This book explores the vital role of merchants within early modern China. Unlike European merchants, their Sino-colleagues have long been regarded as certain social pariahs after pre-Qin period, despite the fortune they made. The key mission of this monograph is to investigate whether the standing of merchants in the Ming Empire has been improved compared with their predecessors. Generally, their status is reflected in state-merchant relationship and their role in the market, which can be found in miscellaneous economic activities such as market monopoly, commercial taxation, international trade, and consumption.
This book aims to be of relevance to students and researchers interested in early modern history, eastern commerce, Ming merchants, and contemporary global affairs.

Utilises official documentation and sources from the Ming Dynasty Combines studies of economic thought and history to highlight changes to the Chinese economy Explores the influence of different groups, including scholars, peasants, and artisans, on Ming era China

Autorentext

Tengda Hua is Assistant Professor at Shanghai University of Political Science and Law. He obtained his Doctoral degree from Goethe University Frankfurt, Germany.

Inhalt
Chapter 1: Introduction.- Chapter 2: Institution: designed system faced by Ming merchants.- Chapter 3: Monopoly: merchants and monarchy.- Chapter 4: Taxation: levy on merchants.- Chapter 5: International Trade: merchants' predicament and opportunities.- Chapter 6: Consumption: two pairs of thought involving merchants.- Chapter 7: Ranking: scholars, merchants, craftsmen and peasants.- Chapter 8: Conclusion.