Maurice Collis

Maurice Collis (1889-1973) was a British administrator and author known for his extensive writings about Burma, Southeast Asia, and China during the early to mid-20th century. His work encompassed historical non-fiction, biography, and travel writing, with particular focus on colonial Burma where he served as a civil servant for over two decades. During his administrative career from 1912 to 1934, Collis held various positions including Commissioner of Rangoon and Magistrate, experiences which informed his later literary works. His first-hand knowledge of Burmese culture and society provided the foundation for books such as "Trials in Burma" (1938) and "Into Hidden Burma" (1953). After retiring from civil service, Collis dedicated himself to writing full-time, producing notable works including "Foreign Mud: Being an Account of the Opium Imbroglio at Canton" (1946) and "The First Holy One" (1948). His literary style combined historical research with narrative storytelling, making complex historical events accessible to general readers. The breadth of Collis's work extends beyond Burma, covering topics such as British-Chinese relations, the opium trade, and various historical figures in Asian history. His contributions to Asian historical literature continue to be referenced by scholars and historians studying colonial Southeast Asia and Anglo-Asian relations.

Readers value Collis's first-hand experiences and detailed knowledge of Burma and Southeast Asia from his years as a colonial administrator. His writing provides unique insights into colonial-era Burma and Asian history. What readers liked: - Clear explanations of complex historical events - Personal observations from his time in Burma - Balance of historical detail with engaging narrative - Authentic portrayal of Burmese culture and society What readers disliked: - Some dated colonial perspectives and attitudes - Occasional density of historical detail - Writing style can feel formal by modern standards Ratings/Reviews: - Goodreads: "Foreign Mud" (4.0/5 from 23 ratings) - "Trials in Burma" (3.9/5 from 15 ratings) - Amazon ratings sparse, averaging 4+ stars - Several readers on history forums praise his accuracy and detail but note his works can be hard to find One reader on Goodreads noted: "His personal experience in Burma gives authenticity other writers lack." Another commented: "Important historical perspective, though views reflect his era."

She Was a Queen - Chronicles the life of Shin Sawbu, a 15th-century queen who ruled the Mon kingdom of Pegu in Burma, detailing her rise to power and significant reign.

Foreign Mud - Documents the First Opium War between Britain and China, examining the complex trade disputes and cultural conflicts that led to the conflict.

Trials in Burma - Recounts Collis's personal experiences as a magistrate in colonial Burma, describing notable legal cases and social conditions.

Into Hidden Burma - Details travels through remote regions of Burma, documenting local customs, landscapes, and encounters with various ethnic groups.

The First Holy One - Explores the life and legacy of Gautama Buddha through historical and cultural perspectives of ancient India.

Last and First in Burma - Records the final years of British colonial rule in Burma and the transition toward independence.

The Grand Peregrination - Traces the journey of Portuguese adventurer Fernão Mendes Pinto through 16th-century Asia.

Siamese White - Narrates the story of Samuel White, a 17th-century English merchant who became an influential figure in Siam.

Lords of the Sunset - Examines the history and culture of the Shan States in Burma through their traditional ruling princes.

Marco Polo - Presents a biographical account of the famous explorer's travels through Asia in the 13th century.

George Orwell served as a police officer in Burma and wrote about colonial experiences in "Burmese Days." His first-hand observations of British imperialism in Asia parallel Collis's perspective on colonial administration and Burmese society.

Norman Lewis wrote extensively about his travels in Southeast Asia and documented changing societies in the mid-20th century. His work "Golden Earth: Travels in Burma" offers complementary perspectives to Collis's observations of Burma.

Somerset Maugham produced writings about British colonials in Asia based on his experiences traveling through Burma, China, and Malaya. His works share similar themes with Collis regarding cultural interactions between East and West during the colonial period.

John Masters wrote about British India from his experience as a military officer and civil servant. His combination of historical detail and personal experience mirrors Collis's approach to documenting colonial administration.

Leonard Woolf served as a colonial administrator in Ceylon and wrote about his experiences in the British Empire. His works examine colonial governance and cross-cultural relationships in ways that align with Collis's administrative perspective.