The China History Podcast

Dive into the enigmatic life of Lin Biao, a key figure in Mao's regime, as his journey unfolds from a young rebel to a top ally. Discover the power dynamics and ambitions that marked their relationship during revolutionary times. Explore the tensions surrounding Lin's succession aspirations amid chaos in Mao's China. Unravel the psychological struggles faced by Lin after pivotal military decisions turned controversial. This complex tale sets the stage for an unforgettable incident that remains shrouded in mystery.

The discussion dives into William McKinley's high tariff policies and their impact on American industries. It examines the shifting trade dynamics between the U.S. and China in the 1890s, spotlighting America's aspirations as a Pacific power. The narrative reveals the complexities of late 19th-century American imperialism, illustrated through political cartoons. Additionally, it highlights the evolution of U.S.-China relations and the lasting effects of China's century of humiliation. Historical lessons emphasize the need for improved international relations.

This is the second of a two-part mini-series introducing the world of European plant hunting in China. In this episode, we look at some of the more noteworthy names and their accomplishments. After the exploits of Robert Fortune, many other plant hunters followed in his footsteps to China. We'll look at Henry Fletcher Hance, Père David, Augustine Henry, Ernest Wilson, and George Forrest, among others. Thanks to all for for listening. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

I was afraid I'd barely be able to scrape together enough material for a short episode. Instead, this one is gonna take almost two hours to tell. I hope no one minds that I opted not to drown anyone with Latin names and to go easy on the scientific aspects behind plants. The focus will be on the European and later, American plant hunters who came to China between the 16th and 20th centuries. This episode will look at some of the exploits of the early Jesuit missionaries up through Robert Fortune's four trips to China. Next time in Part 2, all the famous post-Fortune plant hunters will be featured. Be looking for that soon.  If you'd like to support the China History Podcast and listen ad-free and get new episodes weeks or months early: CHP Premium: https://teacupmedianetwork.supercast.com/ CHP Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/TheChinaHistoryPodcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Calling all fans of podcast great, Lindsay Graham! Here's a sampling of the very popular podcast, History Daily. On History Daily, they do history, daily. Every weekday, host Lindsay Graham (American Scandal, American History Tellers) takes you back in time to explore a momentous event that happened ‘on this day’ in history. Whether it’s to remember the tragedy of December 7th, 1941, the day “that will live in infamy,” or to celebrate that 20th day in July 1969, when humankind reached the moon, History Daily is there to tell you the true stories of the people and events that shaped our world—one day at a time. So if you’re stuck in traffic, bored at work—wherever you are, listen to History Daily to remind yourself that something incredible happened to make that day historic. A co-production from award-winning podcasters Airship and Noiser. LINKS to HISTORY DAILY SPOTIFY: https://open.spotify.com/show/31PSVhUGECv1bdBfPSv3Nf?si=6ed7018e08084034 APPLE: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/history-daily/id1591095413 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Former BBC reporter and master jade carver Andrew Shaw is back. What an informative interview this one turned out to be! I hope you all enjoy this discussion of the history and legends behind jade. I learned quite a bit during this brief talk. I hope you do too.   Links to Andrew Shaw's books about jade: "A Jade Treasury" https://a.co/d/f2ynsRF  "Jade Life" https://a.co/d/0yvYPbZ CCTV Documentary https://youtu.be/GWxFucq1o60?si=rsMeqqjMgy9Fbrg-  

I welcomed Wuhan-based Andrew Shaw onto the CHP to talk about his book. It's all about the plundering of China's cultural treasures and imperial artifacts by not just the British, French, and Americans. It seems everyone got in on the act. Even the local people. It's a miracle there was anything left for Chian's museums. Many of you are familiar with the stories about looting that took place in China between the 1840s and the turn of the century. In Andrew Shaw's book, "Spoil" we'll look at the extent of what happened. And on the next episode, we'll feature Andrew again, this time talking about his new book on the history of jade. That's coming February 16th. Of course, Patreon and CHP Premium subscribers will get to hear it a couple weeks earlier. Here's the link if you're interested. https://www.patreon.com/c/TheChinaHistoryPodcast Amazon Link to "Spoil" by Mr. Andrew Shaw: https://a.co/d/12c6kPF Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

With the Singapore History series out of the way, and 2025 off and running, here's the first special interview episode of the year. Not too long ago, I had the pleasure of interviewing Mr. Joel Bigman, author of a new book called "The Second Journey." If you're familiar with the Ming Dynasty novel "Journey to the West," this one by Joel might sound familiar. You might never look at "Journey to the West" the same way again. This was quite an interesting and unique story that combined two ancient cultures. It's been called “The World’s first Chinese-Jewish Historical Fantasy.” Nuff said. I hope you enjoy this interview. Here's a link to the book: https://a.co/d/9oRyiN8 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Explore the riveting transformation of Singapore, from its beginnings as a Malay sultanate to a modern global leader. Dive into the impactful political evolution and infrastructure projects like the iconic Changi Airport. Discover the unique diplomatic tensions with the U.S., the aftermath of controversies, and Singapore's remarkable economic resilience during crises. Reflect on the country's cherished multiracial identity, alongside heartfelt moments from a recent trip, sprinkled with light humor about boat insurance!

Discover how Singapore's leaders banded together during critical times, with S. Rajaratnam championing the nation's diplomatic efforts. Learn about Dr. Albert Winsemius and his pivotal economic recommendations that shaped Singapore's future. Explore the remarkable contributions of Dr. Goh Keng Swee, who implemented transformative policies and attracted global investments. Finally, delve into Singapore's rapid economic growth from the 1960s onward, emphasizing the importance of education and infrastructure in steering the nation to success.