"A detailed history of an ethnic minority region during the early years of the People's Republic of China, this book examines the unsuccessful efforts by the Chinese Communist Party to 'gradually' and 'voluntarily' incorporate the region known to Tibetans as Amdo into the new People's Republic of China"-- Provided by publisher.

Introduction.Amdo, Empire, and the United Front -- Amdo at the Edge of Empire -- If You Kill the County Head, How Will I Explain it to the Communist Party? -- Becoming Masters of their Own Home (Under the Leadership of the Party) -- Establishing a Foundation Among the Masses -- High Tide on the High Plateau -- Tibetans Do the Housework, But Han are the Masters -- Reaching the Sky in a Single Step : the Amdo Rebellion -- Empty Stomachs and Unforgivable Crimes -- Conclusion. Amdo and the End of Empire?.