| ID | 121729 |
| Title Proper | Distinguishing between China and Vietnam |
| Other Title Information | three relational equilibriums in Sino-Vietnamese relations |
| Language | ENG |
| Author | Anderson, James A |
| Publication | 2013. |
| Summary / Abstract (Note) | Premodern Sino-Vietnamese relations may be described by three systems of engagement that I have labeled Strong China/Weak Vietnam, Weak China/Strong Vietnam, and Strong China/Strong Vietnam. These three states of interaction appear at various points, beginning with Vietnamese encounters with the Qin empire (221- 206 b.c.e.) through the early modern era. Brantly Womack has already described the historical Sino-Vietnamese relationship as politically "asymmetrical" with China playing the strongman role, and the three relational equilibriums described here do not contradict Womack's thesis. Instead, I explore how the generally asymmetrical states of affairs were molded by historical context and the specific ambitions of elite in the frontier region. While the general conditions of the Sino-Vietnamese relationship were asymmetrical, the choices available to Chinese and Vietnamese leaders in different periods varied widely. |
| `In' analytical Note | Journal of East Asian Studies Vol. 13, No.2; May-Aug 2013: p.259-280 |
| Journal Source | Journal of East Asian Studies Vol. 13, No.2; May-Aug 2013: p.259-280 |
| Key Words | China ; Vietnam ; Premodern ; Relations ; Tribute System ; Equilibrium |