Hello Historians.
I'm currently a Junior History Major at a great university, and am looking into doing an independent study course in the Spring. The two professors I plan to study under only somewhat fit the criteria of my research, so I was hoping one/some of you might have the knowledge to fill in the gaps!
I am planning to look into the transition from Japanese occupation to American occupation in the Pacific in the 1940's, as well as the process of America returning autonomy to these nations (and attempting to keep US hegemony in the process) over the following decade or so after initial occupation.
I know this is a broad subject and I may need to narrow it down a bit, and I think obtaining texts to read from experts would help narrow that focus down. Anything is welcome from Indonesia, to the Philippines, to Indo-China, to Korea.
I understand the rules state that we can't ask for help with homework, so I hope this doesn't fall under that branch. I am just looking for historical texts, whether primary or secondary sources. You're welcome to add in your thoughts on the subject too, as I love hearing from other minds on the subject, but ultimately my goal here is to obtain the tools to enrich my understanding through my own study.
Thank you so much in advance!
/u/drunkinmidget
Since you're a history major I'll give you some reading recommendations.
For broad reading material, I suggest: Anne Booth's Colonial Legacies: Economic and Social Development in East and Southeast Asia, an important book that looks at developmental aspects pre- and post-WW2, over the decolonisation period.
Further, check out Mark T. Berger's Decolonisation, Modernisation and Nation-Building: Political Development Theory and the Appeal of Communism in Southeast Asia, 1945-1975, Journal of Southeast Asian Studies, Vol. 34, No. 3 (Oct., 2003), pp. 421-448, and the references therein.
Otherwise you have to be more specific, e.g.: Logevall's Embers of War for Indochina, Elson's The Idea of Indonesia for Indonesia, Spence's The Search for Modern China for a longe duree reading on China.
Have fun!