Summary
Mongolia was first united in the 13th century by the legendary figure Genghis Khan. At its height, the Mongolian Empire stretched from the Pacific Ocean to the Black Sea. In later periods, the empire was dismantled, and first China and then the Soviet Union exerted control over Mongolia. Today, change is once again redefining the social, political, and economic features of Mongolia. The Buddhist traditions that were once repressed are flourishing again, and the country is struggling to implement economic reforms such as privatizing the economy and reigning in government spending.
Mongolia is a new volume in the Nations in Transition series. The book explores the history, culture, and lifestyle of a society that has long intrigued the Western world, and it brings to life a country and a people most readers know little about. Providing an in-depth look at Mongolia's past and current situation, this book offers a comprehensive survey of the various political, economic, social, and cultural changes Mongolians have endured over the past 800 years. A major focus is how the country has fared recently, including its difficult transition from decades as a Soviet satellite state to sudden and complete independence. A valuable resource for interested students and general readers alike, Mongolia is a great introduction to a fascinating country and people.
Specifications
25 black-and-white photographs and illustrations. 1 map. Index. Bibliography. Chronology.
About the Author(s)
Jennifer L. Hanson has an M.A. (magna cum laude) in history and literature from Harvard University. She is the author of The Real Freshman Handbook and editor of Medicine and Society in America, an anthology used in A.P. high school history classes.
Introduction author Richard Bohr is professor of history and director of Asian studies at Saint John's University, Minnesota. Among his publications are Famine in China and the Missionary and Midwest USA/China Resource Guide.