Chinese Whispers Investigating China's 'historic' claims in the South China Sea
Sep 2, 2024
Tensions in the South China Sea are escalating, especially under Xi Jinping's leadership, with recent clashes between Chinese and Southeast Asian vessels. The nine-dash line, representing China's historic claims, is scrutinized for its actual origins. Discussions reveal a turbulent early 20th-century context of nationalism and foreign humiliation influencing these claims. The podcast also delves into maritime history, examining Zheng He's voyages and the complexities of territorial assertions shaped by mapping practices and international law.
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Pratas Island Dispute
- A Japanese businessman, Nishizawa Yoshiji, attempted to mine guano on Pratas Island.
- This sparked a nationalistic outcry in China, leading to the Qing Dynasty asserting its claim.
National Humiliation and the Islands
- The South China Sea islands hold significant emotional weight for China and Vietnam, linked to national humiliation.
- In contrast, the islands are not major patriotic causes in the Philippines or Malaysia.
Bai Meichu's Map
- Cartographer Bai Meichu drew a map encompassing the South China Sea, influencing China's claims.
- His map, based on misinterpreted translations and a sense of national humiliation, included non-existent islands.