2017

Peter W. Braden

  • Doctoral Student
  • University of California, San Diego
Picture of Peter W. Braden

Project

Did Animals Have a Chinese Revolution? : Animal Experiences During China's Post-War Transition to Socialism

Program

Henry Luce Foundation/ACLS Program in China Studies Predissertation-Summer Travel Grants

Department

History

Abstract

I am studying how domesticated animals experienced the profound changes in human institutions (markets, laws, husbandry practices, and customs) that accompanied the Chinese revolution of 1949 and the transition to socialism. How were animals' inner lives affected by tumult and transformation in the realm of humans? I will examine the eradication of the cattle disease rinderpest, and the effects of changes in livestock raising and slaughtering on animals' welfare and sexuality. Our understanding of China's history is incomplete as long as we ignore the experiences of its billions of intelligent animals during this pivotal period.