The role of underwater archaeology in framing and facilitating the Chinese national strategic agenda

Abstract

Illicit treasure hunting scandals in Southeast Asian waters in the 1980s alerted regional governments to the value and vulnerability of their submerged heritage. Unlike countries that promoted commercial salvage of historic wrecks, China responded by passing strict protective regulations and establishing the Underwater Archaeological Research Center. Understanding subsequent Chinese underwater heritage management efforts requires analyzing the pendulum of Chinese history, identity and naval policy in light of changing developmental aspirations. Official promotion of underwater archaeology in China is a key element in the symbolic mobilization of maritime heritage in the service of national economic resurgence and hemispheric projection of power.