Provincializing Empire: Omi Merchants in the Japanese Transpacific Diaspora

Provincializing Empire explores the global history of Japanese expansion through the role of expeditionary merchants from Ōmi, rethinking the nation-centered geography and chronology of empire and tracing their lives from the early modern era to create a transpacific diaspora.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 378 pages
Publication date: 21 February 2023
Publisher: University of California Press

Provincializing Empire delves into the intricate tapestry of global history, shedding light on the expansive journey of the Japanese empire through a regional lens. By reexamining the traditional nation-centered geography and chronology of empire, this groundbreaking work uncovers the profound influence of expeditionary merchants hailing from Ōmi (present-day Shiga Prefecture) and their contemporary counterparts. Tracing the lives of these remarkable individuals from the early modern era, Jun Uchida weaves their stories into the broader narratives of empire, diaspora, and capitalism, presenting a novel and captivating analysis of expansion.

Through this captivating narrative, Uchida unveils how the nation's provincials, drawing upon their rich traditions, forged a transpacific diaspora that spanned from Seoul to Vancouver. Moreover, their contributions played a pivotal role in shaping the modern world of transoceanic exchange, leaving an indelible mark on the global landscape.

Provincializing Empire is a groundbreaking work that challenges our understanding of empire and its historical trajectory. By delving into the lives of these expeditionary merchants and their descendants, Uchida offers a fresh perspective on the complex web of interactions and exchanges that shaped the world we inhabit today. This book is a must-read for scholars, students, and anyone interested in exploring the rich tapestry of global history.

Weight: 614g
Dimension: 152 x 230 x 27 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780520390119