Crossing the Bay of Bengal: The Furies of Nature and the Fortunes of Migrants Kindle Edition

Extraordinary review of historical background for the role the Bay played in the population migrations that have shaped South and Southeast Asia. Provides an understanding of the likely geopolitical role that is emerging, particularly in Southeast Asia. This book provides a quick education about a region that will predictably witness China's desire to extend its zone of influence. Along with Robert Kaplan's book "Monsoon: The Indian Ocean and The Future of American Power", this book provides comprehensive coverage of a region whose importance will only grow in the future.

If you are curious about why Muslims are in Indonesia or Myanmar, how the spice trade fueled mass migrations across the bay of Bengal, why the Japanese invaded Malaysia and how the British East India company dominated trade in this region in the18th and 19th centuries then you may be interested in this book. A little academic at times but overall worthwhile

Very good on past 500 or so years but weak on the earlier when Indian cultural influence in SE Asia was at its height and Austronesians ruled he seas even before Indians, well before the Arabs and long before the Chinese

Illuminating and beautifully written. Shared with my husband who liked it so much we ordered copies as gifts to friends.

I have a personal knowledge of the history of this region and have traveled it. I am also well read. This book in popular english literature has no equal. If you thirst for knowledge read it!

I loved the book

Super! Thanks.

Comprehensive and informative.