Eastern Shadows

This audiobook is narrated by a digital voice. Across Asia, famines have been among the most catastrophic consequences of political upheaval, poor governance, and conflict. This gripping four-in-one collection explores some of the most devastating famines that shaped the region’s history, revealing how war, rebellion, and misguided policies contributed to mass starvation. Through historical records, survivor testimonies, and in-depth analysis, this volume unveils the human suffering behind these tragic events. The first section examines the An Lushan Rebellion and the resulting famine, which decimated the Tang Dynasty and left millions dead in its wake. The second account focuses on the Chinese Great Leap Forward Famine, a man-made disaster that led to the death of an estimated 30 million people due to ill-conceived agricultural policies and forced collectivization under Mao Zedong’s regime. The third narrative delves into the Korean Famine of 1950–1953, a direct result of the Korean War and the political turmoil that devastated the peninsula, leaving millions in dire hunger. Finally, the volume explores the North Korean Famine, a tragedy that persists as a consequence of isolationist policies, economic mismanagement, and an oppressive government. These stories highlight the deep connection between political control and famine, shedding light on the brutal realities faced by millions across Asia.