Trans Pacific by Oliver Scott

Trans Pacific offers a fresh perspective on world history by exploring the Pacific Ocean not as a barrier, but as a dynamic arena for exchange long before European contact.
The book challenges Eurocentric views of globalization, revealing the ingenuity and agency of Asian, American, and Oceanic societies in shaping global interactions.
It traces the intricate routes of trade, migration, and exploration that connected disparate civilizations, impacting the trajectory of world history.

The book first introduces geographical factors and pre-Columbian voyages, highlighting early contact.
Then, it examines the transformations brought about by European exploration, focusing on the pivotal role of Manila and the Silver Trade.
Finally, it analyzes the long-term consequences of these exchanges, including cultural blending and the spread of diseases.

By understanding the pre-existing connectivity across the Pacific, the book compels a re-evaluation of traditional narratives of globalization, acknowledging the contributions of Pacific societies.
With an accessible writing style, Trans Pacific interweaves historical analysis with insights from anthropology, archaeology, and oceanography.
By drawing from diverse sources, including archaeological findings, indigenous oral histories, and colonial records, the book provides a comprehensive understanding of trans-Pacific interactions, making it a valuable resource for students, scholars, and anyone interested in world history, travel, and exploration.