History of Myanmar Since Ancient Times
Aung-Thwin, Michael; Aung-Thwin, Maitrii
The Republic of the Union of Myanmar, known amongst English speakers as Burma, is often characterized as a place of repressive military rule, civil war, censorship and corrupt elections – and despite recent attempts to promote tourism to this little-known country, few people visit this region of Asia.
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 Bagan 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 over nearly three millennia, from the relics of its Neolithic civilization to the protests of Buddhist monks in the early twentieth century, the colonial era of British rule and the republic that followed. The authors also consider the present-day life, culture and society of the largest country in mainland Southeast Asia and examine the 2010 elections – its first in over twenty years.
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.
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About Aung-Thwin, Michael; Aung-Thwin, Maitrii
Reviews for History of Myanmar Since Ancient Times
Journal of Southeast Asian Studies
This new book by two well-known historicans provides a very good introduction to Myanmars 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 Myanmars 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
offers an alternative perspective to [Burmese history] . . . a compelling and seductive narrative that can be traced over centuries
Jonathan Saha, South East Asia Research
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 Myanmars 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, University of London