An Early Modern Economy in China

The first English translation of Li Bozhongs pioneering study An Early Modern Economy in China uses sophisticated analysis to reconstruct the GDP of the Yangzi Delta. In this innovative economic history Li provides a basis for understanding the Deltas economy an area of unprecedented growth in modern times. Using quantitative research Li carefully reconstructs the economies of the region combining three methods for estimating GDP: output income and expenditure. The result reveals the structure and level of income and production in this highly commercialized and urbanized part of China establishing a benchmark for future reconstructions of regional economies through GDP. This is a landmark text in the field of economic history which has had a great impact on understanding Chinese economic history in global perspective.