A Maritime Vietnam: From Earliest Times to the Nineteenth Century

Li Tana's book presents a new argument about Vietnamese history, suggesting that key political changes resulted from the impact of the sea. He argues that Vietnam was shaped by dynamic littoral economic and cultural contact, challenging traditional perceptions of an inward-looking society dominated by Chinese cultural influence.

Format: Hardback
Length: 354 pages
Publication date: 01 February 2024
Publisher: Cambridge University Press

Despite its vast 3,000-kilometer coastline, Vietnam is often overlooked as a maritime nation. However, in her groundbreaking work, Li Tana presents a compelling argument about the historical significance of the sea in shaping Vietnam's past. Through meticulous research of Chinese, Vietnamese, and Japanese sources, Li unveils a rich and detailed account that spans two millennia before colonization. This transformative study challenges prevailing notions of Vietnam as an inward-looking society dominated by Chinese cultural influence. Instead, Li reveals that Vietnam's history is best understood when viewed against the backdrop of the sea.

The sea played a pivotal role in shaping Vietnam's economic and cultural development. It facilitated trade and commerce, connecting Vietnam to neighboring regions and the world. The coastal communities, influenced by the sea, developed unique traditions, languages, and customs that set them apart from their inland counterparts. The sea also provided a natural defense barrier, protecting Vietnam from external threats.

Li's work highlights the dynamic littoral economic and cultural contact that shaped Vietnam's history. The country's coastline was home to a diverse range of ethnic groups, each with their own unique traditions and practices. These groups interacted and exchanged goods, ideas, and technologies, contributing to the development of a vibrant and diverse society. The sea also facilitated the spread of religions, such as Buddhism and Confucianism, which played a significant role in shaping Vietnam's cultural identity.

In conclusion, Li Tana's work offers a fresh perspective on Vietnamese history, emphasizing the role of the sea in shaping the country's past. By challenging traditional perceptions and highlighting the dynamic littoral economic and cultural contact, Li provides a valuable contribution to our understanding of Vietnam's rich and complex history. The sea continues to play a significant role in Vietnam's present and future, and it is essential to recognize its historical significance in shaping the country's identity and development.

Weight: 683g
ISBN-13: 9781009237635