Connectivity, Imperialism, and the Han Iron Industry

Lam Wengcheong's book combines archaeological and historical analyses to explore the economic and political mechanisms that gave birth to the Han iron industry,which was unique in the ancient world. He shows how iron production and transportation processes intersected with the transformation of the Han capital region in the Guanzhong basin,generating connectivity between various parts of the empire. The book will appeal to scholars interested in Chinese archaeology,the history of the Han empire,and economic history.

Format: Hardback
Length: 304 pages
Publication date: 05 August 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Lam Wengcheong's groundbreaking work combines archaeological and historical analyses to shed light on the enigmatic Han Iron Industry. By meticulously piecing together fragmented evidence and reorienting our gaze towards the economic and political mechanisms that gave rise to this remarkable industry,Lam provides a comprehensive account of the complex social, economic, and political landscape of ancient China.

Guiding readers through the macroscopic social settings of the iron industry, including distribution patterns of iron implements,Lam delves into the microscopic organization of workplace and workers' foodways. Through a comprehensive exploration of iron production and transportation processes,Lam demonstrates how these processes intersected with the transformation of the Han capital region in the Guanzhong basin.

By utilizing a diverse range of evidence from iron production in Guanzhong and its connections with other production centers,Lam showcases how the production and transportation of iron at various scales played a pivotal role in generating connectivity between different parts of the Western Han empire. This book offers a fresh perspective on the workings of the economic system in imperial China, shedding light on the intricate web of relationships and interactions that shaped the empire's development.

Connectivity, Imperialism, and the Han Iron Industry appeals to a wide range of interests, including Chinese archaeology, the history of the Han empire, the history of science and engineering in ancient China, as well as scholars engaged in comparative studies of ancient imperialism, market exchange, and economic history. With its rich insights and innovative approach,Lam's work contributes significantly to our understanding of ancient China and its complex historical trajectory.

Weight: 760g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032194479