In A History of Myanmar since Ancient Times, Michael Aung-Thwin and Maitrii Aung-Thwin take us from the sacred stupas of the plains of Pagan to the grand, colonial-era British mansions, revealing the storied past and rich culture of this country. The book traces the traditions and transformations of Myanmar's communities over nearly three millennia, from the relics of its Neolithic civilization to the splendors of its pre-colonial kingdoms, its encounters with British colonialism and the struggles for the republic that followed the end of the Second World War. The authors also consider the complexities of present-day life in Myanmar and examine the key political events and debates of the last 25 years that have brought the world's attention to the country. By exploring current developments within the broader patterns of Myanmar's history, culture and society, the book provides a nuanced perspective on the issues and questions surrounding Myanmar's future. This updated edition considers the changes that have taken place since the elections of 2010, the reforms that the civilian government introduced and the ramifications of the country's new international status. It also assesses the implications of the 2012 by-elections, the ensuing political dynamics among various stakeholders and the continuing socio-economic challenges facing Myanmar in the twenty-first century. The most comprehensive history of Myanmar ever published in the English language, this book makes a significant contribution to our understanding of Southeast Asian history and will surprise, challenge and inform in equal measure.

About the Author
Michael Aung-Thwin is Chair and Professor of the Asian Studies Program at the University of Hawai'i at Manoa. He is the author of The Mists of Ramanna: The Legend that was Lower Burma (2005) and co-editor of New Perspectives on the History and Historiography of Southeast Asia: Continuing Explorations (2011). Maitrii Aung-Thwin is Associate Professor of Southeast Asian and Burmese History at the National University of Singapore. He is author of The Return of the Galon King: History, Law, and Rebellion in Colonial Burma (2011) and co-author of A New History of Southeast Asia (2010).

Reviews
'This book is a bold and thought-provoking work that should be read by all serious students of Myanmar. It offers a major reinterpretation of Myanmar history, in part by relating broad historical trends to more recent developments.' - Dr Andrew Selth, Journal of Southeast Asian Studies 'This new book by two well-known historians provides a very good introduction to Myanmar's history from the premodern period to the present. The book is written in an engaging style ... But it is not just a superficial recounting of events. The authors examine longstanding discussions in academic circles about Myanmar's history, exploring, for example, the role of Buddhism, the reasons behind the rise and fall of its royal dynasties, and the impact of colonization and WWII on the country. Highly recommended.' - Choice 'An original research-based history of Myanmar through the centuries is long overdue. A History of Myanmar since Ancient Times is an essential volume for anyone seeking to understand the warp and woof of that little-known society today. Michael and Maitrii Aung-Thwin have gone back to original sources to explain the structure of Myanmar's history in a readable, but highly informed and original single volume.' - Robert H. Taylor, author of The State in Myanmar 'A strongly-argued book with a clearly stated perspective. This is a stimulating, often pugnacious reading of the history of Myanmar.' - Professor Ian Brown, Department of History, School of Oriental and African Studies



Book Information
ISBN 9781780231723
Author Michael Aung-Thwin
Format Paperback
Page Count 304
Imprint Reaktion Books
Publisher Reaktion Books