Origins, History and Social Structure in Brunei Darussalam

This book re-evaluates the early history and historiography of Brunei Darussalam, including the origins of the sultanate, genealogical foundations, and social structure. It draws on the seminal work of Donald E. Brown and addresses key issues such as status systems, titles, social stratification, Chinese sources, Malay oral and written histories, coronation rituals, and incorporation of minority populations. Contributions by leading scholars from Brunei and the wider Indonesian-Malay world explore ongoing debates in Austronesian and Southeast Asian studies.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 198 pages
Publication date: 01 August 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This comprehensive book delves into the intricate details of Brunei Darussalam's early history and historiography, exploring the origins of the sultanate, its genealogical foundations, and the structure and administration of Brunei society. Drawing upon the groundbreaking work of Donald E. Brown, whose seminal monograph on the sultanate was published in 1970, contributors to this volume shed light on various aspects of Brunei's past. Key topics addressed include status systems, titles, and social stratification, Chinese sources for studying Brunei, Malay oral and written histories and traditions, the symbolism, meanings, and origins of coronation rituals, previously unknown sources for researching Brunei history, and the processes of incorporating minority populations into the sultanate. Contributions by esteemed scholars from Brunei, Borneo, and the broader Indonesian-Malay world, both within Brunei Darussalam and internationally, further enrich the discussion by addressing central concerns raised by Brown and continuing to be debated in Austronesian and Southeast Asian studies.

A groundbreaking addition to the study of Brunei Darussalam's history, this book appeals to scholars of Southeast Asian history, Asian history, Colonial and Imperial history, and anthropology. It provides a deep and nuanced understanding of Brunei's past, offering valuable insights into the sociological, anthropological, and historical aspects of this fascinating region.

Weight: 420g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367561352