Behind the romantic image of Bali lies a complex social history. In the past, the Balinese have had to come to terms with Dutch colonialism, world war, incorporation into the Indonesian state, as well as a tourist boom. This book presents detailed ethnographic analyses and historically informed interpretations of status competition, caste conflict, ritual information, religious innovation, and the cultural politics of identity in today's Bali. Engaging and accessible in style, this volume makes a major contribution to the understanding of modern Balinese society and its future development.