Review: Pacific Strife. the Great Powers and Their Political and Economic Rivalries in Asia and the Western Pacific 1870–1914,

van der Meer, Arnout H.C. (2016-01-01). "Review: Pacific Strife. the Great Powers and Their Political and Economic Rivalries in Asia and the Western Pacific 1870–1914,". Bijdragen Tot De Taal-, Land- En Volkenkunde / Journal of the Humanities and Social Sciences of Southeast Asia. 172 (4): 556–558. doi:10.1163/22134379-17204011. ISSN 2213-4379 0006-2294, 2213-4379 .

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Abstract: A review of “Pacific Strife: The Great Powers and Their Political and Economic Rivalries in Asia and the Western Pacific 1870–1914” by Kees van Dijk. The review outlines Van Dijk’s examination of the political and economic tensions among the great powers—European, American, and Japanese—during this historical period. The book delves into the rivalry primarily driven by the desire to expand economic opportunities, with China being a key area of interest.

The review notes that the first two chapters effectively set the stage by discussing technological advancements that facilitated increased competition in the Pacific. Van Dijk emphasizes the significance of agents like missionaries and traders, whose activities often influenced governmental policies. The narrative progresses through various phases, including the Russo-Japanese War and the American-Japanese rivalry for hegemony in the Pacific.

While the book is based largely on published primary and secondary sources, the review mentions that it suffers from a lack of a clear introduction and engaging with existing literature or theories on imperialism and diplomacy, although it does provide insightful observations. Overall, the book is characterized as a well-written resource for scholars and students interested in Pacific history during this era.

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MAG: 2574143916
OpenAlex: W2574143916
CorpusID: 132085459