A Muslim Archipelago: Islam and Politics in Southeast Asia

This book is with a contemporary focus.  Author, Dr. Max Gross’s purpose is to use history to explain today’s Islamic insurgencies in Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, and the Philippines and to offer perspectives for the future.

 Muslim Archipalego’s unique contribution is that it brings together in one reference a mass of information on the insurgencies in Southeast Asia.  The country accounts are detailed and thorough as to events, organizations, dates, and participants.  The chronological context provides Dr. Gross the opportunity to give insights about historical casualty.  His accounting highlights the interaction of the insurgencies within Southeast Asia and their international connection outside the region.  The detailed presentations in the chapters on Indonesia and Philippines are especially fruitful.

 Included in this nearly 280 page book are detailed four-color regional maps, charts, and historical photos spread throughout the text.  An extensive bibliography and index are included.