The Encyclopedia of the Korean War - 9781851098491

The first edition of this three-volume reference was published in 2000, and of course the war hasn't changed since then, but there has been enough new scholarship and new information uncovered to merit a second edition. In his preface and introductory essay, editor Tucker (emeritus, Texas Christian University) provides an overview of the significance of the "forgotten war," emphasizing its importance to the shape of world politics today. Following, in two volumes, are 750 alphabetically-organized signed entries (from 125 contributors), 120 of which are new, and all of which have been updated or expanded. The third volume contains approximately 150 primary source documents. The set includes a chronology of the war (newly expanded with further detail on modern Korean history), a glossary, a bibliography, and many b&w maps and photos; indexing is included in each volume. Although the entries are cross referenced, some sort of thematic guide to the entries would enhance the next edition. Tucker's editorial collaborators were Paul G. Pierpaoli a scholar and writer with particular interest in the Korean War, two assistant editors, and a four-person editorial board. Annotation ©2010 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)