BOOK BRIEF

Imperial Twilight: The Opium War and the End of China's Last Golden Age

Stephen R. Platt
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Imperial Twilight: The Opium War and the End of China's Last Golden Age

Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 2018

Book Brief

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Stephen R. Platt

Imperial Twilight: The Opium War and the End of China's Last Golden Age

Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 2018
Book Details
Pages

555

Format

Book • Nonfiction

Setting

China • 19th Century

Publication Year

2018

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

Imperial Twilight: The Opium War and the End of China's Last Golden Age by Stephen R. Platt explores the complex events leading to the Opium War. The book details cross-cultural interactions, trade conflicts, and political tensions between the British Empire and Qing Dynasty, highlighting individuals and decisions that shaped this pivotal moment in history.

Informative

Mysterious

Contemplative

Melancholic

Challenging

Reviews & Readership

4.5

3,784 ratings

89%

Loved it

9%

Mixed feelings

2%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Imperial Twilight by Stephen R. Platt is praised for its engaging narrative and detailed research, providing a nuanced view of the events leading to the Opium War. Critics commend its balanced perspective on both Western and Chinese viewpoints. However, some note it can be dense and challenging for readers unfamiliar with the period. Overall, it offers a compelling historical account.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Imperial Twilight: The Opium War and the End of China's Last Golden Age?

A reader interested in imperial history, Sino-Western relations, and detailed narratives would enjoy Imperial Twilight. Fans of Barbara W. Tuchman's The Guns of August or Jonathan Spence's The Search for Modern China will appreciate Platt's analytical depth and storytelling.

4.5

3,784 ratings

89%

Loved it

9%

Mixed feelings

2%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

555

Format

Book • Nonfiction

Setting

China • 19th Century

Publication Year

2018

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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