The publication of Robin Masefield’s latest book, The World Administrated by Irishmen: The Life and Times of Robert Hart and Contemporary Irish in East Asia, followed extensive research into the role of Irish men and women in 19th century China. While the book deals in particular with the Chinese Maritime Customs Service and those who served in it, it includes an assessment of the unique contribution that Irish people made both to Hong Kong’s initial relationship with the United Kingdom and to its development thereafter.

This illustrated talk will highlight some of the many Irish Governors, administrators, lawyers and a range of other individuals who formed part of the rich historical tapestry. Robin will describe a wealth of fascinating characters and how their Irish roots shaped their subsequent lives.

The Speaker

Robin Masefield lived in Hong Kong for three years in the 1980s and then published a guidebook Making the Most of Hong Kong. After working for many years in Northern Ireland, he has since published a number of books about different aspects of local history there. His most recent book, published by Queen's University Belfast in summer 2023 was The World Administered by Irishmen: The Life and Times of Robert Hart and Contemporary Irish in East Asia.

PROGRAMME

Venue: Online talk by Zoom

Admission: $50 for members, $60 for guests /non-members

Registration: Please email <membership@royalasiaticsociety.org.hk> and provide your membership number, if applicable, at the time of registration.

Please kindly complete your registration by advance payment via Stripe's payment links below (using your Credit Card):

Members ($50): https://buy.stripe.com/14k8zC4Pv9ZAgpi8xL

Non-member / Guest ($60): https://buy.stripe.com/7sIaHKa9P8Vwdd629o

Details about the other payment option will be sent on registration. Upon receipt of payment, your registration will be confirmed by email.

Registration will be closed at 12 noon on 21 August 2024. Zoom links will be sent before or by 21 August 2024.