Diaspora history: Chinese communities around the world
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- Start Date: 22 Nov 2025End Date: 22 Nov 2025Sat (Daytime): 10:30 - 16:30In PersonFull fee £59.00 Senior fee £47.00 Concession £38.00
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What is the course about?
The course delves into the story of Chinese migration from the 10th century to the present day. We will chronicle how Chinese communities have settled, integrated, and thrived in diverse parts of the world across different historical periods. This journey will explore the waves of Chinese emigration, starting from the Tang Dynasty's outreach to Southeast Asia, through the mid-19th century California gold rush, to the exodus caused by corruption, starvation, and war in the early to mid-20th century. We will also highlight the more recent elective emigration trends. The course aims to foster a deep appreciation for the diverse Chinese diaspora and their enduring role in shaping the global history.
What will we cover?
- Introduction to the concept of Diaspora and Chinese Diaspora
- Historical timeline of Chinese migration
- Chinese diasporas in Southeast Asia, North America, Europe, and Africa
- Special focus: Chinese diasporas in the UK and London
- Early Chinese immigrants to the UK
- The formation and evolution of London’s Chinatown: Limehouse Chinatown and Soho Chinatown
- The Economic Impact of Chinese Diaspora
- Chinese cultural influence abroad
- Current issues and future prospects for the Chinese diaspora.
What will I achieve?
By the end of this course you should be able to...
- Understand the concept of 'diaspora' and its historical relevance in relation to Chinese migration.
- Trace the historical timeline of Chinese migration and its impact on different parts of the world.
- Analyse various case studies to comprehend the cultural, economic, and social contributions of Chinese communities in diverse regions.
- Appreciate the cultural influence of Chinese diasporas on global cuisine, art, language, and traditions.
- Recognise the economic implications of Chinese diaspora activities on both their host countries and China.
- Engage in discussions on return migration to China, and examine its causes and effects.
- Draw connections between historical trends and contemporary issues related to Chinese diasporas.
What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?
This course is introductory and everyone is welcome. No prior knowledge is necessary but a good grasp of English, an open mind, and a willingness to listen to different views are all that is required.
How will I be taught, and will there be any work outside the class?
There will be a combination of lectures, using a wide range of PowerPoint slides, and interactive-based discussion and debates. We shall use small group work to analyse original sources and a range of handouts will be available for discussion purposes.
Are there any other costs? Is there anything I need to bring?
There are no additional costs, but you may wish to bring a pen and paper, or digital equivalents, for making notes.
When I've finished, what course can I do next?
HWH160 China in the World Wars and the World Wars in China
HWH167 A women’s history of modern China
HWH168 Oral history for beginners
HWH169 Women in global history
HWH170 Exploring the memory politics of East Asia
HWH99 Chinese history taster: the Ming (1368-1644) and Qing (1636-1912) Dynasties
HWH100 The search for modern China: the Ming (1368-1644) and Qing (1636-1912) Dynasties
HWH175 Oral history workshop 1-3: Realising your plan.
Dr Qiuyang Chen received her PhD in history from the University of Warwick and specialises in Chinese history, oral history, and gender history. She has taught at the University of Warwick and the University of Birmingham as a visiting lecturer. At City Lit, her classes explore topics including imperial and modern Chinese history, British-Sino relations, the history of Chinese diasporas, gender history, and oral history. In her leisure time, Qiuyang enjoys visiting museums and galleries, as well as outdoor activities such as rock-climbing, hiking and mountaineering.
Please note: We reserve the right to change our tutors from those advertised. This happens rarely, but if it does, we are unable to refund fees due to this. Our tutors may have different teaching styles; however we guarantee a consistent quality of teaching in all our courses.
