This fascinating travelogue was made in 1934, in the era when China was in the grip of the Imperial nations. America operated its own fleet of warships in Chinese waters, to protect American interests, especially the tankers belonging to Standard Oil. Shown in the film are various U.S. Navy warships and gunboats, and although none are identified by name the USS Augusta (CA-31), flagship for the Asiatic fleet, is clearly visible. Canton and Shanghai are cities visited during the course of the film, and the shores of the Whangpoo River. The sailors of the Asiatic Fleet, who by Navy standards lived easy lives (many routine tasks were performed by live-aboard Chinese), are seen in the film enjoying many sights, including Race Day.

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