This book is an overview and understanding of Burma's tragic armed conflict in the twentieth century. Examining the 'causes' of the war, Shelby Tucker traces the political development of the country from the occupations by the British and Japanese and eventual independence in 1942, through the army coup of 1962 led by Ne Win, which established an authoritarian state, to the pro-democracy movement of the late 1980s.

Tucker examines Burma's drug trade; scrutinises Burma's civil rights record; examines the role of the Nationalist leader Aung Seng, who attempted to unite the various sections of the population; the impact of Seng's assassination and subsequent power struggles; and considers the future for a government faced with armed opposition from separatist movements among the ethnic minorities of Burma's regions.

About the Author
Shelby Tucker has travelled widely in Burma researching this book. During his time in the country he was captured by the Burmese Communist Party and interviewed most of the leaders of Burma's ethnic insurgents. He read law at Oxford University, and he is also the author of Among Insurgents: Walking Through Burma.

Reviews
'The most unusual and distinguished travel book I have read for years' -- Robert Carver, the Times Literary Supplement
'Outstanding' -- Foreign Affairs
'Offers a fresh and hard-hitting appraisal of Burma's troubles, past and present' -- Patricia Herbert, Curator of Southeast Asia Collection, British Library
'An outstanding, scholarly exposition of the complex history, tortured politics and diverse culture of this fascinating and beautiful country' -- Traveller magazine



Book Information
ISBN 9780745315416
Author Shelby Tucker
Format Paperback
Page Count 304
Imprint Pluto Press
Publisher Pluto Press
Weight(grams) 389g