Burmese Kaleidoscope: Journey into a Lost Era 1948-1988

Authors: Harry Hpone and Axel Bruns

Explores Burma’s post-independence history (1948–1988) through personal and societal narratives that reflect everyday life under shifting political and economic regimes. Describes train travel, cinema culture, black market dynamics, and the rice trade to illustrate the lived experiences of Burmese citizens. Examines the far-reaching effects of government policies such as demonetization and nationalization on all levels of society, from large industries and banks to small businesses and rural farmers. Discusses the resilience and adaptability of the Burmese people during the collapse of the socialist system and the upheaval of the 1988 uprising. Includes cultural beliefs in Nats, the supernatural beings of Burma.