Mon Nationalism and Civil War in Burma: The Golden Sheldrake

ISBN-13: 9780700716098 / Angielski / Twarda / 2002 / 448 str.

Ashley South; Ashley South MR

Opis

This book is a political history of the Mon people of lower Burma and Thailand - the people of the Golden Sheldrake. The Mon are renowned for their important civilising role in pre-colonial Southeast Asia and achievements in the fields of art and religion. However, contemporary Mon society has until now received less attention. Charting Mon history from the earliest times to the present, Ashley South describes the origins of Burma's ethnic politics in the pre-colonial era and developments during the British (and Japanese) colonial periods. Following independence in 1948, Burma was plunged into a civil war which still drags on today. The book explores the background to and major episodes in the war, and compares the experiences of various parties to the conflict, including the Mon, Karen and Kachin ethnic communities and insurgent organisations. It provides unique insights into the dynamics of armed conflict in Burma, and examines the controversial series of ceasefire agreements negotiated since 1989, between various insurgent armies and the military government. Exploring the relationship between the Burmese democracy movement led by Aung San Suu Kyi, the ethnic insurgents, internat

Recenzje

'South's detailed and authoritative book is a must for all interested in Mon history and ethnic minority politics, and for those curious about the dynamics of the civil war and conflicy that has raged in Burma for more than 50 years.' - The Irrawaddy

'Thoroughly researched and full of insights born of personal involvement.' - Asian Affairs

'A very informative, comprehensive and yet concise survey of the social, political and military aspects of Mon nationalist movements in 20th century Burma.' - International Quarterly for Asian Studies

'Fascinating account of a people who are almost unknown outside the region, and who are stuggling to preserve their identity in a rapidly changing world.' -  Journal of the Siam Society

Spis treści

Part I: The Mon in Burma and Thailand
Part II. Classical Mon Civilisation and the Colonial Period
Part III. Independence, Civil War and Ethnic Insurgency
Part IV. Revolutionaries, Warlords and Refugees
Part V. The Mon Ceasefire and Since
Part VI. The Sheldrake and the Peacock

O autorze

Mr Ashley South