In "The History of Korea Vol. I" by Homer B. Hulbert, readers embark on a captivating journey through the annals of Korean history, primarily focusing on the illustrious Joseon Dynasty and the intricate tapestry of events that shaped the Korean peninsula. Hulbert meticulously examines Korea's cultural heritage, deeply influenced by Confucianism, and the mechanisms of dynastic succession that governed Joseon governance. Throughout the narrative, Hulbert elucidates the nuanced dynamics of Sino-Korean relations, delves into diplomatic history, and analyzes the multifaceted impact of foreign influences on Korea's trajectory. From military conflicts to economic development, he navigates the ebbs and flows of Korean history, unraveling the complexities of social hierarchy and the interplay of historical narratives. With scholarly rigor and narrative finesse, "The History of Korea Vol. I" offers a comprehensive exploration of Korea's past, providing invaluable insights into the rich tapestry of East Asian history. It stands as an indispensable resource for understanding the intricacies of Korea's historical evolution within the broader context of East Asian geopolitics and cultural dynamics.
Homer Bezaleel Hulbert was an American missionary, journalist, linguist, and Korean independence advocate. Calvin and Mary Hulbert gave birth to Hulbert in New Haven, Vermont, in 1863. His mother, Mary Elizabeth Woodward Hulbert, was the granddaughter of Mary Wheelock, daughter of Eleazar Wheelock, Dartmouth College's founder. After graduating from St. Johnsbury Academy and Dartmouth College, Hulbert enrolled at Union Theological Seminary in 1884. He first traveled to Korea in 1886 with two other professors, Delzell A. Bunker and George W. Gilmore, to teach English at the Royal English School. There, he instructed the children of Korean monarchy and nobles. In 1901, he launched The Korea Review. Emperor Gwangmu then assigned him the task of establishing a middle school in the Western tradition. He authored a history book on Korea that became a standard source in the United States for nearly 50 years. Prior to 1905, he had a positive attitude toward Japanese engagement in Korea, seeing the Japanese as reformers as opposed to Russia, which he saw as reactionary.
