Long isolated by rigid military rule, Burma, or Myanmar, is one of the least known, significantly sized states in the world. Possessed of a rich cultural history yet facing a range of challenges to stability and growth, it has struck the imaginations of those concerned not only with geopolitical or trade affairs but also with poverty, health, and human rights. David I. Steinberg sheds new light on this reclusive state by exploring issues of authority and legitimacy in its politics, economics, social structure, and culture since the popular uprising and military coup of 1988. Exploring the origins of that year's tumultuous events, Steinberg analyzes a generation of preceding military governments and their attempts to address the nation's problems. He focuses on the role of the military, the effects of Burma's geopolitical placement, the plight of the poor, the destruction of civil society, and rising ethnic tensions. While taking into account the importance of foreign observers as counterpoints to official views, suppliers of economic aid, and advocates of reform, Steinberg contends that ultimately, the solutions to Myanmar's varied problems lie with the Burmese themselves and the policies of their government. This paperback edition includes a postcript that reveals the most current and critical issues facing Burma since the publication of the original hardcover in March 2001. Steinberg brings readers up to date on the recent release of political prisoners, economic and military conditions, United Nations actions, and the complex, ever-changing relationship between Thailand and Myanmar.

[Combines] excellent analysis with insight and sympathetic understanding to produce a compelling picture of the dismal Burmese scene and why both Burmese and foreigners have such difficulty trying to change it. -- Morton Abramowitz, former Assistant Secretary of State and Senior Fellow, Century Foundation One of our foremost experts on Burma/Myanmar has produced an in-depth analysis of this reclusive state, interweaving the past and the present. Steinberg's work will be extremely valuable to those interested in modern Asia. -- Robert A. Scalapino, University of California, Berkeley Steinberg has written the perfect kind of book for a new public policy debate about Myanmar. It is based on four decades of study and solid objective analysis. Fair minded and informative. -- Ezra Vogel, Harvard University

About the Author
David I. Steinberg is the director of Asian studies at Georgetown University's School of Foreign Service and a senior consultant to the Asia Foundation. He is the author of ten books, including The Future of Burma: Crisis and Choice in Myanmar (1990).

Reviews
Illuminate[s] every nook and cranny of a country that has been trying to hide from the world. Foreign Affairs Well-written and easily digested. Pacific Affairs This serious analysis should not be ignored. Choice



Book Information
ISBN 9780878408931
Author David I. Steinberg
Format Paperback
Page Count 384
Imprint Georgetown University Press
Publisher Georgetown University Press
Weight(grams) 522g