Long isolated by rigid military rule, Burma, or Myanmar, is one of the least known, significantly sized states in the world. David I. Steinberg sheds new light on this reclusive state by exploring issues of authority and legitimacy in its politics, economics, social structure, and culture since the popular uprising and military coup of 1988. Exploring the origins of that year's tumultuous events, Steinberg analyzes a generation of preceding military governments and their attempts to address the nation's problems. This paperback edition includes a postscript that reveals the most current and critical issues facing Burma since the publications of the original hardvoer in March 2001. Steinberg brings readers up to date on the recent release of political prisoners, economic and military conditions, United Nations actions, and the complex, ever-changing relationship between Thailand and Myanmar.