Islam and Nation presents a fascinating study of the genesis, growth, and decline of a nationalist movement. Drawing on hundreds of interviews with nationalist leaders, activists, and guerillas, Edward Aspinall reveals how, in the space of a generation, the Free Aceh Movement went from quixotic fantasy to guerilla army, leading to a bitter conflict in which thousands perished. And by exploring the complex relationship between Islam and nationalists, he explains how a society famed for its Islamic piety gave rise to a guerilla movement that ended up rejecting the Islamic goals of its forebears.

Islam and Nation is a tour de force in the study of nationalist politics. It is of great interest to readers concerned about Southeast Asia, Islamic politics, ethnic conflict, and nationalism everywhere.