Vietnam Anatomy of a Peace

Vietnam has experienced huge political and economic development since the war. In Anatomy of a Peace, Gabriel Kolko looks at the main economic phases the Communist Party has embarked upon since 1986 and outlines the transition to nascent capitalism. He also explores Vietnam's relations to its neighbours and the US in the light of social and psychological national features.

Based on extensive research and over 30 years first hand experience, Anatomy of a Peace is a timely examination of recent history and developing economies in Asia. Gabriel Kolko argues that neither an intentional socialist or market strategy have determined recent Vietnamese history and, in fact, the Communist Party has little control over development during peace time.

Review: ..."the book is complex in argument, more complex than its over-heated rhetoric would at first suggest, and indefatigably researched. Challenging and advancing the discussion of "renovation...""The Journal of Asian Studies."

"Because Kolko gives such serious consideration to the question of social equity, anyone who dismisses him out of hand is probably saying more about themselves than about this book. Unsparing and brilliant, "Vietnam: Anatomy of a Peace should be read by anyone who ever cared about Vietnam."

-"The Nation, 11/97

"Gabriel Kolko, an academic and an activist involved in the 60s anti-war movement, wrestles in the most eloquent passages of his new book with historical ironies."

-"Word Quarterly

"This is an important, if depressing, book."

-"The Globe and Mail, 8/97

"[A] fine book by one of the wisest independent chroniclers of the century."

-"The Guardian