Description
Book SynopsisAn active member of the U. S. Foreign Service until 2001, William B. Milam possesses an exhaustive knowledge of the history and culture of Bangladesh and Pakistan. His insightful study expresses a profound empathy for both countries and, with the death of Benazir Bhutto and the decline of Pervez Musharraf, could not be a timelier contribution to current debates concerning the stability of the region. Since 1971, Pakistan has evolved into a praetorian state plagued by army interventions and corrupt civilian governments. Nevertheless, the tunnel-vision of General Musharraf triggered a political implosion in 2007, and widespread dismay over the assassination of Benazir Bhutto has led Pakistanis to vote overwhelmingly for unfettered civilian rule and the diminishment of religious parties. In contrast, the Bangladesh Army seems intent on returning control to civilians, having remained averse to power for the past seventeen years. Furthermore, Bangladeshi society isn't nearly as Islamicized as Pakistan's, though jihadi groups stand ready to exploit the government's weaknesses. Milam takes a hard look at the political and religious realities of both countries, especially the al-Qaeda-linked jihadi networks that threaten to permanently turn Pakistan into an ideological state. He also considers Islam's undeniable influence on the culture of both societies, and, in turn, the influence of these cultures on the tone and expression of Islam. Milam includes an examination of the fear and hostility Pakistan has exhibited toward India, which has resulted in three wars and at least one mini-war.
Trade ReviewA highly accessible, enlightening, and instructive book. * Friday Times (Lahore) *
William Milam was one of those rare US envoys, a trouble-shooter who served in some of the world's most unstable countries, giving him deep knowledge of why democracy failed in so many. This brilliant comparative analysis, revealing the inner workings of South Asia's two most troubled states, is a must read for anyone interested in how and why they have evaded democratic governance. Ahmed Rashid, author of Descent into Chaos and The Taliban -- Ahmed Rashid, author of 'Descent into Chaos' and 'The Taliban'
Milam's book is not only eminently readable, but also a most timely reminder of the volatile atmosphere in two significant states of South Asia. In Milam’s view, 'like a thorn in the foot, Islamism is an unnatural addition to the Bangladeshi polity that can be easily removed when governments become more efficient and effective.' However, in Pakistan, if the ambiguity of the army towards the jihadists persists under the civilian government now in charge, Pakistan may become, before the war on terror ends, part of the terrorist problem instead of part of the solution. * The Book Review *
With Bangladesh and Pakistan both reaching critical tipping-points, William B. Milam's book could not be more timely. I found the chapters on Bangladesh particularly insightful and perceptive as I prepared to lead a National Democratic Institute mission to that country. -- Tom Daschle, former U.S. Senator and Senate Majority Leader
Ambassador Milam has written an extremely valuable book--in effect, a comparative history of the state in Pakistan and Bangladesh since the partition of United Pakistan in 1971. The clarity of Milam's writing, the comprehensiveness of his coverage, and the underlying terms of his argument make this book essential reading for anyone with an interest in South Asian politics. Indeed, as a teaching tool, this book is simply indispensable. Every scholar responsible for a course on modern South Asian history, and modern South Asian politics, will require a copy of this book--as soon as possible. -- Matthew J. Nelson
Milam is a retired American diplomat who served as his country's ambassador to Bangladesh (1990 to 1993) and Pakistan (1998 to 2001). Much of that first-hand experience informs the interpretation presented in Bangladesh and Pakistan, as well as the author's concern for the people of two countries that were once one. Milam knows from experience the disaster the civil and military leaders of both countries have wrought on their people and he does not mince words. * Dawn *
When partisan and contested versions of events still continue to be debated, the value of William B. Milam's contributions are in the insights he derived from his having lived through the events described while being an ambassador in the two countries. -- Kamal Hossain, noted Bangladeshi politician, statesman, and lawyer
The similarities between the two countries … tempted Milan to write what amounts to a comparative history of the two countries that once shared a common destiny. … It covers almost everything including the history of the two countries, their leadership, the structures of government, and the role of political parties, groups and elections. * The Muslim World Book Review *
