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The China Mirage

The Hidden History of American Disaster in Asia
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( 1,447 ratings, 235 reviews)
Book Hero Magic crafted this summary to help describe this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Summary
The China Mirage by James Bradley explores the complex relationship between the United States and China during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The book delves into misconceptions and misguided perceptions that influenced American foreign policy and led to significant military and diplomatic entanglements. Through historical narratives and in-depth analysis, Bradley unravels the consequences of this "mirage" on world history.
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Format: Paperback / softback
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Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?

You might enjoy this book if you're interested in the complex and often hidden historical relationship between the United States and China. It delves into the misconceptions and strategies that have shaped foreign policies and offers fascinating insights into the socio-political landscape linking the two nations. This read is ideal for those keen on exploring the lesser-known aspects of history involving diplomatic and military decisions.

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Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Description

James Bradley introduces us to the prominent Americans—including FDR's grandfather, Warren Delano—who in the 1800s made their fortunes in the China opium trade. Meanwhile, American missionaries sought a myth: noble Chinese peasants eager to Westernise.

The media propagated this mirage, and FDR believed that supporting Chiang Kai-shek would make China America's best friend in Asia. But Chiang was on his way out and when Mao Zedong instead came to power, Americans were shocked, wondering how we had "lost China."

From the 1850s to the origins of the Vietnam War, Bradley reveals how American misconceptions about China have distorted our policies and led to the avoidable deaths of millions. The China Mirage dynamically explores the troubled history that still defines U.S.-Chinese relations today.

Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?

The China Mirage by James Bradley provides a historical exploration of the complex relationship between the United States and China, often highlighting misconceptions and misunderstandings. Reviews note the book's engaging narrative, blending historical events with political intrigue, though some critique it for occasionally oversimplifying complex topics. The robust research and surprising revelations have been praised, making it a compelling read for those interested in history and international relations.

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Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9780316196680

Publisher: Little, Brown & Company

Format: Paperback / softback

Date Published: 03 May 2016

Country: United States

Imprint: Back Bay Books

Audience: General / adult

DIMENSIONS

Spine width: 29.0mm

Width: 138.0mm

Height: 208.0mm

Weight: 430g

Pages: 432

About the Author

James Bradley is the author of the New York Times bestsellers The Imperial Cruise, Flyboys, and Flags of Our Fathers, and a son of one of the men who raised the American flag on Iwo Jima.

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