The Last Days of Pekin


Read by Peter Tucker

(4.7 stars; 5 reviews)

The author was an officer in the French navy. This book is a compilation of his experiences when stationed in China in 1900 during and immediately after the Boxer Rebellion. It contains descriptions of the horrors of war, but more significantly a detailed description of the mysterious civilisation into which the occupying ("barbarian") forces intruded. The story is told with sympathy and admiration despite a degree of colonial chauvinism. (Summary by Peter Tucker) (6 hr 13 min)

Chapters

Author's Dedication and Translator's Note 4:05 Read by Peter Tucker
Arrival in the Yellow Sea 9:39 Read by Peter Tucker
At Ning-Hia 10:09 Read by Peter Tucker
On the Way to Pekin - beginning 51:41 Read by Peter Tucker
On the Way to Pekin - conclusion 27:15 Read by Peter Tucker
In the Imperial City - beginning 44:51 Read by Peter Tucker
In the Imperial City - continuation 58:01 Read by Peter Tucker
In the Imperial City - conclusion 42:41 Read by Peter Tucker
Return to Ning-Hia 6:42 Read by Peter Tucker
Pekin in Springtime 29:23 Read by Peter Tucker
The Tombs of the Emperors 1:00:51 Read by Peter Tucker
The Last Days of Pekin 28:37 Read by Peter Tucker

Reviews

Fascinating History


(4 stars)

Mr. Peter Tucker is so good that I often felt like the actual officer was recounting his journey. The fabulous wealth against the dire poverty was so well depicted. I kept thinking that the 1900 Rebellion was against the wealthy nobles, but that wasn't it. The Boxer Rebellion appeared to be a last chance to rid the country of barbarians. The hatred against all non-Chinese was intense. The author values the history and treasures of the nobles, unlike how he depicts other invading armies. I do wonder if the immense treasure that WAS China has all been destroyed. I thoroughly enjoyed listening to this book.


(5 stars)

Well read by a great reader Fascinating history around the Boxer Rebellion - did not realise how many nations were involved! A little arrogant from the French but they were an occupying army.