History As Propaganda: Tibetan Exiles versus the People's Republic of China
"History as Propagandais a fascinating study of how historical sources and events are selectively and subjectively interpreted by Chinese propagandists, Tibetan exiles, and Western scholars for the purpose of furthering diametrically opposed political claims. Powers presents well-reasoned arguments that challenge many facile assumptions about Tibets complex relationships with successive Chinese administrations. The authors critical yet balanced approach is destined to ruffle feathers on both sides of the political chasm. This is a must read for anybody who is interested in Tibets political status, and is a welcome contribution to the literature concerning nationalism, ethnicity, and historical argumentation." --Geoff Childs, author ofTibetan Diary: From Birth to Death and Beyond in a Himalayan Valley of Nepal"This is a useful, clear-headed, and profoundly discouraging account of two deeply held but completely incommensurate versions of the Tibetan past and present.... Powers provides a balanced guide through the literature with this entirely reliable account of versions of history credible only to true believers on each side."--CHOICE"History as Propagandaprovides a scholarly and dispassionate examination of ways in which Chinese and Tibetans project their claims and counter-claims in the international arena. The book should appeal to all those interested in Tibetan affairs." --Tsering Shakya, author ofThe Dragon in the Landof Snows