An overview of Germany's naval and imperial activities in East Asia and the Pacific in the years leading up to the First World War. This book examines German attempts to acquire colonial territories in East Asia and the Pacific, and discusses the huge impact this had on local and other international powers. It covers the German acquisition of Kiautschou in 1897, which had profound consequences for China, beginning a "scramble for concessions" by other western powers; the formation of the powerful German East Asiatic Cruiser Squadron which was seen by the British as a major threat, and which resulted in the advent of the Fleet-Unit concept and the birth of the Royal Australian Navy; the Japanese siege and capture of the key German base of Tsingtau in 1914, and the fate of the various former German colonies after Germany's defeat in 1918. The book contains many illustrations from the author's extensive private collection. Charles Stephenson is an extensively published military historian, whose books include: 'Moel Famau and the Jubilee Tower of King George III' (2008); 'Servant to the King for His Fortifications: Paul Ive and the Practise of Fortification' (2008); 'The Admiral's Secret Weapon', published by Boydell in 2006; 'Fortifications of the Channel Islands, 1941-45: Hitler's Impregnable Fortress' (2006); 'The Fortifications of Malta, 1530-1945' (2004); and 'Zeppelins: German Airships, 1900-1940' (2004).

The presentation of material from an impressive collection of secondary and some primary sources, with particular reference to the brief German colonial presence in the Asia-Pacific region, will certainly be of considerable interest to general readers.'

Source: Bulletin of the School of Oriental & African Studies

A useful account of the German empire's brief experience as a colonial power in Asia and the Pacific. [...] A worthwhile book that should find a place in all libraries.'

Source: Choice