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The Peking Express
The Bandits Who Stole a Train, Stunned the West, and Broke the Republic of China
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Format: Hardback
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See moreThe thrilling true story of train-robbing revolutionaries and passengers who got more than they paid for in this Murder on the Orient Express-style adventure, set in China's republican era.
Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and
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Description
In May 1923, when Shanghai publisher and reporter John Benjamin Powell bought a first-class ticket for the Peking Express, he pictured an idyllic overnight journey on a brand-new train of unprecedented luxury—exactly what the advertisements promised. Seeing his fellow passengers, including mysterious Italian lawyer Giuseppe Musso, a confidante of Mussolini and lawyer for the opium trade, and American heiress Lucy Aldrich, sister-in-law of John D. Rockefeller Jr., he knew it would be an unforgettable trip.
Charismatic bandit leader and populist rabble-rouser Sun Mei-yao had also taken notice of the new train from Shanghai to Peking. On the night of Powell's trip of a lifetime, Sun launched his plan to make a brazen political statement: he and a thousand fellow bandits descended on the train, capturing dozens of hostages.
Aided by local proxy authorities, the humiliated Peking government soon furiously gave chase. At the bandits' mountain stronghold, a five-week siege began.
Brilliantly written, with new and original research, The Peking Express tells the incredible true story of a clash that shocked the world—becoming so celebrated it inspired several Hollywood movies—and set the course for China's two-decade civil war.
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 Peking Express has received acclaim for its vivid storytelling and meticulous research into a 1923 train hijacking in China. Reviewers highlight Zimmerman's ability to weave a gripping historical narrative filled with memorable characters and dramatic suspense. The book is praised for its engaging depiction of the political and social turmoil in China during that era, offering readers an immersive look into a nearly forgotten chapter of history.
Book Details
INFORMATION
ISBN: 9781541701700
Publisher: PublicAffairs,U.S.
Format: Hardback
Date Published: 04 May 2023
Country: United States
Imprint: PublicAffairs,U.S.
Illustration: 26 B/W illustrations
Audience: General / adult
DIMENSIONS
Spine width: 36.0mm
Width: 158.0mm
Height: 238.0mm
Weight: 560g
Pages: 352
About the Author
James M. Zimmerman is a Beijing-based lawyer who has lived and worked in China for over 25 years. He is among China's leading foreign lawyers and represents companies and individuals confronted with the political and legal complexities of doing business in Mainland China. He is the author of the China Law Deskbook, published by the American Bar Association, and is frequently featured as a political commentator on US-China relations in various print and broadcast media around the globe. He is the former four-term Chairman of the American Chamber of Commerce in China. In addition to Beijing, he maintains a home in San Diego, California.
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