A Modern History of Southeast Asia: Decolonization, Nationalism and Separatism

by Clive J. Christie

The massive transformations that occurred in the decade 1940-50 were decisive in shaping the modern history of Southeast Asia, and have determined the course of politics in the region right up to the present day.

The 1940s saw the break-up of the European colonial empires in Southeast Asia and the creation of independent nation states. However, this nationalist revolution met resistance, not only from the colonial powers, but also from peripheral communities and regions that felt their identity to be threatened by these emerging nation-states and by the ideologies dominating Asian nationalism. A number of secession movements developed and separatist rebellions broke out and, although no movement achieved its objectives, some were resurrected during the Cold War when the region came to be seen as a key strategic zone.

Genres: History

312 pages, Paperback

First published December 1, 1995

Reviews

[Ernest · Rating 5 out of 5]

An intelligent discussion of separatism in Southeast Asia, the book very clearly identifies trends of nationalism and decolonization that inform these separate, but definitely connected narratives. My own school studies Southeast Asian history, so some chapters may be familiar- others like that of South Molucca or even the Straits Chinese are interesting historical chapters that are often paved over in this subject, let alone a more general 'World History', 'History of Decol.', etc.

The book itself is divided into two parts, each consisting of a few short-ish chapters: one more broadly about nationalism, ethnic minorities and loyalism, and the other about Islam as a driver of separatism. Maps are astutely used to position these stories geographically, but rich details also flavor the author's analysis of the text. For those dealing with primary sources, a majority of relevant documents (declarations of independence, etc.) are all included too.