As conflicts continue in Iraq and political tensions mount in China, the world is beginning to take notice of Central Asia as the crossroads between the Middle East, Asia, and Europe. "Central Asia: A Global Studies Handbook" explores the three central states of the region, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, and Kyrgyzstan, and provides insight to their past, present, and future.

The first of its kind, this reference work covers a wide range of topics on Central Asia as a whole. From the geography, history, and economics to politics, education, and religion, students and teachers will find this an...

"Japan: A Global Studies Handbook" offers a friendly introduction to this vital, ancient country. In a series of practical, readable essays, this title explores Japan's island geography and its influence on the nation's history. "Japan" traces the "economic miracle" that was born in the ashes of World War II and grew into an economy seven times the size of China's--but at considerable social cost.

It examines Japan's vibrant cultural traditions--from the 11th century's "The Tale of Genji" to karaoke, sushi, and the "salary man." "Japan" entices readers to continue their exploration by...

An essential guide that goes beyond the surface of food and fantasy, "Thailand: A Global Studies Handbook" offers important insight into the nation's history, culture, politics, fine arts, religion, and language. It sheds light on many often little understood facets of everyday Thai life and customs.

The work covers a historical period of 800 years, documenting pivotal events and personalities, and presents an overview of the Thai economy, with a focus on the economic crisis of the 1990s and recent developments. Thai society is examined in detail, including education and the monarchy,...

This volume focuses on an often misunderstood nation with vast economic and cultural influence in the United States and around the world. It combines thoroughly up-to-date coverage of Japan's history, geography, politics, economics, and society, with a range of helpful reference tools.

Delving deeper than typical reference books, "Asia in Focus: Japan" is the ideal authoritative introduction to Japanese life for students, businesspeople, travelers, and other interested readers. The volume offers a contemporary look at the Japanese economy, extensive cultural coverage, and a rich...

It's not hard to understand why Koreans describe their lives as "han," which means "living with a great and sustained sorrow." In the 20th century alone, they endured a 35 year Japanese military occupation, one of the most brutal civil wars in history, and decades of occupation by rival superpowers.

Yet the story of this hauntingly beautiful, mountainous land is not ultimately one of war and devastation. "The Koreas: A Global Studies Handbook" tells the story of a warm and generous people who have retained their distinctive language and culture despite repeated foreign occupations,...

Beginning with a lengthy introduction to Vietnam's past, this book traces the historical context that serves as a foundation for the present-day society and culture of this Southeast Asian nation. Intended for nonspecialists and other Asian enthusiasts, this work gives readers a thorough understanding of this diverse, richly storied land. From Vietnam's indigenous dynasties to outside influences including Buddhism, Confucianism, Western imperialism, and the Chinese bureaucracy system, the long path to a Vietnamese identity is traced--one that showcases a people's resilience, creativity,...

"Indonesia" examines precolonial periods of the country's development, as well as its independence movement. It discusses the economic collapse of the 1990s and how the resultant civil chaos impacted Indonesia's present political and social problems and its neighbors.

This book also looks at the secessionist movements in West Papua and Aceh and the religious conflict in eastern Indonesia. In addition to current events, the coverage focuses on important individuals, from Javanese nobles to President Sukarno, whom some

considered to be a Japanese collaborator during World War II. This...

With a population second only to China's and the birthplace of Hinduism and Buddhism, it is hard to dispute India's central role in both the history of Asian culture and in the defining position it enjoys today. Although India has grabbed media attention for its armed conflict with Pakistan, it is a nation perhaps more notable for its internal diversity and challenges than for a single external conflict.

"India: A Global Studies Handbook" unites the geography, history, culture, notable people, and events into a wide-ranging yet concise work that brings this fascinating land to the page....

Often overshadowed on the world stage by issues surrounding India and Pakistan, Nepal and Bangladesh are nonetheless vital players in this theater of Asia. "Nepal and Bangladesh" brings a refreshing level of clarity to a wide variety of topics surrounding both nations including history, current affairs, business and economics, culture, literature, political science, and travel.

Written in a voice that speaks to general audiences from secondary instructors to interested business people and travelers to the region, this handbook paints a portrait of both countries that is at once complete...