During the American revolution in the 1760s, whisky was one of the most sought after consumer goods on the continent. Due to the politically unstable and uncertain environment, many people chose bottles of whisky as their currency. In fact, many farmers would make their own whisky out of their corn and then trade it for other goods. George Washington (1732-1799), …
Sakoku – When Japan locked its borders for 200 years
Before the early 1600s, many nations were present on the main land of Japan. Traders, missionaries and others from Spain, the Netherlands, Portugal and several other nations were starting to influence Japanese culture. So much in fact, that the ruling upper class became anxious. Tokugawa Iemitsu (1604-1651) was the ruling shogun and eventually banned virtually all foreigners.
Chinese Peru
Several hundred years ago, slaves were transported to South America. Among those slaves were many from China, hence they were called “Chino”. After being brought there as slaves, another wave of immigrants came on their own terms to find work. Calle Capón, one of the earliest Chinatowns in the Americas was in Lima, Peru.
Tasman of Tasmania
Born in 1603, Abel Janszoon Tasman was a Dutch explorer for the Dutch East India Company. While searching for profitable sea routes, Tasman discovered Tasmania, New Zealand, Tonga, and the Fiji Islands.