History

Blinged-Out Mobile Not the First Telephone Controversy at the Forbidden City

Blinged-Out Mobile Not the First Telephone Controversy at the Forbidden City

The recent flap over the Palace Museum's promotion of a bling-out luxury mobile phone was not the first time that a phone has caused a stir at the Forbidden City. The story of a phone, a young emperor, and his love of prank calls.

Lessons for Syria from the Taiping War

Lessons for Syria from the Taiping War

Far too often, humans are reminded of historical parallels to current crises that could have been avoided. War is repetitive, but is it necessary? The past may just be the best indicator of the future.

Preserved Architecture, Sustainable Crowds, and Manageable Traffic: The Story of What Beijing Could Have Been

Preserved Architecture, Sustainable Crowds, and Manageable Traffic: The Story of What Beijing Could Have Been

In 1949, two architects' plan for Beijing's future was rejected for being too much in love with the city's past.

Audio: Are the Kids Alright?

Audio: Are the Kids Alright?

Joining Jeremiah in the final episode of Barbarians at the Gate is Alec Ash, author of the book Wish Lanterns: Young Lives in New China to look at three of youth movements from the 20th century: The May Fourth/New Culture Era, the Cultural Revolution, and the 1980s.

The Life and Times of Edmund Trelawney Backhouse

The Life and Times of Edmund Trelawney Backhouse

I've long been fascinated with Edmund "The Hermit of Peking" Backhouse. It's time the famous Sinologist received a little love as one of the original hutong hipsters.

Beijing Emperor and Qing Dynasty Scammer Faces Prison Time in Shenzhen

Beijing Emperor and Qing Dynasty Scammer Faces Prison Time in Shenzhen

It is a twist on an old scam: A gullible patsy loses a small fortune helping a former monarch recover his royal funds. But what happens when the deposed ruler claims to be the Beijing born and raised Qianlong Emperor who last ruled China in the 18th century?