'In chronological breadth and originality, this book surpasses even Prof. Li's now classic Nguyen Cochinchina. This latest meticulous research provides not only for Vietnam, but for the region at large an unprecedented model of a large-scale, longitudinal thematic study. A Maritime Vietnam will only enhance Prof. Li's reputation as one of most assiduous and persuasive scholars ever to have worked in precolonial Southeast Asian history.' Victor Lieberman, University of Michigan