Through an exploration of British rule in southeast Asia between 1770-1890, this book shows the importance of Britain's political and commercial hegemony in creating present-day "Asian-tiger" economies in this region.

Anthony Webster stresses the importance of London capitalist interest, the role of Indian merchants and the growing Chinese community in developing regions in southeast Asia. Through this, this volume explores major events which led to this influence, including the acquisition of Penang, the defeat of European powers in the war of 1815, the growth of both British and Indian industries, the establishment of Singapore and the creation of an 'informal empire' in the Malay peninsular.