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,...