The Boxer Rebellion? Our (the U.S.) actual involvement as far as troops in combat was a minor percentage. One could argue that our Navy stationed in the Phillipines did play a significant part later on but mainly as a deterrent. The most prevalent American presence before the “war” was that of Missionaries. The French, Germans, British, Japanese and “Russians” were the primary antagonist colonial powers. True, if you are not Chinese -you are a barbarian and with the history/mindset of China that point is semi-moot as to its revelency as is the history in Wills post (though he notes a important fact).
I am entertained by the opinions of some on this thread, reading comments from other threads I assumed there would be a meticulous approach to the study of foreign markets, economies and the properties with which the operate, my mistake.
My opinion is that many here give China far too much “benefit of the doubt” as to their overall economic (and therefore political)strength & stability. Even more so than the awe that was prevalent towards Japan in the 80’s. It’s pretty much impossible to and predict our own markets and economy which operate fairly transparently, much less the opacity which most of China’s is behind.
I doubt that China would take this route – while it would clobber our economy immediately it won’t destroy it, I opine that in the longer run it will hurt them far more. Still, no reason for them not to try, given the political atmosphere in the U.S. but, I digress. Too many tangents to go off on, too many variables to ponder, too many worthless opinions to express and ultimately, too much work to do.
I think it’s an opportunity for the U.S. if those in power have the cojones to call it and the strength of will to follow it through and think of the long term result. The “easy” way hasn’t worked for the overall good of our economy sooner or later real pain has to set in. Let it be on our terms.
