Smithsonian Institution War Background Studies Number Twenty China

Begun in 1941 and including twenty-one illustrated volumes, the Smithsonian Institution War Background Studies series was intended to increase general knowledge about those regions affected by the Second World War, particularly those located in the Pacific. These volumes proved to be very popular with the public, leading to an increase in the print run in 1943. In addition, the army and navy began ordering copies to increase the knowledge of their service members.

Volume 20, on China, was written by A.G. Wenley and John A. Pope, both notable Sinologists who worked at the Smithsonian's Freer Gallery. The Freer Gallery of Art, part of the Smithsonian's National Museum of Asian Art, was the Smithsonian's first art museum, and houses one of the most significant collections of Asian art, with examples dating from the Neolithic to the twentieth century. At separate times, both Wenley and Pope served as directors of the gallery, and both had firsthand experience of the impacts of the war on Asia. Wenley worked with the Department of the Navy, translating Japanese sailing directions, while Pope served as a captain in the US Marine Corps Reserve, working as a Chinese language translator.

This copy may be rated as being in Very Good condition. There is a small, round stain on the front cover which as worn through to the other side, and the bottom of the spine is worn. There is some creasing to the corners of the covers as well. All figures and maps appear to be present.