Based on the author's thesis.

I. The setting -- Introduction -- 1. The comparative framework -- II. Cross-cultural encounters in the Philippines -- 2. The foundations of a global stage -- 3. The trilogy of triangular trade -- III. Zooming out: local, central, and global connections -- 4. Triangular foreign relations -- 5. Local and central dualism -- 6. Local-central tensions -- IV. Zooming in: early modern Manila and regional globalisation -- 7. Manila as port city -- 8. Actors and agency -- Conclusion.

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"This book examines the connected histories of Spain, China and Japan as they emerged and developed following the foundation of Manila as capital of the Spanish Philippines in 1571. Cross-cultural encounters not only shaped Manila's development as a "Eurasian" port city, but also had profound political, economic, and social ramifications for the three pre-modern states involved. This becomes obvious when looking into the diverse nature of long-distance trade, including trans-Pacific silver-for-silks bargaining, direct Sino-Japanese exchange, and provisions trade. In order not to overlook the role of human beings involved in proto-global struggles for power and foreign trade control, this volume combines a systematic comparison with a focus on different actors and their agency. The author offers an example of empirical global history based on multilingual primary source research and a critical evaluation of different historiographical traditions. Integrating Manila into world history helps in revising many long held misconceptions by replacing them with a more balanced, multi-faceted view"--Back cover

Description based on print version record.