For centuries, Tibet has been known as an exotic land, and its people famed for their tolerance and great spirituality. This quiet, beautiful region has been occupied by the Chinese since 1949. Before the Chinese invaded, Tibet had been living peacefully under the rule of a succession of Dalai and Panchen Lamas. This illuminating account by cultural anthropologist Francoise Pommaret examines the turbulent and painful history of this country and its gentle people's continuing struggle for independence.