinese - Chronological Period - 19th Century |
| Descriptions, Reviews, Etc. |
| Publisher Description: In 1784, when Americans first voyaged to China, they confronted Chinese authorities who were unaware that the United States even existed. Nevertheless, a long, complicated, and fruitful trade relationship was born after American traders, missionaries, diplomats, and others sailed to China with lofty ambitions: to acquire fabulous wealth, convert China to Christianity, and even command a Chinese army. In "America's First Adventure in China," John Haddad provides a colorful history of the evolving cultural exchange and interactions between these countries. He recounts how American expatriates adopted a pragmatic attitude-as well as an entrepreneurial spirit and improvisational approach-to their dealings with the Chinese. Haddad shows how opium played a potent role in the dreams of Americans who either smuggled it or opposed its importation, and he considers the missionary movement that compelled individuals to accept a hard life in an alien culture. As a result of their efforts, Americans achieved a favorable outcomeOCothey established a unique presence in ChinaOCoand cultivated a relationship whose complexities continue to grow. |