This book is not meant to be a general history of Tibet, nor a Tibetan adventureor folklore monograph. It focuses on the attempts being made today to solve the riddles and confusion surrounding Tibet, including contemplations, reflections, in-depth discussions, and plain narrations in a language of honesty and sincerity. It also expresses a feeling of fraternity towards Tibetan compatriots and a longing for a beautiful tomorrow for Tibet. Careful readers may be inspired and moved by its content.

Preface

Stories from

 The Marriage ofSongtsen Gampo and Princess Wencheng

 The Journey of Monk Xuanzang and Introduction of Buddhism

 Whirlwind of the Islamic Warriors

Folktales and Myths

 The Creation of the World

 Where Did I Come From ?

 Today's Answers to How Mankind Originated

Lost Glory, the Tubo Kingdom

 Ancient Names, Tubo and Tibet

 Myths of the YarlungValley

 Songtsen Gampo and His Children

Tibetan Buddhism

 The Turbulent History of Tibetan Buddhism

 Major Sects

 Dalai and Panchen Lamas

Lies and Plunder

 The British Empire's First Attempt on Tibet

 Britain's "Civilizing Operation" im Tibet

 The Simla Conference and the Mirage of "Independent Tibet"

Artistic Glories

 Tibetan Literature--Epic of King Gesar

 Painting -- Thangka

 Tibetan Song, Dance, and Opera

Past, Present ao.d Future

 The Dark Past: A Society of Theocratic Feudal Serfdom

 Today: Rapid Changes and Progress

 A Dazzling Future

Postscript