Thank you for visiting the website.  Check out the two YouTube video links below of significant historical interest.  Enjoy!

​

Manufacturing in China

The global flow of goods in the Trans-Pacific vis-à-vis Trans-Atlantic international trade of today had its beginning in the 16th century which started in 1565 and ended in September 1815.    

Even today, many are more cognizant of the Chinese silk road and the adventures of Marco Polo on the other side of the globe westbound from China than the historical Pacific above which had a more profound world effect due to the entry of Spanish silver coin from Peru as payment for Chinese goods.  Silver was then the world standard of trade exchange and not gold.

​

Since the 16th century Chinese manufactured products in its earlier form of production during the period were transported on Spanish mercantile galleon ships for sale into the Americas and Europe via Mexico. 

Sailing twice a year each way to/from Manila in the Philippines, connections were made in Acapulco, then by land across into Veracruz on the Mexican east coast, then onward via Havana as stopover to Spain. 

See the first YouTube link below from the Spanish Ministry of Foreign Affairs, European Union and Cooperation.

First YouTube video link:

Ministry of Foreign Affairs, European Union and Cooperation

​

During the Spanish colonial period, Spanish Manila permitted at various times a Chinese district called the "Parian" that included highly skilled mercantile residents who contributed greatly to the flourishing international trade. 

For over 250 years of this galleon trade, the Philippines was ruled as an extension of Mexico on the American continent being Spanish that included California and Texas (also lesser known as New Philippines).

Its historical context can suggest then that Manila had the "first ever American Chinatown" which still exists today called Binondo.  A presentation is given below through a second YouTube link by Dr. Evelyn Hu-Dehart entitled “Spanish Manila: A Trans-Pacific Maritime Enterprise”.  This is a long video of one hour and 44 minutes to watch during your free time.

Second YouTube video link:

National Library Singapore

For anyone who is interested in studying transnational history, one must learn to adapt to cultures, love travelling and engaging with people. These are the challenges and perks experienced by Dr Evelyn, Professor of History American Studies and Ethnic Studies at Brown University, USA.