The Ryukyu Islands At A Glance

"The first full–length monograph on the history of the Ryukyu Islands in any Western language…a standard work."—Pacific Affairs Okinawa: The History of an Island People is the definitive book available in English on the history of Okinawa and the Ryukyu Islands, and an influential scholarly work in the field of Japanese studies. The histories of Japan, Okinawa and the entire Pacific region are crucially intertwined; therefore the review of this fascinating chain of islands is crucial to understanding all of East Asia. Few people can point to Okinawa on a map, yet this tiny island sitting between China and Japan is a hub for international affairs. The island was, and continues to be, one of the most crucial Asian nerve centers in all U.S. strategic defense. Ninety percent of all U.S. military forces in Japan are located on Okinawa, and more than 500,000 military personnel and their families have lived there. In Okinawa: The History of an Island People, noted Eastern affairs specialist George Kerr recounts the fascinating history of the island and its environs, from 1314 A.D. to the late twentieth century. First published in 1958, this edition features an introduction and appendix by Okinawa history scholar Mitsugu Sakihara, making this the most comprehensive resource on the intriguing island of Okinawa.

**Lowell Thomas Annual Travel Book Award Silver Medal Winner 2015** Travel to the most inspiring tropical islands on the planet! Everything you need is in this one convenient Okinawa travel guide--including a large pull-out map. Okinawa and the Ryukyu Islands is the first comprehensive travel guide to the 150 sub-tropical island chain that stretches across 600 miles from Japan to Taiwan. These are some of the most stunningly beautiful islands in the world! Trek up active volcanoes, soak in natural hot springs, enjoy pristine white sand beaches, and sample Okinawa's superb homegrown cuisine. Experienced author Robert Walker tells you how to get there, where to go, where to stay and what to do, including: Ferry schedules and flights Lodgings on all inhabited islands Best beaches and surf spots Hikes and nature walks Sights suitable for families with children Historical and cultural landmarks With over 200 color photographs and 40 maps, this book provides essential travel tips to help tourists avoid costly mistakes. It also includes a large fold-out map of Okinawa and the Ryukyu chain with insets for the major islands and cities.

"Those who viewed military families as representatives of their nation believed that they could project a friendlier, more humane side of the United States' campaign for dominance in the Cold War and were essential to the ideological battle against communism. In this untold story of Cold War diplomacy, Donna Alvah describes how these "unofficial ambassadors" cultivated relationships with both local people and military families in private homes, churches, schools, women's clubs, shops, and other places."--BOOK JACKET.