The book offers an in-depth research of the economic situations along the Belt and Road and the initiative’s cooperation prospects, opportunities and challenges. It draws on economic data, including those on trade, investment, infrastructure, urban distribution, industrial cooperation, financial integration and revision of historical and political background. The Belt and Road initiative (BRI) comes from not only the ancient Silk Road, but also a long-term international cooperation between China and relevant countries. As a China-led initiative, the BRI is built upon China’s international vision according to its development process. Therefore, the book also discusses how China balances its own development process among different domestic regions, and how the Initiative fits into the changes of global economic system and brings positive change for developing and developed economies involved, on the long haul. Furthermore, this book aims to find out precise direction of the initiative in order to assess appropriate implication on development under current globalization and provide valuable experience for future economic synergetic development by reviewing the past cooperative experience as references for policy-making and prospective engagementIn terms of methodology, analyses were conducted applying multi-methods with best available evidence to enrich the understanding of the potential of the BRI in terms of socio-economic impact on cooperation and difference and similarities of economic, cultural characteristics and political system among countries.

This translation of collected articles by Yan Chen (1916–2016) examines the role of the Maritime Silk Road in the formation of world civilizations. Analyzing the Maritime Silk Road’s political, economic, cultural, and technological influence, Chen argues that this expansive trade network was vital to the spread of traditional Chinese culture.

Introduces readers to the cross-cultural study of ancient and classical civilizations. The book is divided into two sections, the first examining the ongoing interaction between ancient agrarian and nomadic societies and the second focusing on regional patterns in the dissemination of ideas.

This book breaks with convention and provides an overview of Chinese history in the form of special topics. These topics include the major issues of “A Scientific Approach to the Origins of Chinese Civilization,” “Ancient Chinese Society and the Change of Dynasties,” “The Golden Ages of the Han, Tang and Qing Dynasties: a Comparative Analysis,” “Transportation Systems and Cultural Communication in Ancient China,” “Ethnic Relations in Chinese History,” “The Systems of Politics, Law and Selecting Officials in Ancient China,” “Agriculture, Handicraft and Commerce in Ancient China,” “The Military Thought and Military Systems of Ancient China,” “The Rich and Colorful Social Life in Ancient China,” “The Evolution of Ancient Chinese Thought,” “The Treasure House of Ancient Chinese Literature and Art,” “The Emergence and Progress of Ancient Chinese Historiography,” “Reflection on Ancient Chinese Science and Technology,” “New Issues in the Modern History of China,” and “A General Progression to the Socialist Modernization of the People’s Republic of China.” The book is based on current literature and research by university students. The modern history section is relatively concise, while the topics related to ancient Chinese history are longer, reflecting the country’s rich history and corresponding wealth of materials. There is also an in-depth discussion on the socialist modernization of the People’s Republic of China. The book provides insights into Chinese history, allowing readers “to see the value of civilization through history; to see the preciseness of history through civilization.” It focuses on the social background, lifestyle and development processes to illustrate ideologies and ideas.

Museums, International Exhibitions and China’s Cultural Diplomacy examines the role museums and, more specifically, international exhibitions, have played in shaping China’s international image to date. Drawing on theories and methods from museum studies and international relations, the book evaluates the contribution international exhibitions make to China’s cultural diplomacy strategy. Considering their impact on the country’s international image, Kong also probes the mechanisms and processes involved, examining in detail the policy of, and international activities promoted by, the Chinese government. The book also analyses the motives of the Chinese and overseas museums that host these exhibitions. Taking some major exhibitions that were on show in the UK during the 21st century as a representative case study, the book reveals the mechanisms by which these exhibitions were developed and shared overseas. Questioning who really shapes the image of China, Kong challenges Western assumptions and looks ahead to consider whether, moving forward, the Chinese government and museums could work together in a mutually beneficial way. Museums, International Exhibitions and China’s Cultural Diplomacy contributes to the growing literature on museums and diplomacy. As such, it will be of interest to academics and students engaged in the study of museums and heritage, international relations, culture, politics, China and wider Asia.

China boasts a long history of foreign trade. As early as the pre-Qin period, residents of the country began to ship silk and other merchandise on outbound voyages. From the 2nd century BCE on, China has been connected to the rest of the world via the Overland Silk Road and the Maritime Silk Road initiated in the reign of Emperor Wu of the Western Han Dynasty.Trade relations between China and other regions in the world have been developing gradually and continuously. Trade has contributed to deepening economic and cultural exchanges between China and other countries. While benefiting the whole of humankind, Chinese civilization has also absorbed the achievements of other civilizations, allowing China and other countries to experience mutual benefits and advance together.This is the first volume in a series of books retelling the arduous development of China's foreign trade. It covers ancient times, recording China's foreign trade from the pre-Qin period to the early period of the Qing Dynasty.