Lion and Dragon in Northern China

"Lion and Dragon in Northern China" by Sir Reginald Fleming Johnston is a historical exploration of Weihaiwei, a British-controlled territory in early 20th-century northern China. Johnston presents an intimate look at the region's history, customs, and societal norms, emphasizing the unique characteristics of the Chinese people living there. Beginning with the circumstances of Weihaiwei's cession to Britain after the Sino-Japanese War, the narrative moves to highlight the cultural richness and tenacity of the local population as they navigate life under foreign influence. Rather than focusing on political matters, Johnston's goal is to capture the everyday existence of the inhabitants, their traditions, beliefs, and their ability to adapt and endure amidst the changes imposed by outside forces, providing an in-depth view of a specific corner of Chinese society that may be missed in broader historical studies.