This book is the first study to relate the political history of the South East Asian Monarchy to the politics of the region today. The excellent coverage of this fascinating subject should be of interest to the general reader.

The institution of monarchy has widely come to be regarded as a political anomaly. In South East Asia, however, this axiom is valid only up to a point. Monarchy in South East Asia explores the roles played by the monarchy in the political life of a region in which both ruling and constitutional monarchies continue to maintain considerable authority. Roger Kershaw's fascinating study looks at the continued influence which the monarchy has had in South East Asia and considers its prospects given the influence of alternative ruling families such as the the Suhartos and the Lees. He surveys the monarchical tradition in the region and traces the ways in which it has evolved to the systems currently in place. Subjects covered include: the impact and legacy of colonial rule the relationship between monarchy and democracy detailed case studies of Laos, Cambodia, Malaysia, Brunei and Thailand. This scholarly and comprehensive study is invaluable for students of Asian Studies and Comparative Politics. It is essential reading for anyone interested in the role of the monarchy in the modern world.

Preface Part One Opening Thoughts 1. Introduction Part Two Modern History 2. The colonial era: Varieties of Indirect Rule 3. On the eve of the present: after World War II 4. Indonesia: the exception that proves a rule? Part Three The latest phase 5. Laos: bowing off the stage of history 6. Cambodia: the King with nine lives 7. Malaysia:
monarchy overawed 8. Brunei: perks and perils of absolute rule 9. Thailand: A King for all seasons Part Four: Closing Thoughts 10. Monarchy and Democracy APPENDIX Further glimpses of the deeper past