Description
Book SynopsisProvides an account of the evolution of Hong Kong's politics from its colonial foundations onwards. Exploring the interplay between colonial, capitalist, communist, and democratic forces in shaping Hong Kong's political institutions and political culture, the author also offers a blow-by-blow account of the post-1997 handover to China.
Trade ReviewThis book is a commendable effort which not only offers insight into the critical issues surrounding Hong Kong's political history but also appeals to the imagination by allowing the reader to get as close as possible to voices of the past. As such, it would be a useful point of reference for scholars of Chinese history, politics and international affairs. * The China Journal *
Fascinating. * China Review *
It certainly is refreshing to see a book which goes against common wisdom on this subject. It is, as a whole, notable for its very thorough criticism of the British authorities. . . . Pepper's book provides a necessary overview of a very important question in modern Chinese history. * China Quarterly *
Table of ContentsChapter 1: Hong Kong, China, and the West Part I: Colonial Foundations Chapter 2: The Original Inheritance Chapter 3: Crown Colony Rule, 1841–1941 Chapter 4: Chinese "Self-Government" Part II: Autocrats, Communists, and Reformers Chapter 5: New Beginnings, Old Solutions Chapter 6: The Cold War Reaches Hong Kong Chapter 7: Showcase Democracy Chapter 8: A 1960s Rebellion and Its Aftermath Chapter 9: Progress without Political Reform Chapter 10: Political Reform without Independence Chapter 11: A Political Community in the Making Chapter 12: Better Late Than Never? Part III: Under Chinese Rule Chapter 13: Crossing the 1997 Divide Chapter 14: Reaffirmation and Retreat Chapter 15: Conservative Counter-Currents Chapter 16: Checkmate
