Kate McDonald, an Associate Professor of History at UC Santa Barbara specializing in Asian mobility and labor, sheds light on the rich narratives of transport history. She discusses her work on rickshaws and railroads, emphasizing the significance of human-powered transport in understanding labor dynamics. McDonald explores the historical protest movements of rickshaw pullers in Japan and promotes a more inclusive approach to technology studies. Her insights advocate for a global perspective that highlights marginalized voices in the history of mobility and labor.

Kate McDonald, an Associate Professor of History at UC Santa Barbara, dives into the intriguing intersection of Asian mobility and labor history. She shares insights from her current project on human-powered transport, revealing the cultural significance of rickshaws in Japan. The discussion includes riveting stories of rickshaw pullers' uprisings and their fight for rights amidst changing transportation systems. McDonald also explores her unique journey into mobility history, emphasizing the importance of diverse perspectives in understanding transportation's role in society.

In this discussion, Kate McDonald, an Associate Professor of History at UC Santa Barbara, explores Asian mobility from a labor perspective. She examines the history of human-powered transport, particularly rickshaws in Japan, and critiques the narratives of mechanization that overlook worker experiences. McDonald shares insights from her research projects, revealing how transportation has shaped labor movements and economic structures. Additionally, she reflects on the complex interplay of mobility, identity, and historical narratives in the context of colonialism.