Free Trade`s First Missionary – Sir John Bowring in Europe and Asia

This book chronicles the life of Sir John Bowring, highlighting his pivotal role in promoting free trade and his complex governorship in Asia.

The life of Sir John Bowring is a fascinating exploration of ambition and reform in the 19th century. As a colonial governor and a key figure in the push for free trade, Bowring's journey began in humble beginnings, born into a modest trading family. His natural aptitude for languages opened doors to a career in literature and radical politics, where he passionately advocated for liberty across Europe, particularly in France, Spain, and Greece. Mentored by the philosopher Jeremy Bentham, he became a prominent voice in the literary world, emphasizing action over theory in his quest for social reform.

In Free Trade's First Missionary – Sir John Bowring in Europe and Asia, readers will discover Bowring's significant contributions to modernizing Britain's public accounts and his role in the introduction of the florin as a precursor to decimalization. His political career was marked by a staunch support for full suffrage and other progressive causes, positioning him as a liberal opponent of figures like Karl Marx. However, his financial downfall during the economic slump of 1848 led him to take up a consulship in Canton, eventually becoming the governor of Hong Kong.

Bowring's tenure in Asia was fraught with challenges, including his negotiation of a pivotal treaty with King Mongkut of Siam and the initiation of conflict with China. Despite the controversies surrounding his governorship, his legacy of liberal ideas and commitment to free trade left an enduring mark on both Europe and Asia. This book provides a comprehensive look at Bowring's multifaceted life, emphasizing his influence in the realms of trade and governance.