Heather Sutherland

Heather Sutherland, Emeritus Professor at Freie Universitat Amsterdam and author of "Seaways and Gatekeepers," discusses the rich trade history of Southeast Asia from 1600 to 1906. She challenges traditional state-centric narratives by highlighting the significance of maritime connections and seasonal meeting places in trade. Sutherland emphasizes the impact of innovations like the Suez Canal on trade dynamics and the intricate relationships between local communities and trans-oceanic shippers, showcasing how these factors shaped regional interactions and identities.