ABSTRACT
This chapter explores the complexities of nation in Burma and the central problem of military rule for over four decades of violence committed by the regime on the citizens of Burma. The term Burman is usually used in English for the majority ethnic group and Burmese for language, citizenship or other national terms. Burma's plentiful natural and human resources are sufficient to sustain the present population of 54 million and future generations while maintaining its diverse ecological milieu. Burma's isolation is due to violent actions committed by the regime in 1988. About 3,000 citizens taking part in countrywide peaceful demonstrations were killed by the military which seized control, suspended the constitution and declared martial law. The International Monetary Fund's report on Burma estimated the per capita gross domestic product (GDP) of Burma in 2005 to be US$ 170, less than half of the per capita GDP of the poorest countries in the region.
