Burma and the Jade Tree

Burma remains a controversial and secretive nation where immense beauty and history underlies its existence. The nation has and still suffers from oppression and insurgency by the USA and the Opium trade. A nation ravaged by war and corruption where most of its immense natural wealth has been squandered. It has survived by being isolated and living under military rule with the assistance of China. Its story is a tragedy unlike any other where tribes fight the central government in a hope of gaining independence armed by the West. The narrative follows the life of an Anglo-Burmese pilot through the retreat from Burma through Independence to the death of General Ne Win and the courageous struggle against SLORC for democracy led by Aung San Suu Kyi. It is a story of why the military came to power and drove many of her people into exile who learned to distrust everyone and everything, even themselves. The Chinese-trained generals have become rich by enslaving their people, forced labour and ruthless suppression of all opposition. Now is the time for change with the help of all people who can help without exploiting this damaged nation.