Title
Smoke And Ashes: Opium'S Hidden Histories,New
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Ghosh unravels the impact of the opium trade on global history and in his own familythe climax of a yearslong project.When Amitav Ghosh began the research for his monumental cycle of novels the Ibis trilogy ten years ago, he was startled to learn how the lives of the nineteenthcentury sailors and soldiers he wrote about were dictated not only by the currents of the Indian Ocean but also by the precious commodity carried in enormous quantities on those currents: opium. Most surprising of all, however, was the discovery that his own identity and family history were swept up in the story.Smoke and Ashes is at once a travelogue, a memoir, and an essay in history, drawing on decades of archival research. In it, Ghosh traces the transformative effect the opium trade had on Britain, India, and China, as well as the world at large. The trade was engineered by the British Empire, which exported Indian opium to sell to China to redress their great trade imbalance, and its revenues were essential to the empires financial survival. Tracing the profits further, Ghosh finds opium at the origins of some of the worlds biggest corporations, of Americas most powerful families and prestigious institutions (from the Astors and Coolidges to the Ivy League), and of contemporary globalism itself.Moving deftly between horticultural histories, the mythologies of capitalism, and the social and cultural repercussions of colonialism, in Smoke and Ashes Amitav Ghosh reveals the role that one small plant had in making our world, now teetering on the edge of catastrophe.
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This product may contain chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects, or other reproductive harm.
For more information, please visit www.P65Warnings.ca.gov.
- Q: What is the page count of 'Smoke and Ashes'? A: The book has four hundred sixteen pages. It provides an in-depth exploration of the opium trade and its historical context.
- Q: What is the binding type of this book? A: The book is available in hardcover binding. This ensures durability and a premium feel for readers.
- Q: What are the dimensions of 'Smoke and Ashes'? A: The book measures six point four two inches in length, one point three five inches in width, and nine point three inches in height.
- Q: How does one read 'Smoke and Ashes'? A: You can read this book at your leisure, as it is designed for adult readers. The narrative combines memoir, travelogue, and historical essay.
- Q: Is this book suitable for a young audience? A: No, this book is not intended for children. It contains complex themes related to history and the opium trade.
- Q: What themes does 'Smoke and Ashes' explore? A: The book explores themes of colonialism, the opium trade, and its impact on global history. It intertwines personal and historical narratives.
- Q: How should I store 'Smoke and Ashes'? A: Store the book in a cool, dry place to avoid damage. Keep it upright on a shelf to maintain its shape and condition.
- Q: Can I lend 'Smoke and Ashes' to a friend? A: Yes, you can lend the book to others. Just ensure it is returned in good condition to maintain its quality.
- Q: What if 'Smoke and Ashes' arrives damaged? A: If the book arrives damaged, contact the seller for a return or exchange. Most sellers have policies in place for such issues.
- Q: Is there a warranty for 'Smoke and Ashes'? A: No, this book does not come with a warranty. However, customer service can assist with any concerns regarding its condition.
- Q: What makes 'Smoke and Ashes' different from other historical books? A: This book uniquely combines personal memoir with extensive historical research, focusing on the opium trade's role in shaping modern society.
- Q: Is 'Smoke and Ashes' a good choice for someone interested in global history? A: Yes, it is an excellent choice for readers interested in global history, particularly regarding colonialism and trade.
- Q: How does 'Smoke and Ashes' compare to the Ibis Trilogy? A: While both explore the opium trade, 'Smoke and Ashes' serves as a non-fiction companion to the fictional narratives in the Ibis Trilogy.
- Q: What type of reader would enjoy 'Smoke and Ashes'? A: Readers who appreciate historical narratives, memoirs, and socio-political analysis will find this book engaging.
- Q: Does 'Smoke and Ashes' include illustrations or photographs? A: No, 'Smoke and Ashes' does not include illustrations or photographs. It focuses on text and storytelling.