Islam and Nation Separatist Rebellion in Aceh, Indonesia [Hardcover]

Rooted in the latest theoretical debates about nationalism and ethnicity, yet written in an accessible and engaging style,Islam and Nationpresents a fascinating study of the genesis, growth and decline of a nationalist movement.Drawing on hundreds of interviews with nationalist leaders, activists and guerillas, Aspinall reveals how the Free Aceh Movement went from being a quixotic fantasy to a guerilla army in the space of a generation, leading to a bitter conflict in which thousands perished. And by exploring the complex relationship between Islam and nationalism, Aspinall also explains how a society famed for its Islamic piety gave rise to a guerilla movement that ended up rejecting the Islamic goals of its forebears.Islam and Nationis a tour de force in the study of nationalist politics. It will be of great interest to readers concerned about Southeast Asia, Islamic politics, ethnic conflict and nationalism everywhere. An outstanding pioneer work,Islam and Nationwill surely stand as an invitation to scholars both in Aceh and beyond to examine the conflict from other perspectives. Edward Aspinall is a researcher in the Department of Political and Social Change, Research School of Pacific and Asian Studies, Australian National University. He is the author ofOppasing Suharta Compromise, Resistance and Regime Charge in Indonesia(Stanford, 2005). This book tells the story of Aceh's armed nationalist movement with unprecedented authority, thoroughness and clarity. It will be the standard account of the Aceh rebellion for a long time to come. Islam and Nationpresents a fascinating study of the genesis, growth and decline of nationalism in the Indonesian province of Aceh. Islam and Nationprovides a detailed account of the struggle and conflict in Aceh that draws from the views and perspectives of a wide spectrum of actors who have been involved, including political leaders, rebels and non-governmental organizations. Together withló'