Lecture delivered by Assistant Professor Atsushi Kobayashi at the Center for Southeast Asian Studies, Kyoto University.
Focuses on Modern Asian Economic History, particularly the 19th century economic development of Southeast Asia.
Research Focus
Examines international trade and finance in Southeast Asia during the 19th century.
Interested in the economic drivers behind these phenomena.
Influence of British Industrial Revolution on Singapore's Economy
Singapore was a British colony: large quantities of British goods entered and were distributed throughout Southeast Asia.
Sources: Business newspapers like The Singapore Free Press.
Example: Prices of British cotton garments (gray shirtings) in 1850 ($2.2-$2.4) and 1864 ($3.5-$6).
Observations: Long-term price trends show initial decrease post-Industrial Revolution, a sharp increase during the American Civil War due to raw cotton supply disruption.
Impact of the American Civil War on Singapore's Economy
Raw cotton supply disruption led to increased prices of cotton garments in Singapore.
Demonstrates the global impact of distant events on local markets.
Influence of the American Gold Rush on Singapore's Economy
19th century Asia widely used silver coins.
Trade statistics: Singapore's silver coin imports in 1847 (zero), 1857 (significant imports from Britain and France).
Gold rushes in California and Australia: New gold increased European money circulation. Europe exported silver coins to Asia.
Silver coin usage in Laos and Japan: Singapore facilitated the spread of silver coins, stimulating the economic activities and trade in Asia.
Reassessment of Southeast Asian History
Traditional view describes 19th-century Southeast Asia negatively due to Western colonization.
Economic data reveals active local participation in driving the economy.
A continuous, long-term economic development perspective offers a more positive view.
Understanding historical economic developments helps connect to the modern economy.
Importance of Historical Perspective
Acknowledge the significance of historical documents.
Emphasizes the importance of a Southeast Asia-centered historical perspective.
Fieldwork: Combines historical documents with direct observation of current societies and cultures.
Case study: Sarawak State, Malaysia (impact of deforestation on local lives).
Direct observations enrich an Asia-centered historical perspective, allowing for a clearer understanding of regional economic history and development.