A History of Laos

by Martin Stuart-Fox

Overview

This authoritative and wide-ranging history focuses on the period from the founding of modern Laos as a French colony to its independence, involvement in the war in Vietnam, the formation of the communist republic, and the present authoritarian government. The author shows how the nationalist struggle for independence and unity was subverted by foreign intervention, and how the country has now resumed its traditional role as a neutral state in Southeast Asia. This book provides essential background on modern Laos and the challenges it now faces.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780521597463
Publisher:	Cambridge University Press
Publication date:	09/28/1997
Edition description:	New Edition
Pages:	272
Sales rank:	268,906
Product dimensions:	5.98(w) x 9.02(h) x 0.63(d)

Table of Contents

1. The kingdom of Lan Xang; 2. French Laos; 3. Independence and unity; 4. Neutrality subverted; 5. War and revolution; 6. The Lao People's Democratic Republic.

Editorial Reviews

"A more developed nationalistic historiography will provide ideological support for an inclusive national identity. Stuart-Fox's book is a significant step in that direction for the most poorly developed national historiography in Southeast Asia. Choice

"...a significant contribution to our understanding of the tumultuous history of modern Laos." Steven H. Lee, International Journal

"This brief and readable book belongs on the shelf of anyone concerned with modern Laos." David K. Wyatt, Journal of Asian Studies

"He writes with consistent, readable grace. He has succeeded, perhaps for the first time, finally in making modern (recent) Lao hsitory understandable and believable. This brief and readable book belongs on the shelf of anyone concerned with modern Laos." David K. Wyatt, The Journal of Asian Studies

"...Stuart-Fox has produced a coherent, logically organized, well-documented, and readable narrative of modern Lao history. His work is the best account of modern Lao....The book will no doubt lead to a better understanding of Lao political dynamics, and it should serve as a guide for future scholars who wish to delve deeper into the rich history Laos." Richard B. Verrone, Crossroads

From the Publisher