In the centuries leading up to our own, the volume of traffic across Asian sea routes an area stretching from East Africa and the Middle East to Japan grew dramatically, eventually making them the busiest in the world. The result was a massive circulation of people, commodities, religion, culture, technology, and ideas. In this book, Eric Tagliacozzo chronicles how the seas and oceans of Asia have shaped the history of the largest continent for the past half millennium, leaving an indelible mark on the modern world in the process.
Paying special attention to migration, trade, the environment, and cities, In Asian Waters examines the long history of contact between China and East Africa, the spread of Hinduism and Buddhism across the Bay of Bengal, and the intertwined histories of Islam and Christianity in the Philippines. The book illustrates how India became central to the spice trade, how the Indian Ocean became a 'British lake' between the seventeenth and nineteenth centuries, and how lighthouses and sea mapping played important roles in imperialism. The volume ends by asking what may happen if China comes to rule the waves of Asia, as Britain once did.
A novel account showing how Asian history can be seen as a whole when seen from the water, In Asian Waters presents a voyage into a past that is still alive in the present.
'Drawing on years of travel, many archives, and countless dockside conversations, Eric Tagliacozzo's masterpiece shows how the connected past of maritime Asia has shaped our world. This is an epic yet intimate history of Asia's seas: alive with the drama of port cities, and told with grace and empathy by a natural storyteller.' Sunil Amrith, author ofUnruly Waters: How Rains, Rivers, Coasts, and Seas Have Shaped Asia's History
'Skillfully navigating the overlapping themes of environment and religion, imperial power and technology, and urbanism and trade, Eric Tagliacozzo has written a magnificent oceanic history of a continent.In Asian Waters takes its readers on an adventurous voyage of discovery, tracing historical connections from the Arabian Sea through the Bay of Bengal to the South China Sea.' Sugata Bose, author ofA Hundred Horizons: The Indian Ocean in the Age of Global Empire
In the centuries leading up to our own, the volume of traffic across Asian sea routes an area stretching from East Africa and the Middle East to Japan grew dramatically, eventually making them the busiest in the world. The result was a massive circulation of people, commodities, religion, culture, technology, and ideas. In this book, Eric Tagliacozzo chronicles how the seas and oceans of Asia have shaped the history of the largest continent for the past half millennium, leaving an indelible mark on the modern world in the process.
Paying special attention to migration, trade, the environment, and cities, In Asian Waters examines the long history of contact between China and East Africa, the spread of Hinduism and Buddhism across the Bay of Bengal, and the intertwined histories of Islam and Christianity in the Philippines. The book illustrates how India became central to the spice trade, how the Indian Ocean became a 'British lake' between the seventeenth and nineteenth centuries, and how lighthouses and sea mapping played important roles in imperialism. The volume ends by asking what may happen if China comes to rule the waves of Asia, as Britain once did.
A novel account showing how Asian history can be seen as a whole when seen from the water, In Asian Waters presents a voyage into a past that is still alive in the present.
'Drawing on years of travel, many archives, and countless dockside conversations, Eric Tagliacozzo's masterpiece shows how the connected past of maritime Asia has shaped our world. This is an epic yet intimate history of Asia's seas: alive with the drama of port cities, and told with grace and empathy by a natural storyteller.' Sunil Amrith, author ofUnruly Waters: How Rains, Rivers, Coasts, and Seas Have Shaped Asia's History
'Skillfully navigating the overlapping themes of environment and religion, imperial power and technology, and urbanism and trade, Eric Tagliacozzo has written a magnificent oceanic history of a continent.In Asian Waters takes its readers on an adventurous voyage of discovery, tracing historical connections from the Arabian Sea through the Bay of Bengal to the South China Sea.' Sugata Bose, author ofA Hundred Horizons: The Indian Ocean in the Age of Global Empire
While bok choy is now a staple on Western grocery store shelves, other Asian vegetables remain unknown-even though they're delicious, nutritious, and easy to grow in northern climates.Caroline,...
BookLoop is your trusted local Australian destination for books, games, toys, puzzles, tarot cards, stationery, and thoughtful gifts, offering a huge range of carefully curated products for curious minds of all ages. As a proudly Australian-owned bookstore, we are passionate about connecting our community with inspiring reads, creative play, and unique finds that bring joy, spark imagination, and support lifelong learning. Whether you're shopping for bestselling fiction, children’s picture books, educational resources, or non-fiction titles that encourage mental health, mindfulness, and personal growth, our ever-expanding book collection has something for everyone—including titles from local Australian authors that celebrate homegrown talent and storytelling. But we’re more than just a bookstore—our diverse range includes engaging puzzles for solo or family fun, educational and screen-free toys designed to develop skills and creativity, and family-friendly board games that bring people together. If you're looking for something with a little extra meaning, our beautifully illustrated tarot cards and oracle decks are perfect for beginners and seasoned readers alike, with options chosen for their artistry, symbolism, and accessibility. We also carry a range of gifts and stationery, from handcrafted journals and high-quality pens to bookmarks, greeting cards, candles, and calming tools, making it easy to find the perfect present for birthdays, celebrations, or simply because. Every product on our shelves is selected with care, quality, and purpose, making BookLoop a one-stop shop for thoughtful, meaningful shopping that supports creativity and wellbeing. We believe in the value of small business and community connection, which is why we’re committed to sourcing products that reflect our values and offering the kind of friendly, personalised service that big retailers can’t match. When you shop with us, you’re not only choosing beautifully curated items—you’re supporting a local Australian business that genuinely cares. We ship Australia-wide with a flat rate to keep things simple and affordable, and every order is carefully packed and quickly dispatched by our small, dedicated team. Our online shopping experience is safe, easy, and user-friendly, making it convenient to explore our wide range of books, gifts, and games from the comfort of home. We’ve seen a growing demand for titles and toys that support mental health, especially in children and teens, and we’re proud to stock a growing number of books on ADHD, emotional regulation, positive thinking, and self-esteem, as well as calming puzzles and sensory-friendly gifts that are both fun and supportive. Whether you're looking to inspire a young reader, encourage imaginative play, find your next favourite novel, or gift someone something truly special, BookLoop has you covered. Thank you for choosing to shop local and support a business that believes in the power of stories, creativity, and connection—explore our full collection today and experience the difference of thoughtful, heart-led retail with BookLoop.
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