Sinology during the Cold War

This book is the first study of the history of sinology (aka China studies) as charted across several communist states during the Cold War. It provides invaluable and unique glimpses of Soviet Bloc sinologists and their work, including cutting-edge research on lesser-studied communist states such as Poland, Hungary, and Mongolia.

Format: Hardback
Length: 276 pages
Publication date: 19 May 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This comprehensive volume offers the first in-depth exploration of the history of sinology, also known as China studies, as it unfolded across several communist states during the Cold War era. The People's Republic of China emerged as a major player on the global stage in the early years of the Cold War, and its early history and foreign policy were intricately intertwined with the broader geopolitical struggles of the time. The seismic shifts in China's geopolitical landscape, including its emergence as a close ally of the Soviet Union, the subsequent Sino-Soviet split, and the eventual reconciliation with the United States, generated significant interest among journalists, politicians, and scholars alike.

Despite the remarkable output of scholars across the Soviet Bloc in the field of sinology, with a few notable exceptions, their work remains largely unknown outside their respective intellectual circles. This book aims to rectify this lack of awareness by presenting invaluable insights into the lives and work of Soviet Bloc sinologists during the Cold War. It offers a rich tapestry of information, including cutting-edge research on lesser-studied communist states such as Poland, Hungary, Mongolia, and others.

With its international scope, this book is a valuable resource for scholars and researchers interested in modern history, Chinese studies, sinology, and the Cold War. It sheds light on the complex interplay between politics, culture, and academia during this pivotal period, providing a deeper understanding of the global dynamics that shaped the 20th century.

Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032009742