Video Introduction

Dr Gordon Barrett, Departmental Lecturer in Modern Chinese History and Politics at the University of Oxford introduces China: Trade, Politics and Culture and discusses how he has used the resource in teaching and research, giving advice on the features he recommends for new users to the site as well as some key documents.

We asked Dr Gordon Barrett:

- What are the advantages of having access to digital collections for a researcher? (0:15)

- Where could a researcher start with China: Trade, Politics & Culture? (1:15)

- Why is using primary sources early important in a researcher's work? (2:38)

- Tell us about a document that researchers have used in China: Trade, Politics & Culture? (3:18)

- Which collection do you consider the highlight within China: Trade, Politics & Culture? (5:47)

Sun Yat Sen and the Awakening of China is one of the documents that Dr Barrett highlights as a fascinating volume, not only for its content but also for the page entitled 'correspondence' that is enclosed in this particular edition, part of the collection from the School of Oriental and African Studies.

He also emphasises the useful supporting features available, including Professor Robert Bickers' essay The Chinese Maritime Customs Service and the China Trade, the visual galleries and the keywords search directory. 

For further guidance for using China: Trade, Politics & Culture, see our Page by Page Guide.