SOAS Research Online

Abstract

Burma's path to independence during the post-World War II period was a tangled web of differing political ideals and intense negotiations. This thesis delves into 1945-1948, spotlighting the myriad of ideologies that influenced Burma's trajectory, challenging the oversimplified narratives of anti-colonial nationalism and bringing to the fore the diverse views of the time. The initial chapters outline the growth and divergence of Burman nationalist groups, from the Communist Party of Burma (CPB), Aung San's leadership, to the Anti-Fascist People's Freedom League (AFPFL). Even with their shared socialist background, these groups diverged in their visions and tactics for liberation. Factors like internal conflicts and the overarching Cold War climate contributed to the side-lining of groups like the CPB. Aung San's leadership, detailed in Chapter 2, is presented with its complexities, touching on themes of anti-imperialism, international solidarity, and economic autonomy. Chapter 3 probes into how the AFPFL functioned as a nationalist front, articulating a distinct Pan-Asian non-aligned stance amidst global divisions. The narrative shifts in Chapter 4 and 5, which highlight the nuanced perspectives of ethnic minorities like the Shans, Chins, Kachins, and Karens. These chapters detail their relationships with the British, Burmans, and amongst themselves, as they maneuvered the growing Burman nationalist pressures, rooted in issues like territorial disputes and identity. Chapter 5 scrutinises the pivotal yet contested Panglong Conference negotiations through minority lenses. The crafting of 'counter histories' by marginalised groups in response to Burman domination further enriches this diverse narrative. In diving deep into this transformative period, the thesis reveals the intricate roots of modern Myanmar's continuous struggle for a shared identity. It emphasises the many voices that opposed the prevailing nationalist story, and by examining the dynamic between local and global influences, offers insights into the origins of today's ethnic and political challenges.