Synopses & Reviews
Synopsis
The period when the British were establishing political and commercial hegemony in Southeast Asia also saw the foundation of the present-day "Asian-tiger" economies. This book aims to show the importance of London capitalist interest, the vital role played by Indian capitalist and merchants in Southeast Asia and the importance of growing Chinese community as intermediaries between British and indigenous merchants. The author traces the steps leading to the consolidation of British interest including the acquisition of Penang, the results of a major war with European powers up to 1815, the growth of British and Indian industrial and commercial interest, the establishment of Singapore, the settlement of Anglo-Dutch relations, the expansion of British colonial administration and also "informal empire" in various Malay states, Sarawak and Siam and the conclusion of the Anglo-Burmese wars.
Synopsis
Through an exploration of British rule in southeast Asia between 1770-1890, this book shows the importance of Britain's political and commercial hegemony in creating present-day "Asian-tiger" economies in this region.
Anthony Webster stresses the importance of London capitalist interest, the role of Indian merchants and the growing Chinese community in developing regions in southeast Asia. Through this, this volume explores major events which led to this influence, including the acquisition of Penang, the defeat of European powers in the war of 1815, the growth of both British and Indian industries, the establishment of Singapore and the creation of an 'informal empire' in the Malay peninsular.