A New History of Southeast Asia

A new, comprehensive, one volume history of Southeast Asia that spans prehistory to the present. Ricklefs brings together colleagues at the National University of Singapore whose expertise covers the entire region, encompassing political, social, economic, religious and cultural history. Opening with an account of the ethnic groups and initial cultural and social structures of Southeast Asia, the book moves through the early 'classical' states, the arrival of new global religions and the impact of non-indigenous actors. The history of early modern states and their colonial successors is followed by analysis of World War II across the region, Offering a definitive account of decolonisation and early post-colonial nation-building, the text then transports us to modern-day Southeast Asia, exploring its place in a world recovering from the financial crisis. The distinguished author team provide an authoritative and accessible narrative, drawing upon the latest research and offering detailed guidance on further reading. A landmark contribution to the field, this is an essential text for scholars, students and anyone interested in Southeast Asia.

M.C. Ricklefs, Bruce Lockhart, Albert Lau

Preface by M. C. Ricklefs Illustrations Maps Orthography Abbreviations and Acronyms Introduction Ethnic Groups, Early Cultures and Social Structures Early State Formation 'Classical' States at their Height New Global Religions and Ideas, from the Thirteenth Century The Rise of New States from the Fourteenth Century Non-indigenous Actors New and Old Early Modern Southeast Asian States Colonial Communities c.1800-1900 Reform, New Ideas and the 1930s Crisis (c.1900-1942) World War II in Southeast Asia (1942-1945) Regaining Independence in the Decades After 1945 Building Nations to c.1990 Boom and Bust in Southeast Asia c.1990-2008 Southeast Asia Today Recommended Readings Bibliography Index and Glossary.