How interesting what you say about this book. Note that I haven't read it, but the theme of revisionist history and seeing things from other angles always catches my attention. It's like the author gives you a super-powerful idea, but if he doesn't back it up well with comparative data or address the key points you raise (like why they didn't build warships if they were so advanced, or the cotton fabrics in uniforms), then it falls flat.

Thank you for sharing your experience and being so detailed with your critique. You leave me thinking a lot about how history is written and interpreted. Super interesting!