Abstract

Macau’s experience in the Second World War (1937-1945) is often portrayed as exceptional and, especially during the occupation of neighbouring Hong Kong, isolated. However, even in a time of conflict that disrupted lives, transportation and communications, the territory remained a site of multiple connections. Focusing on the movement of refugees and on different relief activities, this talk will begin by drawing attention to similarities between neutral Macau and Hong Kong in the early years of the conflict. Then, it will consider how connections between the two territories were maintained and reshaped during the Japanese occupation of Hong Kong. In particular, it will reflect on the role of the Red Cross in Macau in enabling regional and global connections. Finally, it will consider the legacies of these wartime connections in the post-war period. Drawing on several years of multi-sited archival research, this presentation sheds light on practices of neutrality and relief, and on displacement and mobility during and after the Second World War.