This classic, now in an expanded new edition, illuminates the tumultuous three-thousand-year history of Indochina from its beginnings to the present day. The first editions of this book were created in the 1980s in response to the wars in Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia. The driving force was the desire to learn more about these countries for which many had fought for independence. By the third edition (1988), the modern chapters had been updated and expanded. Now, a completely new section has been added that addresses current developments and the long-term consequences of the war. The Vietnam War was a traumatic turning point for the countries involved and also a prefiguration of future events. From today's perspective, its significance for modern history is clearly recognizable.