Book excerpt: Presents the historical development of Burma, Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, Vietnam, Malaysia, Indonesia, and the Philippines--from the earliest times to the present, in 64 large color maps. The content and historical context of the maps is explicated in the thoroughly cross-referenced introductory matter. No attempt is made here to provide a comprehensive survey of South-East Asian history, but rather to provide background on the emergence, decline, and downfall of states and empires; territorial changes; border conflicts; expeditions; wars; and so forth. Access is via an index of personal names occurring in the text and an index of geographical names in the maps and text. The bibliography is arranged by geographical area. 9.5x12.5" Annotation copyright by Book News, Inc., Portland, OR