The Golden Age of Piracy in China, 1520-1810: A Short History with Documents

During the "golden age of piracy" in China, there was an unprecedented advance in Chinese piracy, unmatched by anywhere else in the world. This book uses primary source documents to uncover the history of "dwarf bandits," "sea rebels," and "ocean bandits."

Format: Hardback
Length: 180 pages
Publication date: 30 March 2022
Publisher: Rowman & Littlefield

During the remarkable "golden age of piracy" that spanned nearly three centuries, the waters surrounding China witnessed an extraordinary surge in piracy, unmatched in its magnitude and scope anywhere else in the world. This captivating book delves into the rich history of "dwarf bandits," "sea rebels," and "ocean bandits" through the meticulous examination of primary source documents.

The era of piracy in China began in the early 11th century and continued until the early 18th century. During this time, Chinese pirates became notorious for their daring raids and attacks on merchant ships, both in the East China Sea and the South China Sea. These pirates were often referred to as "sea wolves" or "海盗" due to their ruthless tactics and fearless demeanor.

One of the most notable features of Chinese piracy was its organization and structure. Unlike other pirate groups, Chinese pirates were often led by powerful captains or warlords who had a vast network of followers and supporters. These pirates were well-equipped with advanced weapons and ships, and they often employed sophisticated tactics to outmaneuver their prey.

One of the most famous Chinese pirates was Zhang Cheng, also known as "Cheng Ho." Cheng Ho was a Chinese admiral and explorer who led a series of daring raids on the Portuguese Empire in the 15th and 16th centuries. He is credited with introducing the Chinese navy to the use of gunpowder weapons, which played a significant role in his success.

Another notable Chinese pirate was Li Zicheng, also known as "The Pirate King." Li Zicheng was a Chinese general who led a rebellion against the Qing dynasty in the late 18th century. He is believed to have been responsible for the deaths of thousands of Qing soldiers and civilians during his rebellion.

Despite the challenges and risks associated with piracy, it remained a popular occupation in China for many years. The rewards were substantial, and the risks were often outweighed by the potential for fame and fortune. However, the Chinese government eventually took steps to crack down on piracy, and the practice began to decline in the late 18th and early 19th centuries.

Today, the legacy of Chinese piracy remains a fascinating subject of study and research. Many books and documentaries have been produced to explore the history and culture of these notorious pirates, and their impact on the world of maritime trade and warfare.

In conclusion, the "golden age of piracy" in China was a remarkable period in history that witnessed an unprecedented advance in Chinese piracy. These pirates were known for their daring raids and attacks on merchant ships, and their organization and structure were often unmatched. Despite the challenges and risks associated with piracy, it remained a popular occupation for many years, and its legacy continues to be studied and celebrated today.

Weight: 417g
Dimension: 227 x 160 x 15 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781538161524