Diplomacy, Trade and Networks: Champa in the Asian Commercial Context (7th-10th Centuries)

• Main Author: Do Truong Giang
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: Université de Provence 2016-06-01
• Series: Moussons
• Subjects: Champa; maritime trade network; diplomacy; China; Middle East
• Online Access: http://journals.openedition.org/moussons/3521

Previous studies of Champa history mainly based on an assumption that Champa was an “Indianized” kingdom who profoundly influenced by Indian civilization. Recent studies, however, have convinced that apart from Indian influence, Champa did benefit greatly from other civilization centers, especially China and Middle East. This article, relies on Chinese historical document and the old inscriptions of ancient Champa as well as recent archaeological findings in central Vietnam, aims to shed new light on the diplomatic relations and commercial links between Champa with China and Middle East during the period from the 7th to the 10th: Firstly, the tributary trade and diplomacy from Champa to Chinese courts will be taken into account; and secondly, the engagement of Champa in the expansion of Muslim trade network in the Indian Ocean will be examined.