I think I'm an enthusiast who enjoys inquiring into the continuous and theoretical narratives of the past. Associate Professor of Chinese maritime history @LSE
London, England
Joined February 2017
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For reasons both mysterious and compelling, I’ve long felt drawn to Taiwan. Still, I never expected I’d one day devote a book to this remarkable island. Many thanks to @ColumbiaUP, Caelyn, and Howard for their support. Link below; pre-orders available.
@lsehistory
Very pleased to see this appear in AEON. Writing for a general readership is always a useful reminder of the importance of clarity and rhythm. I hope you may enjoy reading it!
aeon.co/essays/china-and-the…
Truly grateful for Ilay's thoughtful review of Shaping the Blue Dragon @LSEReviewBooks, it's a comfort simply to be understood. Thanks also to Knowledge Unlatched, the book is now open access. Yet if you (like me) enjoy scribbling in the margins, the hardback is still available!
From Goody to Sharman, the idea of “unconquered states” helps rethink global history, not as European expansion but as negotiation and resilience. Also a timely lens for late imperial China, beyond Fairbank and agency debates. Honoured to be on this panel—join us @lsehistory !
Ron Po retweeted
For The Guardian, I wrote about the current moment in history: ARE WE AT A TURNING POINT IN WORLD HISTORY? theguardian.com/commentisfre…
As Chinese New Year approaches, I’m honoured to give my first public talk of the year this Thursday at Cambridge, exploring the cultural history of shark fins. This is not an endorsement but a reflection on tradition, culture, and sustainability. ames.cam.ac.uk/whats-on/chin…
Ron Po retweeted
The British East India Company (EIC) was one of the most powerful companies in history.
It was an empire-builder. With a supply chain so advanced, it could rival Amazon or Walmart today.
Here's the full breakdown of the company that dominated over half of the world's trade:
Ron Po retweeted
Absolutely delighted about the publication of UNCONQUERED STATES (Oxford University Press), which looks at the global history of non-European powers in the imperial age.
Ron Po retweeted
The China Center at St Hugh’s College of the University of Oxford will appoint a Departmental Lecturer (DL) for four years in Modern Chinese History. The closing date for applications is Jan. 16, 2025: jobs.ac.uk/job/DLE659/depart…
Always a pleasure to visit Cambridge, where the November chill adds to its charm. Thank you to CUSH for the invitation. It was a joy discussing islands in early modern China with a small group of engaged students. Cold hands, warm company, and a day to appreciate. @lsehistory
Ron Po retweeted
Shaping the Blue Dragon by @Roncypo is available now! This book uncovers maritime China’s odyssey through pirates, visionaries, cartographers, and more. View here: liverpooluniversitypress.co.…
ALT On the left of the image, text that reads: ''From pirates to cartographers to envoys, Ronald C. Po takes us on a journey through the lives of several famous Chinese players who were unknowingly involved in Shaping the Blue Dragon.' Professor Paul A. Van Dyke, retired Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou.' Next to the text on the right, is the book cover for Shaping the Blue Dragon by Ronald C. Po. In the bottom right corner is the LUP 125 logo. The background is an illustration taken from the book cover.
Ron Po retweeted
Control the seas and you control everything.
Discover the thrilling story of Kublai Khan and how he built the most powerful navy in the world.
Emperor of the Seas is out now.
Hitting shelves this October! It has been a joy and honour working with @LivUniPress, which has commissioned global maritime studies for over three decades. It’s also a privilege to celebrate LUP’s 125th anniversary. Please find links to the book below. Thank you. @lsehistory
