Some issues about the Chinese community in Thua Thien - Hue from the 17th to 19th centuries

Abstract

This study’s purpose is to illustrate the community formation and economic activities of the Chinese in Hue from the 17th to the 19th centuries. The article suggests that, although Thua Thien - Hue did not possess important international trading ports such as Van Don, Pho Hien, Hoi An, Gia Dinh, and Ha Tien, its commercial ports became regional and inter-regional entrepot. Historically speaking, these regional trading ports witnessed the regular presence of foreign merchants, including Chinese. These traders frequently landed in Hue’s trading ports and established settlements there. The interaction between Chinese merchants and the locals also took place strongly. Accordingly, this paper analyzes the process of formation of the Chinese community in Thua Thien - Hue. Two major groups are placed under investigation Minh Huong and the overseas Chinese (Thanh Nhan). In addition, the article examines their economic activities and cultural life from the 17th to 19th centuries.