Not just the bloody bits, please.

May 31, 2011 11:08 PM

What is the definitive history of Vietnam in English?

I'm not looking for a history of the Vietnam War, which understandably dominates the discussion; I'd like a generally readable (if possible) overview of the history of the region which now forms "Việt Nam." I am open to both "pop history" (if it's reliable) and scholarly monographs.

I can read a French history, if necessary.

posted by sonic meat machine to Grab Bag (2 answers total)

For an overview and links to some source materials, Wikipedia may be your friend: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/History_of_Vietnam
posted by Mister Bijou at 2:10 AM on June 1, 2011

Interesting that you asked for this as I'm just finishing up a class on learning about Vietnam and its history. The book Understanding Vietnam by Neil Jamieson was personally recommended by my professor as one of the most comprehensive book about Vietnam. My professor's experience as a Vietnamese refugee would have influenced him to be more careful in picking how many different aspects of Vietnam it is portraying instead of over generalizing or incorrectly stating the history and culture. It says something for him to use this particular book as part of the curriculum over countless readings out there. It might get slightly dry at times but overall a well balanced book.
posted by Kimchee.Noodles. at 6:47 AM on June 1, 2011 [1 favorite]