Over many centuries, and especially during the last century, Cambodia has experienced radical, even tumultuous changes in its political system and social order.

Chronicling this country's evolution from absolute monarchy in the pre-colonial era up to the semi-democracy of today, this dictionary focuses on the personalities, constitutional dynamics, and major economic developments of the recent Sihanouk, Lon Nol, Pol Pot and Hun Sen administrations.

Recognizing that considerable research remains to be done on Cambodia's political history and leaders, this reference work makes a large contribution to Cambodia and prominent Cambodians offering biographical details on the rulers, leaders, and opinion-makers from the time of Jayavarman II to Hun Sen. It also details key events and recent political developments and reveals unexpected continuities and discontinuities in elite composition and national ideological outlooks.

Some books are nice to have; others are a must. In the latter category add the recently published Historical Dictionary of Cambodia by Justin Corfield and Laura Summers. Its 560 pages are packed with a wealth of accessible information on most of the key players, both living and dead, who add color and drama to affairs Cambodian. -- Michael Hayes, Editor-In-Chief * Phnom Penh Post *
A special strength of the guide is its extensive biographical coverage, including kings, members of the royal family, ministers, politicians, military figures, colonial administrators, and others; up-to-date biographical information is often difficult to find in available resources. Highly recommended. * Choice Reviews *
...this book is an excellent academic work. All specialists on Cambodian affairs and all libraries of institutions, which offer courses on Cambodian are highly recommended to own a copy. It is worth more that US $90 indeed. * Journal Of Asian Review *
For those whose job description includes trying to figure out who's who in Cambodia—like journalists, diplomats, NGO chiefs, consultants, international bankers, academics, and parachutists wanna-bees—the book is a must....packed with a wealth of information. * The Gecko, Phnom Pehn Post *
Justin Corfield and Laura Summers have written an extremely useful new reference book, indispensable for scholars of Cambodia but also useful for scholars and students of the region who need to quickly access facts on Cambodian personalities and events. * Journal of Asian Studies *

Justin Corfield teaches history and international studies at Geelong Grammar School, Australia. Laura Summers is Professor, comparative politics and international relations at University of Hull, England.