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Autarky and the Rise and Fall of Piracy in Ming China

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  • Kung, James Kai-sing
  • Ma, Chicheng

Abstract

We examine the impact of rigorous trade suppression during 1550–1567 on the sharp rise of piracy in this period of Ming China. By analyzing a uniquely constructed historical data set, we find that the enforcement of a “sea (trade) ban†policy led to a rise in pirate attacks that was 1.3 times greater among the coastal prefectures more suitable for silk manufactures—our proxy for greater trade potential. Our study illuminates the conflicts in which China subsequently engaged with the Western powers, conflicts that eventually resulted in the forced abandonment of its long upheld autarkic principle.

Suggested Citation

  • Kung, James Kai-sing & Ma, Chicheng, 2014. "Autarky and the Rise and Fall of Piracy in Ming China," The Journal of Economic History, Cambridge University Press, vol. 74(2), pages 509-534, June.
    • Handle: RePEc:cup:jechis:v:74:y:2014:i:02:p:509-534_00
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    Cited by:

    1. Shuo Chen & James Kung, 2016. "Of maize and men: the effect of a New World crop on population and economic growth in China," Journal of Economic Growth, Springer, vol. 21(1), pages 71-99, March.
    2. Qiang Chen & Yijiang Wang & Chun-lei Yang, 2014. "Taxation under Autocracy: Theory and Evidence from Late Imperial China," SDU Working Papers 2014-03, School of Economics, Shandong University.
    3. Feng, Chen & Bai, Caiquan & Kang, Yankun, 2023. "Historical social capital and contemporary private investment choices," Journal of Corporate Finance, Elsevier, vol. 79(C).
    4. Mitchener, Kris James & Ma, Debin, 2016. "Introduction to the special issue: a new economic history of China," LSE Research Online Documents on Economics 69191, London School of Economics and Political Science, LSE Library.

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