Narrative of the Earl of Elgin's Mission to China and Japan, in the Years 1857, '58, '59

Discover the captivating journey of Laurence Oliphant in Narrative of the Earl of Elgin's Mission to China and Japan, in the Years 1857, '58, '59. Published by Cambridge University Press in 2012, this compelling account spans 526 pages and offers a unique insight into 19th-century diplomacy. Oliphant, a multifaceted figure—lawyer, journalist, diplomat, and occasional spy—served as the private secretary to Lord Elgin during a pivotal mission aimed at expanding British trading interests in Asia.

His detailed narrative from 1859 not only chronicles the events but also provides a rich analysis of the complex negotiations that took place between Great Britain, China, and Japan. This book is essential for anyone interested in foreign relations, historical travel, and the intricate dynamics of international diplomacy during a transformative era.

Join Oliphant on this extraordinary expedition and gain a deeper understanding of the historical context that shaped modern relations between these nations.