The Militant - July 14, 2008 -- Letters

Vol. 72/No. 28 July 14, 2008

Letters

Burma or Myanmar?
I would appreciate some clarification in the use of the words “Burma” vs. “Myanmar” to describe that Asian country. In the past, the Militant used Burma, but now seems to use “Myanmar (formerly known as Burma).” A young Burmese refugee that I have met here insists that his country’s name is Burma.

Barbara Greenway
Frederick, Maryland

In reply—The British colonial rulers gave the country the name Burma in the 19th century. Independent governments from 1948 adopted the same name. In 1989 the military regime (see article in June 30 issue) changed the name of the country, and also of many cities and towns, to more accurately reflect their formal name in the Burmese language.

Myanmar is now the official name recognized by most governments and news media. Washington and London, however, refused to recognize the change and continue to call the country Burma.

Activists in the opposition to military rule in Myanmar point out that the regime had no popular mandate to change the English-language name of the country. Most, however, also say they have no principled objection to use of “Myanmar.” Militant articles have used Myanmar when referring to current events. When describing events prior to 1989, we use Burma.

The letters column is an open forum for all viewpoints on subjects of interest to working people. Please keep your letters brief. Where necessary they will be abridged. Please indicate if you prefer that your initials be used rather than your full name.

Front page (for this issue) | Home | Text-version home