Challenges of Independence in SEA

Philippines

 Badly damaged during WW2

 U.S. demanded that the PH approve the Bell Trade Act
 Marcos Regime

Myanmar (Formerly Burma)

 Struggle between repressive military & pro-democratic forces

Malaysia & Singapore

 Struggle to put down Communist uprisings

 Seperation of Singapore from the Federation of Malaya

Indonesia

 Unsuccessful building of a democratic nation

 Attempts of coup
 Bribery and corruption were commonplace