"The world knows little of this vast landscape of steaming jungles, icwe-capped mountains and hundreds of tribes that occupies the western half of New Guinea. For many years its very remoteness and the tight control excerised by Indonesian authorities have prevented a proper understanding of the rich cultures and incredible biodiversity it contains. But gradually the jungles are giving up some of their secrets - of people trying to determine their own destiny, protect their heritage and environment and long for the day they can call themselves free. Here, for the first time, is an overview of the extraordinary story of West Papua - one of the great untold tales of the Asia-Pacific region. From its pre-European history, to the Dutch colonial period, the Indonesian takeover and controversial UN 'Act of Free Choice' up until today - a nation in waiting. This book looks at the art and daily life of its people and concludes with a study of those who have dedicated their lives to the struggle for independence."--Back cover.