The Many Wars of the Ganden Phodrang (1642–1950)

“This insightful volume by Ryosuke Kobayashi, Alice Travers, and their contributors challenges conventional perceptions and invites readers to explore the complexities of Tibetan history. The thorough analysis of historical documents illuminates Tibetan traditions within broader geopolitical frameworks. The authors skillfully weave diverse scholarly viewpoints, making this book essential for anyone interested in East Asian studies, cultural anthropology, or history. In today’s world, understanding cultural nuances is vital, and this volume stands out as an important contribution. It encourages reflection on the resilience and adaptation of Tibetan society, making it a must-read for both academics and general audiences.” * Tsering Shakya, The University of British Columbia, Canada *
“Modern Tibetan history is one of war. This empirical claim challenges the revisionist idea that Tibet only defended itself or retreated into Buddhism. Instead, this stellar group of scholars document how the Tibetan government actively participated in its own wars.” * Carole McGranahan, University of Colorado, USA *
“Through a chronological progression of detailed situational studies, the authors comprehensively demonstrate that Tibet had established military traditions and that its government, like polities across the globe from the seventeenth to the twentieth centuries, was engaged in complex territorial relationships that frequently erupted into armed conflicts of varying intensity and duration. While in no way diminishing the cherished religious traditions of Tibetan Buddhism and their worldwide impact over the past 125 years, this book dispels once and for all the myth that Tibet ever existed as an isolated land devoted only to peaceful contemplation of divine esoteric principles.” * Donald La Rocca, Curator Emeritus, The Metropolitan Museum of Art, USA *