Thant Myint-U

About the Author

Thant Myint-U is a renowned historian, writer, and former United Nations official whose work bridges personal memoir and scholarly exploration of Southeast Asian history. Born in Rangoon to a prominent Burmese family, he grew up between Burma and the West, experiences that profoundly shape his narratives. With a doctorate from Harvard and a career in international diplomacy, including roles in New York and field missions, Thant Myint-U brings an insider's perspective to the turbulent story of his homeland. His acclaimed book, The River of Lost Footsteps: A Personal History of Burma, weaves family lore with the grand sweep of Burma's past, from ancient kingdoms to colonial legacies and modern struggles, offering readers a vivid, empathetic portrait of a nation in flux. Through his writing, he advocates for cultural preservation and thoughtful engagement with Myanmar's complex identity.