Understanding China’s Indian Ocean Trade: Focusing on Shipwrecks (work in progress)

The dynastic histories of China document the trade of Tang-dynasty and Song-dynasty China (618-1275) with various countries in Southeast Asia. Listing the various commodities that were traded, they don’t provide many specifics about the scale of the trade. A series of shipwreck excavations in the Java Sea (which is not very deep with an average depth of 46m/151feet, always warm, and frequented by leisure divers) has provided historians with a trove of new evidence about connectivity in the region. One of the enduring puzzles is whether any countries dominated the sea trade in a given period—and what evidence might support such a conclusion.

The seminar will be held in-person only with lunch provided. To register, or ask questions, please email: keith.geriak@yale.edu.

We look forward to seeing you there!