The Tragedy of Cambodian History: Politics, War, and Revolution Since 1945

by David P. Chandler

Book Overview

The political history of Cambodia between 1945 and 1979, which culminated in the devastating revolutionary excesses of the Pol Pot regime, is one of unrest and misery. This book by David P. Chandler is the first to give a full account of this tumultuous period. Drawing on his experience as a foreign service officer in Phnom Penh, on interviews, and on archival material. Chandler considers why the revolution happened and how it was related to Cambodia's...

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0300057520
• ISBN13: 9780300057522
• Release Date: September 1993
• Publisher: Yale University Press
• Length: 408 Pages
• Weight: 1.50 lbs.
• Dimensions: 1.2" x 6.1" x 9.2"

Customer Reviews

Insightful Analysis

Chandler, the most eminent scholar of Cambodia, has provide an easy to follow and insightful account of Cambodia's recent history. Whilst perhaps not designed for those with no base knowledge in Cambodian history, a read of the relevant section of a general Asian history book will provide all the background knowledge necessary. The Tragedy of Cambodian History traces not only the significant events since 1945 but also, through doing so, traces the lives of people such as Nuon Chea who were to become instrumental in the disastrous events from April 17, 1975. I would recommend this to be read before either of Kiernan's major works on the topic as they provide more facts which new readers are liable to get bogged down in. Perfect for those who feel the need to understand one of the worst cases of man's inhumanity to man.