ABSTRACT
This chapter provides a brief review of the historical process of Xiamen's economic development. Emphasis is put on Xiamen's unique links with Southeast Asia, Taiwan, the overseas Chinese, and the period when it became a Treaty Port. Xiamen was first brought to the notice of the world in the days of the South Song Dynasty, when it was described by Marco Polo as 'isles of the sea'. When Taiwan was first incorporated into China in 1683, it was under the same jurisdiction of the Fujian Government and the command of the Taixia Military District as Xiamen. Thus, it seems fair to say that Xiamen had served not only as the bridge linking the mainland and Taiwan together but also as Taiwan's gateway to the outside world. The opening of Xiamen as a Treaty Port and the subsequent expansion of foreign trade attracted more European and American merchants to set up a variety of businesses there.
