书评

This is an exciting read that is excellent for early modern/European/ Jewish/ Asian history. The book dives into more than another tale of historical migration or a portrayal of individualized archives. It opens a window into our early modern cosmopolitan world, revealing the often violent undercurrents of modernity. It’s fascinating how the author connects global commerce with labor conflicts, showing us the subtle and complex dance between urban and economic histories. The book illustrates the relationship between global dynasties and social disparities, especially in the context of colonialism, like a yin—yang dynamic—each influencing the other profoundly.

When the party is over and the curtains are closed, one asks: how far or how close are we from the dazzling late 1930s and early 1940s?

Victor Sassoon's “Fortune of Empires” vividly illustrates these themes, showcasing how individual and collective historical narratives intertwine. It’s very cleverly woven together, making it a genuinely enriching read—great material to include in a syllabus and inspirational to ponder our current crisis.