New Forces in Old China: An Inevitable Awakening

"New Forces in Old China: An Inevitable Awakening" by Arthur Judson Brown is a book that examines the dramatic shifts happening in China during the early 1900s as it grapples with Western influence. Brown highlights how trade, politics, and religion from the West are shaking up a country known for its old traditions. The author wants to show just how big these changes are for China and the rest of the world. Brown starts by laying out what he hopes to do in the book, based on what he saw during his trips to Asia. He's really interested in how big and complicated China is, pointing out its long history. The early parts of the book give a broad look at China's ancient past, its relationships with powerful countries, and the new situations created by foreign interaction. Brown prepares us for a close look at China's huge population, its economy, and the social changes that are happening as it moves towards becoming modern. He encourages readers to think about both the problems China faces and the chances it has to change for the better.