The focus of my research is the history of Southeast Asia, primarily the national and independence movements of the maritime region. The 19th century was the beginning of the period often referred to as "modern colonialism". This phenomenon resulted in the creation of – colonial – states that had never existed before. Later, these colonies established during the 19th and 20th centuries would be the scenes for the emergence of national self-consciousness and independence movements. My research question is therefore primarily focused on how these national movements drawing from both Western and local ideas could have formed in these previously non-existent states. In addition to the national movements of Southeast Asia, my research also covers Asia as well as some African countries through the examination of issues such as colonization, decolonization, and non-European international relations.