While Deepening Our Understanding of Southeast Asia, This Fine Introduction Reminds Us of the Importance of History Itself.' Anthony Milner, Basham Professor of Asian History, Australian National University Still One of the Best Short Introductory Histories to the Region Even After Nine Editions.' Eric Tagliacozzo, Cornell University the First Edition of Southeast Asia an Introductory History Was Published in 1979 and Immediately Filled a Need for Travellers and Students Interested in a Tantalisingly Different Part of the World. Subsequent Editions Have Continued to Document With Great Perception the Enormous Changes and Dramatic Growth Experienced in the Region. Dr Milton Osborne Has Been a Resident, Student and Fascinated Observer of Southeast Asia for Over 40 Years. This Familiarity Has Resulted in a Highly Readable and Lively Chronicle. While Giving Due Regard to the Early History of the Region, Osborne Concentrates on the Changes That Have Taken Place Since the Eighteenth Centu