The period when the British were establishing political and commercial hegemony in Southeast Asia also saw the foundation of the present-day "Asian tiger" economies. This book traces the development of that hegemony, showing the overwhelming importance of London capitalist interest, the vital role played by Indian capitalists and merchants in Southeast Asia, and the importance of the growing Chinese community as intermediaries between British and indigenous merchants. Anthony Webster traces the steps leading to the consolidation of British interest including the acquisition of Penang, the growth of British and Indian industrial and commercial interests, the establishment of Singapore, the settlement of Anglo-Dutch relations, and the expansion of British colonial administration. He also describes the creation of "informal empire" in various Malay states, Sarawak, and Siam, and the conclusion of the Anglo-Burmese wars.