Vietnam: A Global Studies Handbook

(Hardback)

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Description

While most Americans might still think of Vietnam as little more than the site of a war that spread from the 1960s to the 1970s, such broad typecasting glosses over a complicated and frequently misrepresented country. This volume brings the nation's dynamic history, society and religious institutions to the page. Beginning with a lengthy introduction to Vietnam's past, this book traces the historical context that serves as a foundation for the present-day society and culture of this Southeast Asian nation. Intended for nonspecialists and other Asian enthusiasts, this work gives readers a thorough understanding of this diverse, richly storied land. From Vietnam's indigenous dynasties to outside influences including Buddhism, Confucianism, Western imperialism, and the Chinese bureaucracy system, the long path to a Vietnamese identity is traced-one that showcases a people's resilience, creativity, and intense love of freedom. This volume includes translations of numerous primary documents. From the narrative sections on Vietnamese history and society to the AZ format of significant people and events, Vietnam: A Global Studies Handbook brings Vietnam to life.

Reviews

"These and other titles in the Global Studies: Asia series provide good overviews for high school and undergraduate students.' (Combined review with Nepal and Bangladesh)" - Booklist "This volume provides comprehensive information ... contains a wealth of information..." - School Library Journal "[U]sers have a useful, compact, and authoritative handbook on Vietnam, including its past and present ... Vietnam's economy, institutions, society, and contemporary issues receive thoughtful treatment... The author's style is very readable throughout. This title is also available as an eBook. The index is well organized ... [This] contribution to our understanding of Vietnam is valuable, well researched, and well written." - American Reference Books Annual

Author Bio

L. Shelton Woods is associate professor of history at Boise State University, Boise, ID.