Asian History: Most Popular Articles
These articles are the most popular over the last month.
Tibet and China
History of the interaction between China and Tibet, including the unclear relationship between the two over time. Was Tibet really part of China before 1949, or was it an independent country?
History of the interaction between China and Tibet, including the unclear relationship between the two over time. Was Tibet really part of China before 1949, or was it an independent country?
600 A.D. to 1900 A.D.
Pictoral history of the evolution of hairstyles in Japan. Noble women throughout the ages followed many fashions in the court of the Japanese Emperor. See some of the different hairdos here.
Pictoral history of the evolution of hairstyles in Japan. Noble women throughout the ages followed many fashions in the court of the Japanese Emperor. See some of the different hairdos here.
12 Battles That Changed Asia
Twelve little-known battles that changed the course of Asian history forever, from the Battle of Gaugamela in 331 B.C., to the Battle of Kohima in 1944.
Twelve little-known battles that changed the course of Asian history forever, from the Battle of Gaugamela in 331 B.C., to the Battle of Kohima in 1944.
Samurai swords
A display of samurai swords from Japan in London's Victoria and Albert Museum
A display of samurai swords from Japan in London's Victoria and Albert Museum
Biography of Genghis Khan
Biography of Genghis Khan, leader of Mongolia, who conquered most of Eurasia in the early thirteenth century.
Biography of Genghis Khan, leader of Mongolia, who conquered most of Eurasia in the early thirteenth century.
Profile of the Samurai
Profile of the samurai, medieval Japan's warrior class. Includes information about the history of the samurai, samurai swords, other samurai weapons, samurai armor and samurai culture.
Profile of the samurai, medieval Japan's warrior class. Includes information about the history of the samurai, samurai swords, other samurai weapons, samurai armor and samurai culture.
5 Legendary Warrior-Women
Throughout history, the field of war has been dominated by men. Nonetheless, in the face of extra-ordinary challenges, certain brave women have made their mark in battle. Here are five legendary women warriors of ancient times from across Asia.
Throughout history, the field of war has been dominated by men. Nonetheless, in the face of extra-ordinary challenges, certain brave women have made their mark in battle. Here are five legendary women warriors of ancient times from across Asia.
Tokugawa-era samurai
Photograph of Japanese samurai warrior, 1860s
Photograph of Japanese samurai warrior, 1860s
50 Asian Inventions
List of 50 amazing Asian inventions, from 10,000 BC to 2000 AD, along with descriptions of the Asian inventors who thought of them (where known).
List of 50 amazing Asian inventions, from 10,000 BC to 2000 AD, along with descriptions of the Asian inventors who thought of them (where known).
Biography of King Abdullah
Biography of Saudi King Abdullah, the sixth and current ruler of Saudi Arabia.
Biography of Saudi King Abdullah, the sixth and current ruler of Saudi Arabia.
Mongol Invasions of Japan
In 1274, the Mongol emperor of China, Kublai Khan, sent an armada to invade Japan. This invasion was repelled by the samurai, and a typhoon which sank the Mongol ships. The Mongols invaded again in 1281, but a second typhoon (called a kamikaze - "divine wind") once more destroyed their armada after seven weeks of fighting.
In 1274, the Mongol emperor of China, Kublai Khan, sent an armada to invade Japan. This invasion was repelled by the samurai, and a typhoon which sank the Mongol ships. The Mongols invaded again in 1281, but a second typhoon (called a kamikaze - "divine wind") once more destroyed their armada after seven weeks of fighting.
Samurai body armor
Samurai body armor in the museum in Tokyo, Japan
Samurai body armor in the museum in Tokyo, Japan
Rooftop fight
Two samurai fighting on the roof of Horyu Tower (Horyukaku), Japanese woodcut print c. 1830-1870
Two samurai fighting on the roof of Horyu Tower (Horyukaku), Japanese woodcut print c. 1830-1870
Modern samurai
Modern samurai, Tokyo, Japan 2003
Modern samurai, Tokyo, Japan 2003
3 Great Conquerors
They came from the steppes of Central Asia, striking fear into the hearts of the settled peoples of western Asia and Europe. Attila the Hun, Genghis Khan, and Tamerlane (Timur): The greatest conquerors Asia has ever known.
They came from the steppes of Central Asia, striking fear into the hearts of the settled peoples of western Asia and Europe. Attila the Hun, Genghis Khan, and Tamerlane (Timur): The greatest conquerors Asia has ever known.
Samurai mask
Photo of a samurai mask on display at the Asian Art Museum of San Francisco
Photo of a samurai mask on display at the Asian Art Museum of San Francisco
Samurai helmet
A samurai warrior's helmet from the collection of the Toyko Museum
A samurai warrior's helmet from the collection of the Toyko Museum
Profile of China
Profile of the People's Republic of China, including facts about China's people, Chinese geography, Chinese culture, and Chinese history.
Profile of the People's Republic of China, including facts about China's people, Chinese geography, Chinese culture, and Chinese history.
Examination of Miyamoto Musash
Woodcut print of a man examining famous samurai swordsman Miyamoto Musashi, by Kuniyoshi Utagawa (1798-1861).
Woodcut print of a man examining famous samurai swordsman Miyamoto Musashi, by Kuniyoshi Utagawa (1798-1861).
Timeline of the Vietnam War
Timeline of the Vietnam War (Second Indochina War). After World War II, France assumed that it would retake control of its colonial holdings in Southeast Asia. The Southeast Asian people had different ideas, however. After France's defeat by the Vietnamese in the First Indochina War, the U.S. became embroiled in a second war, which Americans call the Vietnam War.
Timeline of the Vietnam War (Second Indochina War). After World War II, France assumed that it would retake control of its colonial holdings in Southeast Asia. The Southeast Asian people had different ideas, however. After France's defeat by the Vietnamese in the First Indochina War, the U.S. became embroiled in a second war, which Americans call the Vietnam War.
Asia's 5 Worst Dictators
The five worst dictators in Asia, as measured by human rights abuses of their citizens. These abuses may include imprisonment and torture of dissidents, extra-judicial killings, denial of religious freedom, suppression of the free press / exclusively state-controlled media, and bloody crackdowns on anti-government protestors. Some leaders with bad human rights records, such as Pakistan's Pervez Musharraf, are excluded due to their election via democratic processes.
The five worst dictators in Asia, as measured by human rights abuses of their citizens. These abuses may include imprisonment and torture of dissidents, extra-judicial killings, denial of religious freedom, suppression of the free press / exclusively state-controlled media, and bloody crackdowns on anti-government protestors. Some leaders with bad human rights records, such as Pakistan's Pervez Musharraf, are excluded due to their election via democratic processes.
Profile of Mongolia
Profile of Mongolia, with information about its people, landscape, economy, and history.
Profile of Mongolia, with information about its people, landscape, economy, and history.
Biography of Than Shwe
Biography of Than Shwe, military dictator and head of the ruling junta in Burma (Myanmar), including his life story and a description of his rule.
Biography of Than Shwe, military dictator and head of the ruling junta in Burma (Myanmar), including his life story and a description of his rule.
Tank man
Jeff Widener's iconic photo "Tank Man," the shot of a solitary young man facing down a column of People's Liberation Army tanks during the Tiananmen Square Incident of 1989.
Jeff Widener's iconic photo "Tank Man," the shot of a solitary young man facing down a column of People's Liberation Army tanks during the Tiananmen Square Incident of 1989.
Jeff Widener
Interview and images from Jeff Widener, the photographer who took the iconic "Tank Man" photo during the 1989 Tiananmen Square Massacre in Beijing, China.
Interview and images from Jeff Widener, the photographer who took the iconic "Tank Man" photo during the 1989 Tiananmen Square Massacre in Beijing, China.
Samurai Attacking Village
Edo-period samurai warriors attacking a village in Japan.
Edo-period samurai warriors attacking a village in Japan.
Tangshan Earthquake
The Great Tangshan Earthquake of 1976 rattled much of northern China, and caused more casualties than any other quake in the twentieth century. It also shook the halls of power, fundamentally changing the people's view of the top Communist leadership.
The Great Tangshan Earthquake of 1976 rattled much of northern China, and caused more casualties than any other quake in the twentieth century. It also shook the halls of power, fundamentally changing the people's view of the top Communist leadership.
Two samurai
Woodcut print of samurai warriors Genkuro Soshitsune and Musashibo Benkei by Toyokuni Utagawa, c. 1804-1818.
Woodcut print of samurai warriors Genkuro Soshitsune and Musashibo Benkei by Toyokuni Utagawa, c. 1804-1818.
Joseon Dynasty
The Joseon dynasty ruled the Korea Peninsula from 1392 until the Japanese occupation of Korea in 1910. Joseon rulers were able to fend off a late 16th century Japanese invasion, as well as 17th century incursions by the Manchus and internal peasant rebellions. The Joseon era solidified the importance of Confucianism in Korean culture; saw the invention of "hangul," the Korean alphabet; witnessed the first Korean tea ceremony; and left lasting monuments such as the Gyungbukgung Palace.
The Joseon dynasty ruled the Korea Peninsula from 1392 until the Japanese occupation of Korea in 1910. Joseon rulers were able to fend off a late 16th century Japanese invasion, as well as 17th century incursions by the Manchus and internal peasant rebellions. The Joseon era solidified the importance of Confucianism in Korean culture; saw the invention of "hangul," the Korean alphabet; witnessed the first Korean tea ceremony; and left lasting monuments such as the Gyungbukgung Palace.
Samurai Board Mongol Ship
Japan's Samurai Warriors Board a Mongol Ship During the 1281 Invasion at Hakata Bay
Japan's Samurai Warriors Board a Mongol Ship During the 1281 Invasion at Hakata Bay
Two samurai fighting
Woodcut print of Japanese samurai Ichijo Jiro Tadanori and Notonokami Noritsune fighting 1810-1820
Woodcut print of Japanese samurai Ichijo Jiro Tadanori and Notonokami Noritsune fighting 1810-1820
Central Asia Timeline
Central Asia timeline, laying out the region's history from the Aryan invasion through the modern day.
Central Asia timeline, laying out the region's history from the Aryan invasion through the modern day.
Aung San Suu Kyi Profile
Biography of Aung San Suu Kyi, the Nobel Peace Prize Laureate and opposition leader of Burma (Myanmar), who was jailed by the military junta after winning a democratic election in 1990 by an overwhelming majority.
Biography of Aung San Suu Kyi, the Nobel Peace Prize Laureate and opposition leader of Burma (Myanmar), who was jailed by the military junta after winning a democratic election in 1990 by an overwhelming majority.
Actors as Samurai
Actors Bando Mitsugoro and Bando Minosuke portraying samurai warriors, woodcut print by Toyokuni Utagawa, c. 1777-1835.
Actors Bando Mitsugoro and Bando Minosuke portraying samurai warriors, woodcut print by Toyokuni Utagawa, c. 1777-1835.
Samurai Fight in House
A samurai warrior and a homeowner prepare to fight inside the house, while a woman is disturbed from her koto playing.
A samurai warrior and a homeowner prepare to fight inside the house, while a woman is disturbed from her koto playing.
Tomoe Gozen
Tomoe Gozen, a female samurai warrior from Japan
Tomoe Gozen, a female samurai warrior from Japan
Colonial Vietnam
Street scene in colonial Saigon, French Indochina (Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam).
Street scene in colonial Saigon, French Indochina (Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam).
Students vs PLA
Student protestors, including one girl with a camera, struggle with soldiers from the Chinese Army, the PLA. Tiananmen Square, 1989.
Student protestors, including one girl with a camera, struggle with soldiers from the Chinese Army, the PLA. Tiananmen Square, 1989.
Profile of Afghanistan
Profile of Afghanistan, including facts about its geography, government, culture, people, and history.
Profile of Afghanistan, including facts about its geography, government, culture, people, and history.
The Battle of Talas
The little-known but pivotal Battle of Talas River in 751 A.D. pitted the expanding Arab Moslem army against the forces of the Tang Dynasty Chinese Empire. China was defeated, which resulted in Central Asia becoming part of the Islamic world, and the diffusion of paper-making technology to the West.
The little-known but pivotal Battle of Talas River in 751 A.D. pitted the expanding Arab Moslem army against the forces of the Tang Dynasty Chinese Empire. China was defeated, which resulted in Central Asia becoming part of the Islamic world, and the diffusion of paper-making technology to the West.
Student in Tiananmen
A student gets comfort and a cigarette, the Tiananmen Square Massacre, Beijing China ( 1989 ).
A student gets comfort and a cigarette, the Tiananmen Square Massacre, Beijing China ( 1989 ).
Profile of East Timor
Profile of East Timor(Timor-Leste), including information on its people, culture, and history. Covers the period from early settlement through Portuguese colonization, the Indonesian occupation, and independence in 2002.
Profile of East Timor(Timor-Leste), including information on its people, culture, and history. Covers the period from early settlement through Portuguese colonization, the Indonesian occupation, and independence in 2002.
Captured PLA Tank
Chinese student protestors swarm over a captured PLA tank, Tiananmen Square Protests, Beijing, China (1989).
Chinese student protestors swarm over a captured PLA tank, Tiananmen Square Protests, Beijing, China (1989).
Ho Chi Minh Trail
The Ho Chi Minh Trail, supply route for Communist Forces during the Vietnam War.
The Ho Chi Minh Trail, supply route for Communist Forces during the Vietnam War.
Korean War Timeline
Timeline of the Korean War, including information about events that led up to "The Forgotten War."
Timeline of the Korean War, including information about events that led up to "The Forgotten War."
Vets Protest Vietnam
Veterans march against the Vietnam War, Washington D.C. (1967)
Veterans march against the Vietnam War, Washington D.C. (1967)
Burning trucks, Tiananmen
Vehicles burn in Beijing, China, during the Tiananmen Square Protests of 1989. Demonstrating university students were crushed by the People's Liberation Army, which used tanks, bayonets and live ammunition on the crowds of protestors. 200 - 3,000 protestors were killed.
Vehicles burn in Beijing, China, during the Tiananmen Square Protests of 1989. Demonstrating university students were crushed by the People's Liberation Army, which used tanks, bayonets and live ammunition on the crowds of protestors. 200 - 3,000 protestors were killed.
PLA moves in to Tiananmen
The People's Liberation Army moves into Tiananmen Square, June 1989. The PLA cracked down on university student protestors, killing between 200 and 3000 peaceful demonstrators in Beijing, China.
The People's Liberation Army moves into Tiananmen Square, June 1989. The PLA cracked down on university student protestors, killing between 200 and 3000 peaceful demonstrators in Beijing, China.
Ancient Asian Inventions
Once the most basic inventions had been created in prehistoric times - food, transport, clothing, alcohol - humanity was free to create more luxurious goods. In ancient times, Asian inventors came up with such fripperies as silk, soap, glass, ink, parasols, and kites. Some inventions of a more serious nature also appeared at this time: writing, irrigation, and map-making, for example.
Once the most basic inventions had been created in prehistoric times - food, transport, clothing, alcohol - humanity was free to create more luxurious goods. In ancient times, Asian inventors came up with such fripperies as silk, soap, glass, ink, parasols, and kites. Some inventions of a more serious nature also appeared at this time: writing, irrigation, and map-making, for example.
Johnson and Van Thieu
President Nguyen Van Thieu (South Vietnam) and President Lyndon Johnson in 1968
President Nguyen Van Thieu (South Vietnam) and President Lyndon Johnson in 1968
Suenaga Scroll
Scroll depicting the Mongol invasions of Japan in 1274 and 1281, commissioned by Samurai Takezaki Suenaga
Scroll depicting the Mongol invasions of Japan in 1274 and 1281, commissioned by Samurai Takezaki Suenaga
Profile of Japan
Japan - A profile of Japan, including information about its history, culture, people, and land.
Japan - A profile of Japan, including information about its history, culture, people, and land.
Biography of Tamerlane
Biography of Tamerlane, more properly known as Timur, the Central Asian conqueror. His empire stretched from Turkey to the border of Tibet, and from southern Russia to Oman.
Biography of Tamerlane, more properly known as Timur, the Central Asian conqueror. His empire stretched from Turkey to the border of Tibet, and from southern Russia to Oman.
Dong Ha Patrol
Vietnam War Dong Ha American soldiers on patrol in swamp 1966
Vietnam War Dong Ha American soldiers on patrol in swamp 1966
Profile of Burma (Myanmar)
Profile of Burma, Southeast Asia, (also called "Myanmar"), including information about the country's government, population, geography, and economy. Also covers briefly the country's history from the Paleolithic Era to the troubles of the present day.
Profile of Burma, Southeast Asia, (also called "Myanmar"), including information about the country's government, population, geography, and economy. Also covers briefly the country's history from the Paleolithic Era to the troubles of the present day.
Invention of Gunpowder
Describes the invention of gunpowder by Tang Dynasty Chinese alchemists, around 850 A.D.
Describes the invention of gunpowder by Tang Dynasty Chinese alchemists, around 850 A.D.
FFL in Vietnam
French Foreign Legion Soldier Patrolling Vietnam in Red River Delta (1954)
French Foreign Legion Soldier Patrolling Vietnam in Red River Delta (1954)
Uzbekistan
Profile of Uzbekistan, including information about the country's geography, climate, economy, political system, population, and history.
Profile of Uzbekistan, including information about the country's geography, climate, economy, political system, population, and history.
Samurai Print
Ronin (Masterless Samurai) Fending Off Arrows 1869
Ronin (Masterless Samurai) Fending Off Arrows 1869
Medieval Asian Inventions
Medieval Asia saw the invention of products both luxurious (porcelain, toilet paper, perfume, chess) and intensely practical (the flamethrower, canal locks, and hypodermic needles).
Medieval Asia saw the invention of products both luxurious (porcelain, toilet paper, perfume, chess) and intensely practical (the flamethrower, canal locks, and hypodermic needles).
Biography of Hu Jintao
Biography of Chinese Premiere Hu Jintao, from his early childhood through his tenure as head of the People's Republic of China.
Biography of Chinese Premiere Hu Jintao, from his early childhood through his tenure as head of the People's Republic of China.
Escape from Nha Trang
South Vietnamese Fight to Escape fall of Nha Trang, March of 1975
South Vietnamese Fight to Escape fall of Nha Trang, March of 1975
Goddess of Democracy
Art students put finishing touches on their "Goddess of Democracy" statue, Tiananmen Square, Beijing, China. 1989.
Art students put finishing touches on their "Goddess of Democracy" statue, Tiananmen Square, Beijing, China. 1989.
Injured US POW
An injured U.S. POW gets treatment after the POW exchange at Munsan-ni, August 5, 1953.
An injured U.S. POW gets treatment after the POW exchange at Munsan-ni, August 5, 1953.
Indian and US Paratroopers
Paratroopers from India and the U.S. exchange smiles and hats on the way to Korea, September 28, 1953.
Paratroopers from India and the U.S. exchange smiles and hats on the way to Korea, September 28, 1953.
Ngo Dinh Diem
Ngo Dinh Diem, President of South Vietnam, is greeted by U.S. President Eisenhower
Ngo Dinh Diem, President of South Vietnam, is greeted by U.S. President Eisenhower
Battle of Geok-Tepe
In the late 1870s and early 1880s, Russia conquered Central Asia once and for all. Their most formidable foe was the Akhal Teke tribe of Turkmen (then called Turcomen). Two battles at Geok-tepe, in 1879 and 1881, were key to the Russian colonization of Central Asia.
In the late 1870s and early 1880s, Russia conquered Central Asia once and for all. Their most formidable foe was the Akhal Teke tribe of Turkmen (then called Turcomen). Two battles at Geok-tepe, in 1879 and 1881, were key to the Russian colonization of Central Asia.
Biography of Kim Jong-il
A brief description of the life and times of Kim Jong-il, North Korea's eccentric communist dictator and "Dear Leader."
A brief description of the life and times of Kim Jong-il, North Korea's eccentric communist dictator and "Dear Leader."
Vietnam wounded
Vietnam War wounded arrive at Andrews Air Force Base 1968
Vietnam War wounded arrive at Andrews Air Force Base 1968
Wounded medivac
Wounded U.S. soldiers get airlifted out of Korea, July 28, 1950.
Wounded U.S. soldiers get airlifted out of Korea, July 28, 1950.
Current Emperor of Japan
The current Emperor of Japan, Akihito, has little political power. So what does he actually do? Description of the official functions and daily life of the current Emperor of Japan.
The current Emperor of Japan, Akihito, has little political power. So what does he actually do? Description of the official functions and daily life of the current Emperor of Japan.
Japanese Surrender
Japanese surrender to the Allied forces in 1945 aboard the USS Missouri
Japanese surrender to the Allied forces in 1945 aboard the USS Missouri
NK POWs at Panmunjom
Exchange of wounded North Korean POWs at Panmunjom, September 8, 1953.
Exchange of wounded North Korean POWs at Panmunjom, September 8, 1953.
Classical Asian Inventions
Asian inventions of the classical era, 1000 B.C. to 500 A.D., include a few luxury items such as mirrors and ice cream. However, most of the notable creations are more practical in bent, things like crossbows, paper, the wheelbarrow, and horse tack.
Asian inventions of the classical era, 1000 B.C. to 500 A.D., include a few luxury items such as mirrors and ice cream. However, most of the notable creations are more practical in bent, things like crossbows, paper, the wheelbarrow, and horse tack.
Viet Cong Bombing
Bombing in Saigon, Vietnam by Viet Cong (1964)
Bombing in Saigon, Vietnam by Viet Cong (1964)
Wonsan church dump bombed
A church in Wonsan that was used as an ammunition dump by the Communist forces is bombed, March of 1951.
A church in Wonsan that was used as an ammunition dump by the Communist forces is bombed, March of 1951.
Marilyn Monroe in Korea
Marilyn Monroe visits the troops in Korea after the Armistice, February 17, 1954.
Marilyn Monroe visits the troops in Korea after the Armistice, February 17, 1954.
Angry POW yells at major
An angry Communist POW berates a U.S. major during POW exchange at Panmunjom, Sept. 8, 1953. Korean War
An angry Communist POW berates a U.S. major during POW exchange at Panmunjom, Sept. 8, 1953. Korean War
Profile of Thailand
Profile of the Kingdom of Thailand, the heart of Southeast Asia, including information about the country's government, population, geography, and economy. Also covers briefly the country's history from the Paleolithic Era to the present day.
Profile of the Kingdom of Thailand, the heart of Southeast Asia, including information about the country's government, population, geography, and economy. Also covers briefly the country's history from the Paleolithic Era to the present day.
Khan
Glossary definition of the term "khan" from your About.com Guide to Asian History.
Glossary definition of the term "khan" from your About.com Guide to Asian History.
McNamara Westmoreland
Sec. McNamara and Gen. Westmoreland during the Vietnam War
Sec. McNamara and Gen. Westmoreland during the Vietnam War
Central Asia 1900-1925
Timeline of Central Asian history in the early twentieth century.
Timeline of Central Asian history in the early twentieth century.
Invention of the Seismoscope
Describes the invention of the first seismoscope for detecting earthquakes, which was invented by Zhang Heng in China in the second century A.D.
Describes the invention of the first seismoscope for detecting earthquakes, which was invented by Zhang Heng in China in the second century A.D.
Early Modern/Modern Inventions
Between 1100 and 2000 A.D., Asian nations produced an astonishing array of inventions. Beginning with the magnetic compass, and moving on through the toothbrush, the multi-function bidet, and the PlayStation game console, modern Asian inventions span the continent and the realm of possible functions.
Between 1100 and 2000 A.D., Asian nations produced an astonishing array of inventions. Beginning with the magnetic compass, and moving on through the toothbrush, the multi-function bidet, and the PlayStation game console, modern Asian inventions span the continent and the realm of possible functions.
Fall of Taejon
Last-ditch defense before the Fall of Taejon, South Korea, to North Korean forces. July 21, 1950.
Last-ditch defense before the Fall of Taejon, South Korea, to North Korean forces. July 21, 1950.
Truce and Joy
U.S. airman reacts to news that a truce has been declared, and the Korean War is (unofficially) over. July, 1953.
U.S. airman reacts to news that a truce has been declared, and the Korean War is (unofficially) over. July, 1953.
Frostbite victims
Huddle of frostbite casualties waits for medivac after Battle at Chosin Reservoir, December of 1950.
Huddle of frostbite casualties waits for medivac after Battle at Chosin Reservoir, December of 1950.
Bombing North Korea
A UN bomber makes a run over North Korea, February of 1951.
A UN bomber makes a run over North Korea, February of 1951.
Iran Timeline
Timeline of Iranian (Persian) history from the age of Zarathustra, the founder of Zoroastrianism, through the death of the Ayatollah Khomeini.
Timeline of Iranian (Persian) history from the age of Zarathustra, the founder of Zoroastrianism, through the death of the Ayatollah Khomeini.
Kim Pak Soon Baseball
Young Kim Pak Soon learns about baseball fundamentals from U.S. soldier James W. Black, March, 1951.
Young Kim Pak Soon learns about baseball fundamentals from U.S. soldier James W. Black, March, 1951.
Haktong-ni Grief
A soldier collapses with grief after his buddy dies, and is comforted, at Haktong-ni. August 28, 1950.
A soldier collapses with grief after his buddy dies, and is comforted, at Haktong-ni. August 28, 1950.
Bazooka team
A South Korean bazooka team fires near Osan, South Korea. July 5, 1950.
A South Korean bazooka team fires near Osan, South Korea. July 5, 1950.
Busan POW Camp
North Korean and Chinese POWs at a UN prisoner-of-war camp in Busan, South Korea. April, 1951.
North Korean and Chinese POWs at a UN prisoner-of-war camp in Busan, South Korea. April, 1951.
Kotori Marines Chaplain
An injured chaplain prays over the bodies of dead U.S. Marines at Kotori, December 3, 1950.
An injured chaplain prays over the bodies of dead U.S. Marines at Kotori, December 3, 1950.
Gunners Huddle
A group of gunners from the 17th Bomb Wing gets ready to go, Korean War, September, 1952.
A group of gunners from the 17th Bomb Wing gets ready to go, Korean War, September, 1952.
POW exchange 1953
POW exchange in April, 1953. Sick and wounded POWs were traded by the two opposing forces.
POW exchange in April, 1953. Sick and wounded POWs were traded by the two opposing forces.
Sister and brother
Two concerned Korean children stand in front of a tank in Haeng-ju, Korea during the Korean War. June 9, 1951.
Two concerned Korean children stand in front of a tank in Haeng-ju, Korea during the Korean War. June 9, 1951.
Timeline of Chinese History
Timeline of Chinese History from Peking Man through the modern day.
Timeline of Chinese History from Peking Man through the modern day.
Police search refugees
Police search fearful refugees fleeing Pohang, looking for North Korean spies who infiltrated Southern lines by impersonating civilians. August of 1950.
Police search fearful refugees fleeing Pohang, looking for North Korean spies who infiltrated Southern lines by impersonating civilians. August of 1950.
POWs exercise
North Korean POWs exercise at a prisoner of war camp, August 10, 1950.
North Korean POWs exercise at a prisoner of war camp, August 10, 1950.
Kum River Bridge Bombed
UN forces blow up the bridge over the Kum River near Taejon, South Korea, in an attempt to slow North Korean advances. August 6, 1950.
UN forces blow up the bridge over the Kum River near Taejon, South Korea, in an attempt to slow North Korean advances. August 6, 1950.
Kaesong Scenery
Serene setting of peace talks; Kaesong, truce talks site in summer of 1951.
Serene setting of peace talks; Kaesong, truce talks site in summer of 1951.
Damaged train station
Bomb damage to a train station in North Korea, November 9, 1950.
Bomb damage to a train station in North Korea, November 9, 1950.
Elizabeth Gardener
WASP pilot Elizabeth Gardener during the Korean War.
WASP pilot Elizabeth Gardener during the Korean War.
Officers at Kaesong
Korean officers at the Kaesong Peace Talks, Summer of 1951
Korean officers at the Kaesong Peace Talks, Summer of 1951
Paratroopers queue in plane
Paratroopers queue up at the door before jumping, Korean War, September of 1951.
Paratroopers queue up at the door before jumping, Korean War, September of 1951.
Pohang refugee stream
Refugees stream out of Pohang, on the east coast of South Korea, in the face of North Korean advances. August 12, 1950.
Refugees stream out of Pohang, on the east coast of South Korea, in the face of North Korean advances. August 12, 1950.
UN Paratrooper drop
UN paratrooper drop, October 19, 1951.
UN paratrooper drop, October 19, 1951.
Paratroopers on ground
UN paratroopers get ready to deploy, July 2, 1953.
UN paratroopers get ready to deploy, July 2, 1953.
Scavengers in Seoul
Women and children in Seoul scavenge through the wreckage looking for wood to cook and heat their homes, November 1, 1950.
Women and children in Seoul scavenge through the wreckage looking for wood to cook and heat their homes, November 1, 1950.
Pyongyang railyard
Bomb damage to the railyard at Pyongyang, North Korea. October 25, 1950.
Bomb damage to the railyard at Pyongyang, North Korea. October 25, 1950.
Southern comfort
South Korean soldiers try to comfort their wounded comrades, July 28, 1950.
South Korean soldiers try to comfort their wounded comrades, July 28, 1950.
Medal of Honor Truman
President Truman in the Oval Office with three Korean War Medal of Honor recipients, May 10, 1951.
President Truman in the Oval Office with three Korean War Medal of Honor recipients, May 10, 1951.
Napalm drop village
Napalm drop on a village in North Korea, January, 1951.
Napalm drop on a village in North Korea, January, 1951.
Napalm on Masen-ni
A U.S. plane drops napalm on an ammunition depot in the North Korean village of Masen-ni, July 11, 1951.
A U.S. plane drops napalm on an ammunition depot in the North Korean village of Masen-ni, July 11, 1951.
Cold Winter of 1950
U.S. military patrols in Korea battle bitter cold, December of 1950.
U.S. military patrols in Korea battle bitter cold, December of 1950.
B-26 Repairs
Mechanics struggle to repair a B-26 bomber during a snowstorm, Korea (1952)
Mechanics struggle to repair a B-26 bomber during a snowstorm, Korea (1952)
Central Asia 200 BC to 600 AD
Timeline of Central Asia from 200 B.C. to 600 A.D.
Timeline of Central Asia from 200 B.C. to 600 A.D.
President Rhee returns
South Korean President Syngman Rhee (Yi Seungman) returns to Seoul after the North Koreans are driven out, September 29, 1950. General Douglas MacArthur is seated on the left.
South Korean President Syngman Rhee (Yi Seungman) returns to Seoul after the North Koreans are driven out, September 29, 1950. General Douglas MacArthur is seated on the left.
Prehistoric inventions
Between 10,000 and 3,500 B.C., the earliest human cultures in Asia created some of the most basic inventions ... Inventions that are still important today! They domesticated many of the plants and animals that we rely upon for food or companionship: wheat, peas, sheep, cats, cattle, chickens, and rice. They also invented pottery, woven cloth, alcohol, and the wheel. It's hard to imagine life without these key early inventions!
Between 10,000 and 3,500 B.C., the earliest human cultures in Asia created some of the most basic inventions ... Inventions that are still important today! They domesticated many of the plants and animals that we rely upon for food or companionship: wheat, peas, sheep, cats, cattle, chickens, and rice. They also invented pottery, woven cloth, alcohol, and the wheel. It's hard to imagine life without these key early inventions!
Naval Bombardment
Naval bombardment during the Korean War, 1950.
Naval bombardment during the Korean War, 1950.
Crying Child at Incheon
A lone Korean child cries during the UN invasion of Incheon in 1950.
A lone Korean child cries during the UN invasion of Incheon in 1950.
Bombed out Chosin Plant
Korean War bomb damage to the Chosin Power Plant, which supplied hydroelectric power to North Korea and Manchuria, July 11, 1952.
Korean War bomb damage to the Chosin Power Plant, which supplied hydroelectric power to North Korea and Manchuria, July 11, 1952.
Farsi
Glossary definition of Farsi, from your About.com Guide to Asian History.
Glossary definition of Farsi, from your About.com Guide to Asian History.
Ancient Central Asia
Timeline of Ancient Central Asian history, from 1500 B.C. to 200 B.C.
Timeline of Ancient Central Asian history, from 1500 B.C. to 200 B.C.
Biography of Islam Karimov
Profile of Islam Karimov, the Soviet-era premiere of the Uzbek Soviet Socialist Republic, and the founding president of the independent Republic of Uzbekistan.
Profile of Islam Karimov, the Soviet-era premiere of the Uzbek Soviet Socialist Republic, and the founding president of the independent Republic of Uzbekistan.
Chaikhana
Glossary definition of the term "chaikhana" from your About.com Guide to Asian History.
Glossary definition of the term "chaikhana" from your About.com Guide to Asian History.
Death and Destruction 1952
Bloody riots at the UN's prison camp on Koje-do (Koje Island), enormous bombing sorties against Pyongyang, and battles fought inch-by-inch up the wooded hills and ridges of Korea: the last full year of the Korean War was exceptionally grim.
Bloody riots at the UN's prison camp on Koje-do (Koje Island), enormous bombing sorties against Pyongyang, and battles fought inch-by-inch up the wooded hills and ridges of Korea: the last full year of the Korean War was exceptionally grim.
Stand or Die
Just about one month after the North Korean invasion, the South Korean and United Nations forces found themselves dug in at the Busan Perimeter. With their backs to the sea, the southern forces desperately held their ground against the North Korean army. Meanwhile, desperate refugees flooded south and east in front of the invaders.
Just about one month after the North Korean invasion, the South Korean and United Nations forces found themselves dug in at the Busan Perimeter. With their backs to the sea, the southern forces desperately held their ground against the North Korean army. Meanwhile, desperate refugees flooded south and east in front of the invaders.
Vietnam War Timeline 1963-1964
The Vietnam War took a turn for the worse in 1963-1964. Both President Kennedy and South Vietnam's President Diem were assassinated, and a string of Viet Cong victories turned the war's momentum decidedly in the communist force's favor. The United States was not fully committed to fighting the war, but refused to walk away from it, either.
The Vietnam War took a turn for the worse in 1963-1964. Both President Kennedy and South Vietnam's President Diem were assassinated, and a string of Viet Cong victories turned the war's momentum decidedly in the communist force's favor. The United States was not fully committed to fighting the war, but refused to walk away from it, either.
Gulf of Tonkin 1964 to 1965
Vietnam War Timeline - The Gulf of Tonkin Incident and Escalation: In 1964, the United States government was looking for a pretext to escalate U.S. involvement in the Vietnam War. A U.S. destroyer, the U.S.S. Maddox, was gathering intelligence off the North Vietnamese coast when it was fired upon (no damage done). The Pentagon reported the incident as an unprovoked attack, and fabricated a second attack two days later. In response, Congress authorized the deployment of combat troops to Vietnam.
Vietnam War Timeline - The Gulf of Tonkin Incident and Escalation: In 1964, the United States government was looking for a pretext to escalate U.S. involvement in the Vietnam War. A U.S. destroyer, the U.S.S. Maddox, was gathering intelligence off the North Vietnamese coast when it was fired upon (no damage done). The Pentagon reported the incident as an unprovoked attack, and fabricated a second attack two days later. In response, Congress authorized the deployment of combat troops to Vietnam.
Central Asia 600-900 A.D.
Timeline of Central Asian history from 600 to 900 A.D., when Chinese, Arab, Turkic, Persian, and Tibetan empires clashed for control of the region.
Timeline of Central Asian history from 600 to 900 A.D., when Chinese, Arab, Turkic, Persian, and Tibetan empires clashed for control of the region.
Timeline China 1500-250 B.C.
Timeline of early Chinese History from 1500 to 250 B.C.
Timeline of early Chinese History from 1500 to 250 B.C.
Timeline of China 1115-1550 AD
Timeline of Chinese History in the era of the Mongols and the Ming, from 1115 to 1550 A.D.
Timeline of Chinese History in the era of the Mongols and the Ming, from 1115 to 1550 A.D.
Bedouin
Glossary definition of the term "bedouin" from your About.com Guide to Asian History.
Glossary definition of the term "bedouin" from your About.com Guide to Asian History.
Heian
Glossary definition of the term "Heian" from your About.com Guide to Asian History.
Glossary definition of the term "Heian" from your About.com Guide to Asian History.
Timeline of Ancient Iran
Timeline of Ancient Iranian History
Timeline of Ancient Iranian History
Koguryeo
Glossary definition of the term "Koguryeo" from your About.com Guide to Asian History.
Glossary definition of the term "Koguryeo" from your About.com Guide to Asian History.
Lama
Glossary definition of the term "lama" from your About.com Guide to Asian History.
Glossary definition of the term "lama" from your About.com Guide to Asian History.
Manchuria
Glossary definition of the term "Manchuria" from your About.com Guide to Asian History.
Glossary definition of the term "Manchuria" from your About.com Guide to Asian History.
Vietnam War Begins, 1959-1962
The Vietnam War (Second Indochina War) began in 1959, with the United States and its ally, the corrupt South Vietnamese President Diem, pitted against Ho Chi Minh's North Vietnamese Communist forces.
The Vietnam War (Second Indochina War) began in 1959, with the United States and its ally, the corrupt South Vietnamese President Diem, pitted against Ho Chi Minh's North Vietnamese Communist forces.
Timeline of China 1550-1912 AD
Timeline of Chinese History from the late Ming Dynasty to the fall of the Last Qing Emperor in 1912.
Timeline of Chinese History from the late Ming Dynasty to the fall of the Last Qing Emperor in 1912.
Assassins
Glossary definition of the term "Assassins" from your About.com Guide to Asian History.
Glossary definition of the term "Assassins" from your About.com Guide to Asian History.
Byzantium
Glossary definition of the term "Byzantium" from your About.com Guide to Asian History.
Glossary definition of the term "Byzantium" from your About.com Guide to Asian History.
Hazara
Glossary definition of the term "Hazara" from your About.com Guide to Asian History.
Glossary definition of the term "Hazara" from your About.com Guide to Asian History.
Khmer
Glossary definition of the term "Khmer" from your About.com Guide to Asian History.
Glossary definition of the term "Khmer" from your About.com Guide to Asian History.
Kyrgyz
Glossary definition of the term "Kyrgyz" from your About.com Guide to Asian History.
Glossary definition of the term "Kyrgyz" from your About.com Guide to Asian History.
Central Asia 900-1300
Timeline of early medieval Central Asian history, 900-1300 A.D.
Timeline of early medieval Central Asian history, 900-1300 A.D.
Central Asia 1300-1510 A.D.
Timeline of Central Asian History in the time of Timur (Tamerlane) and his descendants, from 1300 to 1510 A.D.
Timeline of Central Asian History in the time of Timur (Tamerlane) and his descendants, from 1300 to 1510 A.D.
Ainu
Glossary definition of the term "Ainu" from your About.com Guide to Asian History.
Glossary definition of the term "Ainu" from your About.com Guide to Asian History.