International Trade Collection

Welcome signs, Laem Tong beach, Phi Phi Don Island, Thailand, Southeast Asia, Asia

Cartoon protesting Jeffersons trade embargo, 1807
Cartoon protesting the Embargo Act passed by President Thomas Jefferson in 1807 Hand-colored woodcut of a 19th-century illustration

International trade
LLM456375 International trade by English School, (19th century); Private Collection; (add.info.: International trade. Illustration fom The New Popular Educator (Cassell)

Peace, but not business. 1885 (colour litho)
1065648 Peace, but not business. 1885 (colour litho) by Gillam, Bernard (1856-96); Private Collection; (add.info.: Illustration shows a perplexed Uncle Sam standing in front of a store labeled ")

Cuba becoming a market for US goods, 1903
Cuba addressing Uncle Sam, " I come to buy, not beg, sir, " 1903. Hand-colored woodcut of a W.A. Rogers cartoon

Insignia of the African Company, 1588
African Company arms, incorporated in London in 1588. Hand-colored woodcut reproduction of a 16th-century illustration

A Ship Anchors Off The Coast Of Astoria; Astoria, Oregon, United States Of America

A Ship Anchors In The Fog On The Columbia River; Astoria, Oregon, United States Of America

A Container Ship Emerges From The Fog; Astoria, Oregon, United States Of America

Satellite view of Earth featuring cloudless view of India, China, Russia, and Pakistan

Prince of Tokyo freighter at Port Vancouver in British Columbia, Canada

First US diplomatic mission to Japan, 1856
Townsend Harris, first American diplomat in Japan, escorted into Shimoda, 1856. Hand-colored woodcut of a 19th-century illustration

BUSN2A-00165
Uncle Sam applying a steel cinch on the globe, a cartoon symbolizing the dominance of the American steel industry, 1901. Hand-colored woodcut of a 1901 illustration

BUSN2A-00127
Front of the old British East India House. Hand-colored woodcut of a 19th century illustration

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International trade has been the lifeblood of nations for centuries, connecting people and cultures across vast distances. From the moment a ship anchors off the coast of Astoria, Oregon, to the emergence of a container ship from dense fog, these welcome signs signify the global exchange that shapes our world. Even in history's pages, we find evidence of its influence. A cartoon protesting Jefferson's trade embargo in 1807 reveals how restrictions can hinder progress and stifle economic growth. Yet, as seen in an insignia dating back to 1588, organizations like the African Company sought to navigate these challenges and forge profitable connections. The pursuit of peace often intertwines with international trade; however, it is not always synonymous with business interests alone. In an enchanting lithograph from 1885, we witness how diplomacy may transcend commerce but remain essential for fostering harmonious relationships between nations. As technology advanced and our view expanded beyond borders, satellite imagery unveiled cloudless vistas showcasing India, China, Russia, and Pakistan—a testament to their interconnectedness through intricate trading networks spanning continents. Cuba's transformation into a market for US goods in 1903 exemplifies how they are reshape economies and cultivate new opportunities. Meanwhile, Prince of Tokyo freighter at Port Vancouver stands as a symbol of Canada's role as a vital hub linking North America with Asia-Pacific markets. In this tapestry woven by international trade lies another pivotal moment—the first US diplomatic mission to Japan in 1856—marking not only political breakthroughs but also opening doors for mutually beneficial commercial ties that endure till today. From ancient times to modernity’s shores, International trade connects us all. Through welcome signs on distant lands, We glimpse its power held within hands. Cartoons protest embargoes past, While insignias remind us steadfast, That even then amidst strife’s stormy sea, Trade sailed forth seeking prosperity. Peace emerges alongside commerce’s might, As lithographs paint a harmonious sight.