The Rise and Decline of Trading Port Cities on the Maritime Silk Road: A Comparative Historical Analysis of Hội An, Melaka and George Town

Authors

  • Kedchapan Kamput Assistant Professor, Southeast Asian Studies Program, Faculty of Liberal Arts, Thammasat University

Keywords:

Maritime Silk Road, Hội An, Melaka, George Town

Abstract

This research article examines the historical development of trading port cities from mercantilism toward colonialism using a case study of Hội An, Melaka, and George Town. Qualitative research methodology was applied to the historical research framework based on the concept of comparative historical analysis. Prosperity in trading ports consisted of powerful ancient kingdoms, monsoon trade routes, the geographical setting, Islamic trading principles, overseas traders network, imperial authorities, and crossroads of migration. The conditions that led to the deterioration of trade ports include the struggle for land and power, religion and social conflict, threats of imperialism, trade disputes, war and conflict, as well as geographic changes. Comparative historical analysis of the marine world in Asia describes the development of geographic and geopolitical development in relation to maritime trade routes. Meanwhile, the study of the continuation of historical timelines is important for the study of the development of a trading port that changed from mercantilism, focusing on trade partners, to the colonialism of the European imperialists, which involved trade competition. The framework of geo-colonial historical materialism and this critical perspective draws attention to other comparative studies of Asian port cities.

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Published

2021-06-07

How to Cite

Kamput, K. (2021). The Rise and Decline of Trading Port Cities on the Maritime Silk Road: A Comparative Historical Analysis of Hội An, Melaka and George Town. Journal of the Faculty of Arts, Silpakorn University, 43(1), 105–132. Retrieved from https://so04.tci-thaijo.org/index.php/jasu/article/view/252042