An overview of Burma's history and culture is discussed in this learning guide. The book begins with a geographical study of Asia's major land masses, archipelagoes, and the bodies of water that have made possible the movement of trade, religion, and culture from ancient to modern times. The early history of Burma's culture is discussed through temples, kings and kingdoms, religions, dynasties, and wars to the more current transformation of Burma from a colony to a nation. Concepts and teachings of Buddhism and Buddhism in daily life, along with the sangha and the Shwedagon Pagoda, are given. A section is devoted to the discussion of Burma after gaining independence and includes information about foreign relations, civilian to military rule, economic development and the military, the socialist republic, and the continuing struggle between the military successors of Ne Win and the pro-democracy movement. Each chapter provides multiple choice questions, fill in the blanks, creative writing problems, class discussion, and suggestions for further research. Chapters include: (1) "Land and People"; (2) "From Past to Present"; (3) "Religion"; (4) "Life and Culture"; and (5) "Burma after Independence." The book contains answer keys to chapter exercises and a 26-item bibliography. (BT)