Empire of the Winds: The Global Role of Asia's Great Archipelago

Nusantara, also known as Maritime Southeast Asia, is the world's largest archipelago and a vital cultural and trading hub. It encompasses the lands and shores created by the melting of the ice following the last Ice Age and has been primarily the domain of the Austronesian-speaking peoples. Philip Bowring provides a history of the archipelago and its adjacent coasts, from its birth to today.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 336 pages
Publication date: 17 September 2020
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

Nusantaria, also known as Maritime Southeast Asia, holds the prestigious title of being the world's largest archipelago. For centuries, it has served as a vibrant cultural and trading hub, holding immense significance on a global scale. The term "Nusantara," originating from Sanskrit and later adopted by Malays, originally referred to an island realm. However, in this context, it has evolved to encompass a slightly broader world, yet still maintains a unified linguistic, cultural, and trading base.

Nusantaria encompasses the vast lands and shores that emerged as a result of the melting of ice following the last Ice Age. These regions have historically been the domain of the Austronesian-speaking peoples, renowned for their seafaring traditions. The surrounding waters, in particular, have played a crucial role as a vital corridor connecting East Asia to India, the Middle East, Europe, and Africa.

In this captivating book, Philip Bowring delves into the history of Nusantaria and its adjacent coasts. He unravels the story of the diverse peoples and lands situated at this crucial maritime and cultural crossroads, spanning from its birth following the last Ice Age to the present day. Through meticulous research and vivid storytelling, Bowring provides readers with a comprehensive understanding of the archipelago's rich tapestry, its historical influences, and its ongoing significance in shaping the world's geopolitical landscape.

Nusantaria's geographical expanse is truly remarkable, encompassing a vast array of islands and archipelagos. Each island boasts its own unique cultural heritage, influenced by a combination of indigenous traditions, foreign influences, and the ever-changing dynamics of trade and migration. From the bustling cities of Southeast Asia to the remote and picturesque islands of the Pacific, Nusantaria showcases a remarkable diversity of landscapes and ecosystems.

The archipelago's strategic location has played a pivotal role in its historical development. It has served as a crossroads for trade, commerce, and cultural exchange between various civilizations throughout the ages. The sea routes connecting Nusantaria to other regions have facilitated the movement of goods, ideas, and people, contributing to the growth and prosperity of civilizations.

One of the most notable features of Nusantaria is its linguistic diversity. The Austronesian languages, which originated in the region, are spoken by millions of people across the archipelago. These languages have played a crucial role in shaping the cultural identity of the peoples of Nusantaria and have facilitated communication and cooperation among different communities.

In addition to its cultural and linguistic richness, Nusantaria has also been a hub of scientific and technological innovation. The archipelago has a rich history of maritime exploration, with ancient seafarers venturing into the unknown waters to discover new territories and trade routes. This exploration has led to the discovery of valuable resources, the development of new trade networks, and the spread of knowledge and ideas across the world.

Despite its many achievements, Nusantaria has faced challenges and disruptions throughout its history. The arrival of European powers in the 16th century marked a significant turning point, as the archipelago became a focal point of colonialism and exploitation. The exploitation of natural resources, the forced labor of indigenous peoples, and the imposition of foreign cultures have had profound impacts on the local communities and ecosystems.

However, Nusantaria has also demonstrated resilience and adaptability. The archipelago has undergone a process of cultural revival and renewal, with efforts to preserve and promote indigenous traditions, languages, and customs. There has also been a growing recognition of the importance of sustainable development and environmental conservation, with initiatives to protect the fragile marine ecosystems and promote sustainable practices in agriculture and industry.

In conclusion, Nusantaria is a remarkable archipelago that holds immense cultural, historical, and economic significance. Its vast lands and shores, diverse linguistic heritage, strategic location, and rich cultural tapestry make it a truly unique and fascinating region. Despite facing challenges and disruptions, Nusantaria has demonstrated resilience and adaptability, and its potential for growth and development remains immense. As we continue to explore and understand this remarkable world, we can appreciate the immense contributions of the peoples and lands of Nusantaria to the global story.

Weight: 590g
Dimension: 158 x 233 x 23 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781350162341