Economy

Economic history deals with daily life, but also goes beyond that to interpret the important turning points which made daily life possible. This book demonstrates why Hong Kong was so successful as a commercial, industrial and financial city at different times in its history and how these major changes made an impact on the life of its people. The documents selected for inclusion illustrate vividly problems confronted by entrepreneur and government at every stage in these changes. An outline history provided in the general introduction and to every chapter brings coherence to the different themes which emerge throughout the book.

Dr David Faure, University Lecturer in Modern Chinese History, University of Oxford, has written extensive about Chinese history and Hong Kong history. In addition to this volume he edited A Documentary History of Hong Kong: Society. Dr Lee Pui-tak is a research officer and honorary lecturer at the Centre of Asian Studies, The University of Hong Kong. His research interests include the history of Hong Kong and modern China.

“It will be treasured for its strong historical dimension, solid documents, and insightful statements. The appropriate selection of sources will please not only professional socioeconomic historians, but also the reading public with highly interesting and important topics ranging from the voice of business, the legal infrastructure, to the opium issue, the sterling crisis, and so on.” —Professor Yip Hon Ming, History Department, The Chinese University of Hong Kong

“This book has provided in one place the most useful research materials for studying the economic history of Hong Kong, a subject which deserves more attention. The thematic approach is most helpful and the introductory comments to the book and each chapter are extremely insightful. It is highly recommended for serious researchers and general readers alike.” —Edward K. Y. Chen, President, Lingnan University