Asian History
The Rise of Hong Kong as a Global Hub
Discover how Hong Kong emerged as a global hub in the 19th century through the opium trade, Opium Wars, and British influence.
The First Opium War and the Cession of Hong Kong
Understand the First Opium War's impact on Sino-British relations, including the cession of Hong Kong and establishment of treaty ports with extraterritorial privileges.
The Great East-West Divergence: Understanding China's Economic Struggles
Understanding China's economic struggles through the lens of the East-West divergence, examining how macroeconomic luck, industrial development, and financial innovation contributed to its stagnation.
Japan's Wartime Welfare State
Japan's wartime welfare state emerged during World War II, rapidly expanding universal health insurance coverage from 500,000 to over 40 million citizens between 1938 and 1944.
The Evolution of the Japanese Welfare State
The evolution of Japan's welfare state from a garrison state to a comprehensive social security system driven by internal dynamics and external pressures.
Post-War Social Reforms in Japan: The Advent of Universal Welfare
Explore Japan's shift towards universal welfare after World War II, driven by government-led social reform and a recognition that private insurance markets were inadequate.
The Great Disaster: Japan's Turbulent Twentieth Century
Explore Japan's turbulent 20th century marked by devastating disasters, economic hardship, and war that left a lasting impact on its economy, society, and politics.