Source A: Excerpt from a British merchant's journal, 1820:

'Lascar sailors, often from India and Southeast Asia, were employed extensively on British ships due to their skills, resilience, and affordability. Their presence was vital for maintaining trade routes across the Indian Ocean and beyond.'

Provenance: A British merchant's account, reflecting economic considerations of the period.

Source B: Government report, 1850:

'The British Empire's expansion increased demand for sailors from India and Southeast Asia, as European sailors were less willing to serve in distant tropical colonies. Lascars became the primary workforce due to their familiarity with the climate and their availability.'

Provenance: Official government report analyzing colonial maritime staffing.

Source C: Diary entry of a Lascar sailor, 1855:

'Despite our hard work, we faced discrimination and poor treatment from the British officers. Many of us were paid less than European sailors and had few rights.'

Provenance: Personal diary of a Lascar sailor, providing insight into their personal experiences.