Asia After Versailles: Asian Perspectives on the Paris Peace Conference and the Interwar Order, 1919-33

Asia After Versailles explores the response to the Paris Peace Conference of 1919, highlighting the significant but neglected role of Asian nations in this global transformation. It brings together experts in the history of China, Japan, India, and the Ottoman Empire/Turkey to demonstrate the importance of Asia in the multifaceted global transformations that revolved around the conference and its aftermath.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 208 pages
Publication date: 30 November 2018
Publisher: Edinburgh University Press

Asia After Versailles: A Neglected Watershed for Asian Nations
The Paris Peace Conference of 1919 marked a significant turning point in world history, not only for Europe but for the entire world. The conference, which was held in Paris, France, brought an end to a conflict that had globalized the world in numerous ways, including politically, economically, culturally, and socially. It also signaled the beginning of a new order in which the power center shifted towards the United States and Asia. However, despite the significant role played by Asian countries and people in this momentous development, their contributions have often been overlooked or neglected in traditional historical analysis.

To address this gap, Asia After Versailles brings together an international range of experts in the history of China, Japan, India, and the Ottoman Empire/Turkey. This pioneering volume demonstrates the importance of Asia in the multifaceted global transformations that revolved around the Paris Peace Conference and its aftermath. By examining the perspectives of non-western, particularly Asian voices, the book challenges the traditional historical narrative that focuses almost exclusively on US and European responses to the conference and the interwar order.

One of the key contributions of Asia After Versailles is its exploration of the impact of Versailles on Asian nations. The conference resulted in the establishment of new political boundaries, the redrawing of economic relationships, and the reshaping of cultural and social norms. These changes had profound consequences for Asian countries, and the book highlights the ways in which they responded to these challenges. For example, the conference led to the establishment of new nation-states in Asia, such as India and China, and the redrawing of borders in the region. This led to the displacement of millions of people and the creation of new political and economic power dynamics.

Another important aspect of Asia After Versailles is its examination of the role of Asian countries in the interwar period. The conference was followed by a period of economic instability and political unrest, and Asian countries played a significant role in these developments. The book explores the ways in which Asian countries responded to these challenges, including through the development of new economic policies, the promotion of international trade, and the establishment of diplomatic relations.

In addition to its historical analysis, Asia After Versailles also provides valuable insights into the contemporary implications of Versailles. The conference's legacy continues to shape the political and economic landscape of Asia, and the book highlights the ways in which Asian countries are continuing to navigate the challenges of globalization and regional integration. It also explores the ways in which Asian countries are seeking to assert their influence in the global arena and the challenges they face in doing so.

One of the challenges facing Asian countries in the contemporary period is the rise of China. China's economic growth has been unprecedented, and it has become a major player in the global economy. However, China's rise has also led to tensions with other countries in the region, particularly Japan and India. The book explores the ways in which Asian countries are responding to these challenges, including through the development of new economic policies, the promotion of international trade, and the establishment of diplomatic relations.

Another challenge facing Asian countries is the impact of climate change. Climate change is a global issue, but its effects are particularly severe in Asia. The book explores the ways in which Asian countries are responding to this challenge, including through the development of new environmental policies, the promotion of sustainable development, and the establishment of international cooperation.

In conclusion, Asia After Versailles is a pioneering volume that demonstrates the importance of Asia in the multifaceted global transformations that revolved around the Paris Peace Conference and its aftermath. By examining the perspectives of non-western, particularly Asian voices, the book challenges the traditional historical narrative that focuses almost exclusively on US and European responses to the conference and the interwar order. The book provides valuable insights into the historical and contemporary implications of Versailles, and it highlights the ways in which Asian countries are seeking to assert their influence in the global arena and the challenges they face in doing so.

Weight: 408g
Dimension: 157 x 235 x 16 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781474441025