The Historical Dimension of French Asian Studies: EFEO’s Origin and Research Activities

Abstract

What was the historical dimension of French Asian studies? The EFEO (École Française d ’ Extrême-Orient) was founded in 1900 with headquarters in Hanoi in what was then French Indochina. The EFEO ’ s main mission was defined as archaeological exploration, collection of manuscripts, preservation of monuments, making lists of ethnic groups, linguistic studies, and the study of the history of all Asian civilizations, in particular from South Asia to Northeast Asia. This study examines EFEO ’ s origin, mission, networks, organization, research activities and partnerships. Its achievement could help develop Asian studies emphasizing on ‘ Trans United Asia on the Move. ’ Abstract