Keeping Democracy at Bay - by Suzanne Pepper (Paperback)

About the Book

This thoroughly researched study provides an invaluable account of Hong Kong's political evolution from its founding as a British colony to the present. Exploring the interplay between colonial, capitalist, communist, and democratic forces in shaping Hong Kong's political inst...

Book Synopsis

This thoroughly researched study provides an invaluable account of Hong Kong's political evolution from its founding as a British colony to the present. Exploring the interplay between colonial, capitalist, communist, and democratic forces in shaping Hong Kong's political institutions and culture, Suzanne Pepper offers a fresh perspective on the territory's development and a gripping account of its transition from British to Chinese rule.

Review Quotes

Fascinating.

It certainly is refreshing to see a book which goes against common wisdom on this subject. It is, as a whole, notable for its very thorough criticism of the British authorities. . . . Pepper's book provides a necessary overview of a very important question in modern Chinese history.

This book is a commendable effort which not only offers insight into the critical issues surrounding Hong Kong's political history but also appeals to the imagination by allowing the reader to get as close as possible to voices of the past. As such, it would be a useful point of reference for scholars of Chinese history, politics and international affairs.

About the Author

Suzanne Pepper is an American writer and long-time Hong Kong resident. She is the author, among other works, of Civil War in China: The Political Struggle, 1945-1949, Second Edition (Rowman & Littlefield). For regular updates on Hong Kong politics see the author's blog at http: //chinaelectionsblog.net/hkfocus