A lucid and concise introduction to the histories of the modern countries of South East Asia, providing an essential guide for both tourists and the general reader. It spans the history of the region from 'Java Man' some one million years ago to the development of high-tech, sky-scraper cities of the new millennium. South East Asia has always inter-reacted with the wider world, and throughout the book the ability of South East Asians to absorb and adapt alien influences whether from Europe or the rest of Asia - is stressed. Readers will appreciate how South East Asia's soul has been preserved against tremendous external pressures.