Empire Careers

Discover the intriguing world of foreign nationals in China with Empire Careers by Catherine Ladds. Published by Manchester University Press in 2016, this captivating paperback delves into the lives of 11,000 foreign workers who served in the Chinese Customs Service from 1854 to 1949. Spanning 256 pages, the book offers a comprehensive examination of how imperial ideologies and complex networks shaped their professional and personal lives.

Through meticulous research, Ladds explores the interplay between these individuals' careers, social activities, and private lives, all while contextualizing their experiences within the shifting political landscape of the time. Empire Careers is an essential read for anyone interested in the dynamics of foreign influence in China and the historical implications of globalization. Uncover the rich narratives of these officials and employees, and gain insights into a pivotal era in Chinese history.