The Asian Century: A History of Modern Nationalism in Asia examines the transformation of Asia from a region defined by disparate cultural traditions to one unified by its response to Western imperialism and its revolutionary embrace of modernity. The author argues that until the 19th century, Asia lacked a cohesive history, fragmented into Islamic, Hindu-Buddhist, and Sinic cultural spheres with limited interaction. However, European dominance from the 19th century onward imposed a new unity, catalyzing a revolutionary period of political independence, social transformation, and scientific and technological progress.
The book traces Asia's rediscovery of its own identity through its engagement with Europe, highlighting the pivotal 20th-century movements that ended colonial rule and set the stage for modernization. Central to this narrative are the revolutionary changes in Japan, China, India, and other nations, which embraced science, reformed social structures, and pursued political sovereignty. The impact of the Russian Revolution and Soviet influence also played a critical role in shaping modern Asian societies.
While acknowledging the destructive legacy of colonialism, the author also recognizes the infrastructure, education, and administrative frameworks introduced by imperial powers as factors that facilitated Asia's modernization. The study integrates perspectives from across the continent, including Soviet Asia, and emphasizes the ongoing challenge of creating a global unity that transcends historical antagonisms. Ultimately, the work views the Asian revolution not only as a regional awakening but as a significant step toward the unification of humanity and a more equitable global order.
This title is part of UC Press's Voices Revived program, which commemorates University of California Press’s mission to seek out and cultivate the brightest minds and give them voice, reach, and impact. Drawing on a backlist dating to 1893, Voices Revived makes high-quality, peer-reviewed scholarship accessible once again using print-on-demand technology. This title was originally published in 1962.