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# A History of India: A Comprehensive Overview
Keywords: A History of India, Indian History, History of the Indian Subcontinent, Ancient India, Medieval India, Modern India, Indian Civilization, British Raj, Indian Independence, Post-Colonial India
Author: While there isn't one single definitive "A History of India," many acclaimed historians have penned comprehensive works. For the purpose of this overview, we'll consider works by authors like Romila Thapar, a renowned historian specializing in ancient and early medieval India, known for her meticulous research and insightful interpretations. Her numerous publications, including A History of India, establish her expertise. Similarly, Bipin Chandra, a prominent scholar of modern Indian history, has significantly contributed to our understanding of the nationalist movement and post-independence India. Their credentials – decades of research, teaching, and publication in reputable academic journals – lend authority to their interpretations of A History of India.
A History of India: From Ancient Civilizations to the Modern Era
A History of India is a vast and complex subject, encompassing millennia of human experience and shaping one of the world's oldest and most diverse civilizations. Any attempt to encapsulate its richness in a single narrative necessarily involves selection and interpretation. Different authors, influenced by their own perspectives and the available evidence, will emphasize different aspects of this rich history. Understanding A History of India requires acknowledging these diverse perspectives.
The Ancient Period: Foundations of Civilization (c. 3300 BCE – 1206 CE)
A History of India begins long before recorded history, with the emergence of early agricultural settlements in the Indus Valley Civilization (c. 3300 – 1300 BCE). This sophisticated urban civilization, characterized by its advanced city planning, standardized weights and measures, and sophisticated drainage systems, laid the groundwork for subsequent developments. A History of India then unfolds through the Vedic period (c. 1500 – 500 BCE), marked by the composition of the Vedas and the development of a complex social and religious system. The rise of powerful empires – the Mauryan Empire under Chandragupta Maurya and Ashoka the Great, and the Gupta Empire – saw periods of consolidation and cultural flourishing. A History of India during this era encompasses significant advancements in various fields: art, architecture, literature, science, and mathematics. The flourishing of Buddhism and Jainism profoundly impacted the spiritual and philosophical landscape.
The Medieval Period: Conquest and Kingdoms (1206 – 1707 CE)
The medieval period in A History of India is characterized by the arrival and establishment of various dynasties, including the Delhi Sultanate and the Mughal Empire. The Delhi Sultanate, founded by Qutb-ud-din Aibak, witnessed the establishment of Islamic rule in northern India. This period saw significant cultural exchange and syncretism, resulting in a blend of Hindu and Islamic traditions. The Mughal Empire, under emperors like Babur, Akbar, Shah Jahan, and Aurangzeb, extended its reach across much of the subcontinent. This era was marked by architectural marvels like the Taj Mahal, advancements in art, literature, and administration. However, A History of India during this period also documents periods of conflict and religious tensions.
The Early Modern Period: The Rise of the British Raj (1707 – 1947 CE)
A History of India's early modern period witnessed the gradual expansion of European influence, culminating in the establishment of British dominance. The decline of the Mughal Empire created power vacuums that the British East India Company skillfully exploited. Through a combination of military might, economic manipulation, and political maneuvering, the British established control over vast swathes of the subcontinent. A History of India during the British Raj details the effects of colonialism – economic exploitation, administrative reforms, and the rise of Indian nationalism. The 19th century witnessed the emergence of various nationalist movements, advocating for self-rule and challenging British hegemony. Figures like Raja Ram Mohan Roy, Dadabhai Naoroji, Gopal Krishna Gokhale, and Bal Gangadhar Tilak played pivotal roles in shaping the nationalist discourse.
The Modern Period: Independence and Beyond (1947 – Present)
A History of India culminates in the achievement of independence in 1947, a watershed moment that partitioned the subcontinent into India and Pakistan. The aftermath of partition involved widespread violence and displacement. A History of India after 1947 chronicles the challenges faced by the newly independent nation – nation-building, economic development, social reform, and the ongoing integration of diverse communities. The period since independence has been marked by significant political and social changes, economic growth, and evolving geopolitical dynamics.
A History of India: Publisher and Editor
Many publishers have contributed to the vast body of literature on A History of India. Penguin Random House, Oxford University Press, Cambridge University Press, and Routledge are among the prominent publishers with a strong presence in this field. These publishers are known for their rigorous editorial processes and commitment to scholarly accuracy. While specific editors vary across individual publications, the editorial teams at these publishing houses are generally composed of experienced professionals with expertise in Indian history and related fields.
Summary of A History of India
A History of India is a multifaceted narrative spanning millennia, documenting the rise and fall of empires, the evolution of social and religious systems, and the ongoing interaction between diverse cultures. From the Indus Valley Civilization to the present day, this history showcases remarkable achievements in various fields, alongside periods of conflict and upheaval. A History of India highlights the complex interplay between indigenous traditions and external influences, particularly the impact of colonialism and the subsequent struggle for independence. The narrative underscores the enduring resilience and adaptability of Indian society, shaping its unique identity in the modern world.
Conclusion
A History of India offers a compelling journey through time, revealing the complexities of a civilization that has profoundly influenced the world. Understanding this history requires acknowledging its diverse perspectives and appreciating the ongoing scholarly debates surrounding its interpretation. By engaging with multiple sources and diverse viewpoints, we can develop a richer and more nuanced appreciation of this extraordinary history.
FAQs
1. What are the key periods in A History of India? A History of India is broadly divided into ancient, medieval, early modern, and modern periods, each marked by distinct political, social, and cultural characteristics.
2. Who are some of the most influential figures in A History of India? Influential figures include Ashoka the Great, Akbar, Mahatma Gandhi, Jawaharlal Nehru, and many others, each leaving their mark on various aspects of Indian society and politics.
3. What are the major themes in A History of India? Major themes include the development of agriculture and urban civilizations, the rise and fall of empires, the interplay between religious and political power, the impact of colonialism, and the struggle for independence.
4. How has the study of A History of India evolved over time? The study of A History of India has evolved considerably, moving from colonial narratives to postcolonial perspectives that incorporate marginalized voices and perspectives.
5. What are some of the major challenges in writing A History of India? Challenges include the vastness of the time period, the diversity of sources, and the need to navigate competing interpretations and biases.
6. What is the significance of partition in A History of India? The partition of India and Pakistan in 1947 was a watershed moment, marked by widespread violence and displacement, and profoundly shaping the subsequent history of both nations.
7. What are some of the ongoing debates in the study of A History of India? Ongoing debates revolve around the interpretation of key events, the role of various social groups, and the impact of globalization on Indian society.
8. How does A History of India relate to world history? A History of India is intrinsically linked to world history, playing a significant role in global trade, cultural exchange, and the spread of religious ideas.
9. Where can I find reliable sources to learn more about A History of India? Reputable academic journals, books published by university presses, and online resources from respected institutions are reliable sources to explore A History of India.
Related Articles:
1. The Indus Valley Civilization: A Cradle of Civilization: An exploration of the advancements and societal structures of the Indus Valley Civilization.
2. The Mauryan Empire: Ashoka's Reign and Legacy: A detailed study of the Mauryan Empire's political and social organization under Ashoka.
3. The Gupta Empire: A Golden Age in India: A look at the Gupta Empire's achievements in art, science, literature, and administration.
4. The Delhi Sultanate: A Period of Transformation: An examination of the political and cultural impact of the Delhi Sultanate.
5. The Mughal Empire: Grandeur and Decline: A study of the Mughal Empire's rise, its architectural and cultural achievements, and its eventual decline.
6. The British Raj: Colonialism and its Impact on India: A critical analysis of British rule in India, its economic and social consequences, and the rise of Indian nationalism.
7. The Indian Independence Movement: A Struggle for Freedom: A comprehensive overview of the various movements and figures that shaped India's struggle for independence.
8. Partition of India: A Legacy of Violence and Displacement: A detailed examination of the partition of India and Pakistan and its enduring consequences.
9. Post-Colonial India: Nation-Building and Development: An exploration of the challenges and achievements of post-colonial India in nation-building, economic development, and social reform.
| a history of india: India: The Ancient Past Burjor Avari, 2016-07-01 India: The Ancient Past provides a clear and systematic introduction to the cultural, political, economic, social and geographical history of ancient India from the time of the pre-Harappan culture nine thousand years ago up until the beginning of the second millennium of the Common Era. The book engages with methodological and controversial issues by examining key themes such as the Indus-Sarasvati civilization, the Aryan controversy, the development of Vedic and heterodox religions, and the political economy and social life of ancient Indian kingdoms. This fully revised and updated second edition includes: Three new chapters examining the differences and commonalities between the north and south of India; Extended discussion on contested issues, such as the origins of the Aryans and the role of feudalism in ancient India; New source excerpts to introduce students to the most significant works in the historiography of India, and questions for discussion; Study guides, including a list of key issues, suggested readings and a selection of internet sources for each chapter; Specially designed maps to illustrate different time periods and geographical regions This richly illustrated guide provides a fascinating account of the early development of Indian culture and civilization that will appeal to all students of Indian history. |
| a history of india: India John Keay, 2010 Accommodating Pakistan and Bangladesh and other embryonic nation states like the Sikh Punjab, Muslim Kashmir and Assam, this text examines the legacy of the 1947 partition, and looks at the colonial era from the overall context of Indian history. |
| a history of india: A History of India Hermann Kulke, Dietmar Rothermund, 2004 This fourth edition of A History of India presents the grand sweep of Indian history from antiquity to the present in a compact and readable survey. The authors examine the major political, economic, social and cultural forces which have shaped the history of the subcontinent. Providing an authoritative and detailed account, Hermann Kulke and Dietmar Rothermund emphasize and analyze the structural pattern of Indian history. The fourth edition of this highly accessible book brings the history of India up to date to consider, for example, the recent developments in the Kashmir conflict. Along with a new glossary, this edition also includes expanded discussions of the Mughal empire and the economic history of India. |
| a history of india: A History of India Romila Thapar, Percival Spear, Thomas George Percival Spear, 1990 This Second Volume Of A Classic Introduction To India'S History Deals With The Mughal And British Periods, Tracing The Continuities That Pervaded Them. Mughal Rule Is Seen As The Precondition For The Modern Age Ushered In By The British, And The Raj As The Harbinger Of Western Civilization In India. |
| a history of india: Incarnations Sunil Khilnani, 2017-01-12 For all of India’s myths, stories and moral epics, Indian history remains a curiously unpeopled place. In Incarnations, Sunil Khilnani fills that space, recapturing the human dimension of how the world’s largest democracy came to be. His trenchant portraits of emperors, warriors, philosophers, film stars and corporate titans—some famous, some unjustly forgotten—bring feeling, wry humour and uncommon insight to dilemmas that extend from ancient times to our own. |
| a history of india: India John Keay, 2011-04-12 The British historian and author of Into India delivers “a history that is intelligent, incisive, and eminently readable” (Kirkus Reviews, starred review). Fully revised with forty thousand new words that take the reader up to present-day India, John Keay’s India: A History spans five millennia in a sweeping narrative that tells the story of the peoples of the subcontinent, from their ancient beginnings in the valley of the Indus to the events in the region today. In charting the evolution of the rich tapestry of cultures, religions, and peoples that comprise the modern nations of Pakistan, India, and Bangladesh, Keay weaves together insights from a variety of scholarly fields to create a rich historical narrative. Wide-ranging and authoritative, India: A History is a compelling epic portrait of one of the world’s oldest and most richly diverse civilizations. “Keay’s panoramic vision and multidisciplinary approach serves the function of all great historical writing. It illuminates the present.” —Thrity Umrigar, The Boston Globe |
| a history of india: India: A Short History (A Short History) Andrew Robinson, 2014-05-20 India’s unfolding story, from the ancient Hindu dynasties to the coming of Islam, from the Mughal Empire to the present day India has always been a land of great contradictions. To Alexander the Great, the country was a place of clever naked philosophers and massive armies mounted on elephants – which eventually forced his army to retreat. To ancient Rome, it was a source of luxuries, mainly spices and textiles, paid for in gold—hence the enormous numbers of Roman gold coins excavated in India. At the height of the Mughal empire in 1700, India boasted 24 percent of the world economy—a share virtually equal to Europe’s 25 percent. But then its economy declined. Colonial India was known for its extremes of wealth and poverty, epitomized by the Taj Mahal and famines, maharajas and untouchables, and also for its spirituality: many-armed Hindu gods and Buddhist philosophy, Mahatma Gandhi and Rabindranath Tagore. India: A Short History places as much emphasis on individuals, ideas and cultures as on the rise and fall of kingdoms, political parties and economies. Anyone curious about a great civilization, and its future, will find this an ideal introduction, at times controversial, written by an author who has been strongly engaged with India for more than three decades. |
| a history of india: A History of India Hermann Kulke, Dietmar Rothermund, 1998 Presenting a grand sweep of Indian history, this work covers antiquity to the later half of the 20th century. The authors examine the major political, social and cultural forces which have shaped the history of the Indian subcontinent. This third edition of the text has been updated to include current research as well as a revised preface, index and dateline. |
| a history of india: A History of India Burton Stein, 2010-04-12 This new edition of Burton Stein's classic A History of India builds on the success of the original to provide an updated narrative of the development of Indian society, culture, and politics from 7000 BC to the present. New edition of Burton Stein’s classic text provides a narrative from 7000 BC up to the twenty-first century Includes updated and extended coverage of the modern period, with a new chapter covering the death of Nehru in 1964 to the present Expands coverage of India's internal political and economic development, and its wider diplomatic role in the region Features a new introduction, updated glossary and further reading sections, and numerous figures, photographs and fully revised maps Part of The Blackwell History of the World Series The goal of this ambitious series is to provide an accessible source of knowledge about the entire human past, for every curious person in every part of the world. It will comprise some two dozen volumes, of which some provide synoptic views of the history of particular regions while others consider the world as a whole during a particular period of time. The volumes are narrative in form, giving balanced attention to social and cultural history (in the broadest sense) as well as to institutional development and political change. Each provides a systematic account of a very large subject, but they are also both imaginative and interpretative. The Series is intended to be accessible to the widest possible readership, and the accessibility of its volumes is matched by the style of presentation and production. |
| a history of india: A History of India Romila Thapar, 1990-06-28 A history of India upto 1300 AD introducing the beginnings of India's cultural dynamics |
| a history of india: The Shortest History of India: From the World's Oldest Civilization to Its Largest Democracy - A Retelling for Our Times (Shortest History) John Zubrzycki, 2023-11-07 5,000 years of history—from the Bhagavad Gita to Bollywood—fill this masterful portrait of the world’s most populous nation and a rising global power. The Shortest History books deliver thousands of years of history in one riveting, fast-paced read. India—a cradle of civilization with five millennia of history, a country of immense consequence and contradiction—often defies ready understanding. What holds its people together—across its many cultures, races, languages, and creeds—and how has India evolved into the liberal democracy it is today? From the Harappan era to Muslim invasions, the Great Mughals, British rule, independence, and present-day hopes, John Zubrzycki distills India’s colossal history into a gripping true story filled with legendary lives: Alexander the Great, Akbar, Robert Clive, Tipu Sultan, Lakshmi Bai, Lord Curzon, Jinnah, and Gandhi. India’s gifts to the world include Buddhism, yoga, the concept of zero, the largest global diaspora—and its influence is only growing. Already the world’s largest democracy, in 2023, India became the most populous nation. Can India overcome its political, social, and religious tensions to be the next global superpower? As the world watches—and wonders—this Shortest History is an essential, clarifying read. |
| a history of india: A Cultural History of India Arthur Llewellyn Basham, 1975 This book, edited by the well-known historian A. L. Basham, presents a comprehensive survey of Indian culture, covering such aspects as religion, philosophy, social organization, literature, art. architecture, music and science. It includes a special section dealing with the influence ofIndian civilization on the rest of the world, as well as details of the political history of the region to provide a chronological framework for the non-specialist. Contributors include such eminent scholars as Radhakrishnan, Burrow, Das, and Spear. |
| a history of india: History of Ancient India (A New Version) J.P. Mittal, 2006 The Present Book, New History Of Ancient India, Is An Attempt To Present The Indian History In The Light Of Recent Discoveries And Excavations Made In This Field. The History Of India Before The Invasion Of Alexander The Great In 328 B.C. Has Been Generally Considered A Myth. Accordingly, Brahma, Vishnu And Mahesh, Manu And Mandhata, Harishchandra And Bhagirath, Shri Rama And Shri Krishna, All Have Been Treated Non-Historical, Mythical Personages. But The Recent Discoveries Like Those Of Dwarika Of Shri Krishna In The Sea And Lanka Of Ravana In Orissa As Well As The Authentic Determining Of The Date Of Floods, That Find Mention In The Purana, Have Outrightly Refuted The Past Presumptions. With New Things Coming To Light, It Is Desirable That History Be Rewritten. It Is With This View That The Present Book Has Been Written. It Aims At Presenting The Information In An Analytic Manner And Also In Chronological Order. Beginning From The Vedic Yuga, The Book Presents An In-Depth Study Of Devasura Yuga, Satya Yuga, Dwapar Yuga And Kaliyuga. All The Information, Both Conventional And Recent, Provided In The Book Are Authentic As They Are Taken From The Authoritative Sources. The Book Is Unique In Its Presentation As It Richly Provides Maps Of Ancient States, Photographs And Figures, Which Not Only Give A Glimpse Of The Related Age Or Yuga But Also Facilitate Easy Understanding Of Information. Since Miracles, Exaggerations, Mysteries And Supernatural Powers Find No Reference Here, The Book Can Be Held A Complete, Authoritative Text On Ancient Indian History.It Is Hoped That The Students, Research Scholars And Even Teachers Of Indian History Will Find This Book Highly Useful And Indispensable For Having A Thorough And Updated Knowledge Of Ancient India. Even The General Readers Will Find This Book Extremely Interesting And Informative. |
| a history of india: The History of India John McLeod, 2015-02-10 This accessible, narrative account follows Indian history over its 9,000 year trajectory, from the ancient Harappans to today, emphasizing events and issues of the 20th and 21st centuries. Written for high school students and general readers who have little background on the world's largest democracy, this second edition of a popular work provides an objective overview of Indian history with a particular focus on the modern nation. Approximately half of the book deals with developments since the beginning of the 20th century, with new chapters covering events and issues that made news between 2002 and 2014. Readers can learn about the Bollywood craze, 21st-century economic growth, and concerns about the safety and equality of women today, as well as about such traditional topics as Buddhism and Hinduism, the Mughal Dynasty, and the British East India Company. Caste politics and the establishment of the Republic of India are covered, as is the life of Mahatma Gandhi. Completely revised and expanded, the second edition features fresh content throughout and includes photographs that were not in the earlier volume. The Notable Figures section, Appendix of Leaders, timeline, and glossary are also updated, and the bibliography now features electronic resources for students. |
| a history of india: History of India Captivating History, 2019-12-10 India is a land of mystery, richness, and deep spiritual discovery. Every facet of this ancient land seems scented with the famous spices that lured European traders to its shores more than five centuries ago. India is quite unique in the way it has brought its ancient histories and traditions with it into the modern age. |
| a history of india: An Environmental History of India Michael H. Fisher, 2018-10-18 This longue durée survey of the Indian subcontinent's environmental history reveals the complex interactions among its people and the natural world. |
| a history of india: A Brief History of India Alain Daniélou, 2003-02-11 Daniélou's powerful rebuttal to the conventional view of India's history, which calls for a massive reevaluation of the history of humanity • Explores historical occurrences from each major time period starting with the first appearance of man 30,000 years ago • Couples the clarity and perspective of an outsider with the unique and specific knowledge of an insider • By the internationally recognized Hindu scholar and translator of The Complete Kama Sutra (200,000 copies sold) Alain Daniélou approaches the history of India from a new perspective--as a sympathetic outsider, yet one who understands the deepest workings of the culture. Because the history of India covers such a long span of time, rather than try to create an exhaustive chronology of dates and events, Daniélou instead focuses on enduring institutions that remain constant despite the ephemeral historical events that occur. His selections, synthesis, and narration create a thoroughly engaging and readable journey through time, with a level of detail and comprehensiveness that is truly a marvel. Because of the continuity of its civilization, its unique social system, and the tremendous diversity of cultures, races, languages, and religions that exist in its vast territory, India is like a history museum. Its diverse groups maintained their separate identities and never fully supplanted the culture and knowledge of their predecessors. Even today one may encounter in India primitive Stone Age people whose technology has remained at what is considered prehistoric levels. Thus Daniélou's examination of India reveals not only the diversity and historical events and trends of that country, but also the history of all mankind. Through Daniélou's history of India we learn from whence we came, what we have discovered over the years in the fields of science, arts, technology, social structures, religions, and philosophical concepts, and what the future may hold for us. |
| a history of india: A History of Modern India Ishita Banerjee-Dube, 2014-10-27 This book provides an interpretive and comprehensive account of the history of India between the eighteenth and twentieth centuries, a crucial epoch characterized by colonialism, nationalism and the emergence of the independent Indian Union. It explores significant historiographical debates concerning the period while highlighting important new issues, especially those of gender, ecology, caste, and labour. The work combines an analysis of colonial and independent India in order to underscore ideologies, policies, and processes that shaped the colonial state and continue to mould the Indian nation. |
| a history of india: The History of India Mountstuart Elphinstone, 1841 |
| a history of india: The State in India, 1000-1700 Hermann Kulke, 1995 Since the 1940s, revaluations of the nature of the State have been a major preoccupation among historians worldwide. There has been a debate on the extent to which the State is independent of the interests of the ruling class. Pre-colonial India provides a unique testing ground for such debates, for it provides examples of State forms which vary enormously. Yet serious consideration of the nature of State forms in India was often overwhelmed by a focus on 'caste' and 'brahminism'. Now, however, as Professor Kulke demonstrates in his Introduction to this book - which consists of all the major essays on this important theme - several basic forms of the State can be isolated. Although the notion of 'centralized empire' still dominates the historiography, alternative models such as 'the segmentary state' and 'the patrimonial state' have given rise to productive debates. |
| a history of india: A History of South India from Prehistoric Times to the Fall of Vijayanagar Kallidaikurichi Aiyah Nilakanta Sastri, 1958 |
| a history of india: Cultural History of India Om Prakash, 2005 Cultural History Of India Has Been Divided Into Three Parts To Discuss Various Aspects Of Development Of Indian Culture. It Talks About How Religions Such As The Vedic Religion, Buddhism, Jainism, Saivism And Vaisnavism Aimed At Securing Social Harmony, Moral Upliftment, And Inculcated A Sense Of Duty In The Individual. The Development Of Indian Art And Architecture Was A Creative Effort To Project Symbols Of Divine Reality As Conceived And Understood By The Collective Consciousness Of The People As A Whole. The Book Also Focuses On Social Intuitions, Educational Systems And Economic Organisation In Ancient India. Finally, The Book Discusses The Dietary System Of Indians From Pre-Historic Times To C. 1200 A.D. The Basis For Inclusion Of Food And Drinks In The Book On Indian Culture Is That Ancient Indians Believed That Food Not Only Kept An Individual Healthy, But Was Also Responsible For His Mental Make Up.According To The Author, It Is Of Utmost Importance That The Present Generation Imbibe Those Elements Of Indian Culture Which Have Kept India Vital And Going Through Its Long And Continuous History .Cultural History Of India Is An Extremely Useful Journal On Indian History And Culture For All Readers, Both In India And Abroad. It Is Therefore A Must-Read For All Interested In Indias Proud Past, Which Forms The Eternal Bed-Rock Of Its Fateful Present And Glorious Future. It Is An Academic Book Very Useful For Student Of History Aspiring For I.A.S. |
| a history of india: The Penguin History of Early India Romila Thapar, 2003 A Largely Rewritten Version Of A Classic History Of Early India Concerned Not Only With The Past But Also With The Interaction Of The Past And The Present. Romila Thapar S Penguin History Of Early India Brings To Life Many Centuries Of The Indian Past. Dynastic History Provides A Chronological Frame But The Essential Thrust Of The Book Is The Explanation Of The Changes In Society And Economy. The Mutation Of Religious Beliefs And Practices, The Exploration Of Areas Of Knowledge In Which India Excelled, Its Creative Literature, Are All Woven Into A Historical Context. In This Version, The Opening Chapters Explain How The Interpretations Of Early Indian History Have Changed. Further, Although The Diversity Of Sources And Their Readings Are Well Known, Nevertheless, This Narrative Provides Fresh Readings And Raises New Questions. Romila Thapar Gives A Vivid And Nuanced Picture Of The Rich Mosaic Of Varied Landscapes, Languages, Kingdoms And Beliefs, And The Interaction Between These That Went Into The Making Of A Remarkable Civilization. |
| a history of india: The History of British India James Mill, 1848 |
| a history of india: A Children's History of India Subhadra Sen Gupta, 2015-07-29 Which were the first cities of India and how were they discovered? What was it like living in Mughal times? How did the British, who had come to trade in India, end up ruling the country? How has India changed after Independence? Delve into India's past to discover the answers to these questions and many more in this comprehensive history of our nation. Journey through time to visit the baths and palaces of the first cities of Harappa, the stupas of Ashoka and the flamboyant courts of the great Mughals, rich in art, culture and architecture. Learn how the revolution of 1857 really started and march alongside Gandhi on his quest for an India free from British rule. Plus, discover more about each period through fun and easy 'To do' activities. Told in simple, lucid prose and interspersed with beautiful illustrations, A Children's History of India makes learning history a fun and engaging experience for readers of all ages. |
| a history of india: A History of Modern India Ishita Banerjee-Dube, 2015 This book provides an interpretive and comprehensive account of the history of India between the eighteenth and twentieth centuries, a crucial epoch characterized by colonialism, nationalism and the emergence of the independent Indian Union. It explores significant historiographical debates concerning the period while highlighting important new issues, especially those of gender, ecology, caste, and labour. The work combines an analysis of colonial and independent India in order to underscore ideologies, policies, and processes that shaped the colonial state and continue to mould the Indian nation. |
| a history of india: The British in India David Gilmour, 2018-11-13 An immersive portrait of the lives of the British in India, from the seventeenth century to Independence Who of the British went to India, and why? We know about Kipling and Forster, Orwell and Scott, but what of the youthful forestry official, the enterprising boxwallah, the fervid missionary? What motivated them to travel halfway around the globe, what lives did they lead when they got there, and what did they think about it all? Full of spirited, illuminating anecdotes drawn from long-forgotten memoirs, correspondence, and government documents, The British in India weaves a rich tapestry of the everyday experiences of the Britons who found themselves in “the jewel in the crown” of the British Empire. David Gilmour captures the substance and texture of their work, home, and social lives, and illustrates how these transformed across the several centuries of British presence and rule in the subcontinent, from the East India Company’s first trading station in 1615 to the twilight of the Raj and Partition and Independence in 1947. He takes us through remote hill stations, bustling coastal ports, opulent palaces, regimented cantonments, and dense jungles, revealing the country as seen through British eyes, and wittily reveling in all the particular concerns and contradictions that were a consequence of that limited perspective. The British in India is a breathtaking accomplishment, a vivid and balanced history written with brio, elegance, and erudition. |
| a history of india: A Short History of India Gordon Kerr, 2017-05-25 The world's largest democracy and second-most populous country, 21st century India is a dynamic nation with a thrusting economy, made up of a variety of beliefs and peoples united under one flag. Its history is a unique story of ancient empires and civilizations, some dating back to humankind's earliest history. Ancient India was home to myriad kingdoms with boundaries that were ever changing while a variety of cultures and religions have flourished over the millennia as the influence of foreign invaders and occupiers has come and gone. The country was under foreign rule from the early 1800s until the demise of the British Raj and independence in 1947. With countless languages and cultures and many religions, India is one of the world's most diverse nations. From the late 1980s, India has opened itself to the outside world, encouraging economic reform and foreign investment and is now courted by the world's leading economic and political powers, including its one-time enemy, China. It is now a major power with a burgeoning middle class, having made substantial strides in areas such as information technology. The availability of a large, skilled workforce makes it a popular choice for international companies looking to outsource work. It has launched a space programme and, famously, boasts a massive film industry, its 'Bollywood' films being amongst the most-watched in the world. Meanwhile, India still has major issues with poverty and illiteracy and campaigns have been launched to alleviate these problems. A Short History of India traces the fascinating path from the India of ancient empires and powerful kingdoms to the flourishing, vibrant nation that it is today. Praise for Gordon Kerr: 'informative, fascinating and extremely well-researched...Gordon Kerr's book is a mini masterpiece' - Rob Minshull, ABC Brisbane 'Factual and even-handed, Kerr presents a fair-minded introduction of basic Chinese history' - Booklist |
| a history of india: A History of State and Religion in India Ian Copland, Ian Mabbett, Asim Roy, Kate Brittlebank, Adam Bowles, 2013-05-02 Offering the first long-duration analysis of the relationship between the state and religion in South Asia, this book looks at the nature and origins of Indian secularism. It interrogates the proposition that communalism in India is wholly a product of colonial policy and modernisation, questions whether the Indian state has generally been a benign, or disruptive, influence on public religious life, and evaluates the claim that the region has spawned a culture of practical toleration. The book is structured around six key arenas of interaction between state and religion: cow worship and sacrifice, control of temples and shrines, religious festivals and processions, proselytising and conversion, communal riots, and religious teaching/doctrine and family law. It offers a challenging argument about the role of the state in religious life in a historical continuum, and identifies points of similarity and contrast between periods and regimes. The book makes a significant contribution to the literature on South Asian History and Religion. |
| a history of india: A Concise History of Modern India Barbara D. Metcalf, Thomas R. Metcalf, 2006-09-28 In a second edition of their successful Concise History of Modern India, Barbara Metcalf and Thomas Metcalf explore India's modern history afresh and update the events of the last decade. These include the takeover of Congress from the seemingly entrenched Hindu nationalist party in 2004, India's huge advances in technology and the country's new role as a major player in world affairs. From the days of the Mughals, through the British Empire, and into Independence, the country has been transformed by its institutional structures. It is these institutions which have helped bring about the social, cultural and economic changes that have taken place over the last half century and paved the way for the modern success story. Despite these advances, poverty, social inequality and religious division still fester. In response to these dilemmas, the book grapples with questions of caste and religious identity, and the nature of the Indian nation. |
| a history of india: History of India N. Jayapalan, 2001 This Monumental Four-Volume Work Offers An Elaborate And Chronological Account Of Indian History From The Earliest Times To The Present Period.The First Volume, Which Pays Special Attention To The Reigns Of The Great Indian Monarchs, Such As Chandragupta Maurya, Asoka, Kanishka, Samudra Gupta, Chandra Gupta Ii (Vikramaditya) And Harsha, Has Adequately Highlighted The Achievements Of Their Reigns In A Manner That Is Bound To Arouse Not Only Curiosity But Also Provoke Reflection. Full Attention Is Also Given To The Cultural, Religious And Social Conditions Of India During The 6Th Century B.C. The Book Also Portrays The Golden Age Of Guptas, The General Administration Of The Cholas And The Flourishing Culture Of The Pallavas.In The Second Volume, All Aspects Of Indian History From A.D. 1206 To 1773 Are Discussed. Part I Of The Volume Covers The Sultanate Period, And Part Ii The Mughal Period And The Arrival Of The Europeans. The Process Through Which The English, Who Came As Traders But Rapidly Transformed Themselves Into Rulers, Is Outlined In The Volume. A Very Important Feature Of The Volume Is The Emphasis It Lays On The Social, Economic And Cultural Conditions Current In India During The Sultanate And The Mughal Periods.Indian History From A.D. 1773 To The Present Is Covered By The Third And Fourth Volumes. These Volumes Also Offer The Reader A Detailed And Graphic Account Of The British Period Of Indian History. The Focus On The Revolt Of 1857, The Development Of The Constitutional Framework From 1773 To 1950 And The National Movement Will Prove To Be Of Immense Interest To The Readers And Students Of Indian History. The History Of India Since Independence Has Also Been Discussed In These Two Volumes. Some Of The Other Important Topics Covered In These Volumes Include The Indian Movements For Reform And Social Change, The Impact Of The British Paramountcy On Indian Economy And The Legacy That It Has Left.Written In Simple Language And A Lucid Style By A Person Who Has Been Teaching The Subject At College Level For Several Years, This Comprehensive Yet Reasonably Sized Four-Volume Work On Indian History Will Prove To Be Of Immediate Interest And Relevance Not Only To Students And Teachers Of Indian History, But Also To The General Reader. |
| a history of india: A History of India Edward John Thompson, 1928 |
| a history of india: Making India Great Again Meeta Rajivlochan, M. Rajivlochan, 2020-09-30 How can India become a great country once again, is the question explored in this book. In the past, India had significant achievements in science, technology, mathematics and business. A failure to build robust institutional networks of information and trust and indifference of the state to business communities, brought all that crashing down within a generation. Many of these historical patterns persist till today. The ability to create wealth has everything to do with such networks. There was never any shortage of innovation in India. What was lacking was the ability to learn from their own experience. The building of learning networks and a learning ecosystem that could be used by people to leverage success – this is what is needed to unlock the huge talent pool that India possesses. This book addresses young, educated and aspiring Indians in different walks of life who are interested in contemporary issues relating to nation, society and economy. It puts forward some solutions to the problems that India faces. It would be of interest to anyone who would like to know how history can teach us to re-write the Indian growth story and to re-build a great nation. The book could also be used as reading material for students of history, political science, public administration, business administration, in under-graduate and post-graduate classes. Please note: This title is co-published with Manohar Publishers, New Delhi. Taylor & Francis does not sell or distribute the Hardback in India, Pakistan, Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka |
| a history of india: The History of India, as Told by Its Own Historians. The Muhammadan Period Sir Henry Miers Elliot, John Dowson, 1867 |
| a history of india: A History of Civilisation in Ancient India Based on Sanscrit Literature Romesh Chunder Dutt, 1893 |
| a history of india: India Richard Blurton, 2022-09-27 An authoritative visual history of India, one of the world’s oldest and most vibrant cultures, drawing on South Asian art and artifacts from prehistory to the present. India: A History in Objects presents a beautiful collection of material culture from South Asia and traces its history through a huge variety of art and artifacts, both religious and secular. Arranged chronologically, and abundantly illustrated with expertly selected objects, this superb new overview connects today’s South Asia with its past. Early chapters describe prehistoric objects from 1.5 million years ago, examine artifacts from the Indus Civilization, and follow the emergence of Buddhism, Jainism, Hinduism, Sikhism, Islam, and Christianity. The collection outlines the rise of the Mughals, the greatest Muslim dynasty of India, who made India a leading economic power. The distinct Mughal style is traced through paintings, architecture, hardstone carving, metalwork, and jewelry. This volume also explores the early trade industry to Europe via examples of spice pots, textiles, and other luxury goods. Finally, modernism and political independence in the 20th century are examined through Indian culture such as popular prints, contemporary photography, and the performing arts. This volume presents a vast panoply, from the urban splendor of dynastic empires to the rural life of the subcontinent. A compelling visual history of rich and diverse cultures, this book will inspire and inform anyone interested in India and material culture. |
| a history of india: The History of India for Children Archana Garodia Gupta, Shruti Garodia, 2018-08-06 There were ostriches in India. Gold was dug up in the Himalayas by animals. Coins of Greek rulers in India showed Krishna wearing Greek clothes. Ethiopian military slaves founded kingdoms across India. Jump into an action-packed history of India told like never before. Discover our incredible heritage and uncover delightful nuggets about our grand old country. Travel through time and see how people lived, why things happened and how we came to be what we are. Written by BBC Mastermind `Champion of Champions? Archana Garodia Gupta and history-geek Shruti Garodia, this volume spans the ages from the dawn of humans until the Delhi and Deccan sultanates, and tells the story of India?s rulers and invaders, traders and architects, sculptors and poets, scientists and innovators, farmers and businessmen, and millions and millions of just ordinary, everyday men and women. With a chatty style, simple explanations and well-rounded coverage, this is the definitive Indian history in two volumes for young readers. Filled with photographs, illustrations, activities and quotable facts, this is one retelling of history you don?t want to miss. |
| a history of india: A History of the New India Eugene F. Irschick, 2015 This textbook provides a different approach to the History of India than previously advocated. It argues that there was constant interaction between peoples and cultures, and as such, the it presents the history of India in this fashion. This interactive, dialogic approach provides a more better understanding of how power and social relations operated in South Asia. Consisting of seven chapters, each being divided roughly between political and thematic questions, the book covers the history of India from Mughal times to the first years of independent India. Topics discussed include: The Mughal system and European engagement in local and Asian commerce Mughal warfare and military developments The growth of India's pre-colonial economy India under British rule and the development of Indian states The construction of Indian culture Indian, regional and local political articulation The discovery of the Indus Valley culture in 1922 The Indian National Congress, Gandhian and Anti-Gandhian Movements, local 'separatist' and other groups India's Independence and the end of British rule The growth of the Hindu Right The 1946 Elections, rise of the Muslim League, the high politics of Partition and the drive for Pakistan Dispute over Kashmir The Indian Constitution as a product of dalit consciousness - 1950 Diasporic movements Written in an accessible, narrative style, this book will be suitable as required reading in courses on Indian and South Asian History, courses on World History and South Asian Studies. |
| a history of india: China: A History John Keay, 2010-04-15 Three thousand years of Chinese history in an accessible and authoritative single volume. |
| a history of india: India John Keay, 2011-04-12 The British historian and author of Into India delivers “a history that is intelligent, incisive, and eminently readable” (Kirkus Reviews, starred review). Fully revised with forty thousand new words that take the reader up to present-day India, John Keay’s India: A History spans five millennia in a sweeping narrative that tells the story of the peoples of the subcontinent, from their ancient beginnings in the valley of the Indus to the events in the region today. In charting the evolution of the rich tapestry of cultures, religions, and peoples that comprise the modern nations of Pakistan, India, and Bangladesh, Keay weaves together insights from a variety of scholarly fields to create a rich historical narrative. Wide-ranging and authoritative, India: A History is a compelling epic portrait of one of the world’s oldest and most richly diverse civilizations. “Keay’s panoramic vision and multidisciplinary approach serves the function of all great historical writing. It illuminates the present.” —Thrity Umrigar, The Boston Globe |
A History of India - Archive.org
Professor Fisher has published 12 books and more than 50 articles on aspects of Indian history. Among his special interests are the interactions between Indians and Europeans, both in India …
India's Ancient Past - Internet Archive
Although educated Indians retained their traditional history in the form of handwritten epics, Puranas, and semi-biographical works, modern research in the history of ancient India began …
HISTORY OF INDIA (FROM 1707 TO 1947 A.D.) - Alagappa …
1.0 INTRODUCTION any social and cultural changes in India. One of the last great Mughals was Aurangzeb, who had he largest area of India under his reign. Soon the religious policy …
History of Ancient India Upto 1000 A.D
History of Ancient India Objectives: To provide an understanding to Ancient Indian Civilization such as Indus and Vedic. To understand the historical developments and changes in the …
Chronology of Ancient History of India to Modern History of …
Here we are giving the important incidents in the Chronological order of Ancient to Modern History of India, i.e., the Indian history chronological order which can help your history preparation. In …
A Concise History of India
The most familiar ways of understanding the Mughal era in Indian history were forged in a framework created by the British as they themselves devised a national history for their own …
A History of India, Third Edition - Minister of Defence
A History of India presents the grand sweep of Indian history from antiquity to the present in a compact and readable survey. This new edition has been thoroughly revised, containing …
HISTORY OF INDIA UPTO 1206 AD - Tripura Univ
India is recognized as having a unique and intriguing history and culture. Historical NOTES. records trace the beginning of Indian civilization to the ancient Indus Valley Civilization. It is …
India: The Ancient Past - vec.ac.in
India: The Ancient Past provides a clear and systematic introduction to the cultural, political, economic, social and geographical history of ancient India from the time of the pre-Harappan …
HISTORY OF INDIA FROM - Jiwaji
me to 1200 AD UNIT 1 History – Its Concept, Nature and Significance, Survey of Sources, Historical Facts in Puranas, Physical and Geographical Structure of India, Pre-historic age and …
THE NEW CAMBRIDGE HISTORY OF INDIA - Archive.org
Although the original Cambridge History of India, published between 1922 and 1937, did much to formulate a chronology for Indian history and de-scribe the administrative structures of …
A HISTORY OF INDIA - vec.ac.in
in Indian history. It is intended for those who have a general interest in India and might wish to acquaint themselves with the major developments in India. s early history. The history of India …
History of India from 1707 A.D. to 1885 A.D. - jmc.edu
The Battle of Plassey was a decisive victory of the British East India Company over a much larger force of the Nawab of Bengal and his French allies on 23 June 1757, under the leadership of …
ANCIENT INDIA In Historical Outline by D - Internet Archive
INDIA In Historical Outline by D.N. Jha This book is a substantially modified and enlarged version of the author's Ancient India: An Introductory Outline (Delhi, 1977) and surveys the major …
History of India and Indian National Movement Chapter 1
Historians have noted that discovering an ocean route to India had become an obsession for Prince Henry of Portugal, known as the 'Navigator,' as well as a method to sidestep the …
A History of Civilization in Ancient India - Archive.org
A History of Civilization in Ancient India. This is a digital copy of a book that was preserved for generations on library shelves before it was carefully scanned by Google as part of a project to …
India History Timeline - Archive.org
Vasco de Gama's first voyage from Europe to India and back (to 1499) 1526 Event Kingdom of Kochi is taken over by the Portuguese creating the first European settlement in India. The …
The Beginnings of Indian Civilisation CHAPTER - NCERT
The Beginnings of Indian Civilisation The most ancient civilisation of India, known variously as the Harappan, Indus or Indus-Sarasvatī Civilisation, was indeed 6 Fig.
India: Medieval History - Archive.org
Feb 28, 1979 · Some of the chapters of this volume, namely, Government and Economic Life; Society, Religion and Literature; Arts and Architecture; Pre-Historic and Proto-Historic Periods; …
Satish Chandra History Of Medieval India - Archive.org
As a nation grows, it is bound to review its past to see what part of its legacy is relevant, or an inhibiting factor, for growth. The medieval period of Indian history has often been equated to …
A History of India - Archive.org
Professor Fisher has published 12 books and more than 50 articles on aspects of Indian history. Among his special interests are the interactions between Indians and Europeans, both in India …
India's Ancient Past - Internet Archive
Although educated Indians retained their traditional history in the form of handwritten epics, Puranas, and semi-biographical works, modern research in the history of ancient India began …
HISTORY OF INDIA (FROM 1707 TO 1947 A.D.) - Alagappa …
1.0 INTRODUCTION any social and cultural changes in India. One of the last great Mughals was Aurangzeb, who had he largest area of India under his reign. Soon the religious policy …
History of Ancient India Upto 1000 A.D
History of Ancient India Objectives: To provide an understanding to Ancient Indian Civilization such as Indus and Vedic. To understand the historical developments and changes in the …
Chronology of Ancient History of India to Modern History …
Here we are giving the important incidents in the Chronological order of Ancient to Modern History of India, i.e., the Indian history chronological order which can help your history preparation. In …
A Concise History of India
The most familiar ways of understanding the Mughal era in Indian history were forged in a framework created by the British as they themselves devised a national history for their own …
A History of India, Third Edition - Minister of Defence
A History of India presents the grand sweep of Indian history from antiquity to the present in a compact and readable survey. This new edition has been thoroughly revised, containing …
HISTORY OF INDIA UPTO 1206 AD - Tripura Univ
India is recognized as having a unique and intriguing history and culture. Historical NOTES. records trace the beginning of Indian civilization to the ancient Indus Valley Civilization. It is …
India: The Ancient Past - vec.ac.in
India: The Ancient Past provides a clear and systematic introduction to the cultural, political, economic, social and geographical history of ancient India from the time of the pre-Harappan …
HISTORY OF INDIA FROM - Jiwaji
me to 1200 AD UNIT 1 History – Its Concept, Nature and Significance, Survey of Sources, Historical Facts in Puranas, Physical and Geographical Structure of India, Pre-historic age and …
THE NEW CAMBRIDGE HISTORY OF INDIA - Archive.org
Although the original Cambridge History of India, published between 1922 and 1937, did much to formulate a chronology for Indian history and de-scribe the administrative structures of …
A HISTORY OF INDIA - vec.ac.in
in Indian history. It is intended for those who have a general interest in India and might wish to acquaint themselves with the major developments in India. s early history. The history of India …
History of India from 1707 A.D. to 1885 A.D. - jmc.edu
The Battle of Plassey was a decisive victory of the British East India Company over a much larger force of the Nawab of Bengal and his French allies on 23 June 1757, under the leadership of …
ANCIENT INDIA In Historical Outline by D - Internet Archive
INDIA In Historical Outline by D.N. Jha This book is a substantially modified and enlarged version of the author's Ancient India: An Introductory Outline (Delhi, 1977) and surveys the major …
History of India and Indian National Movement Chapter 1
Historians have noted that discovering an ocean route to India had become an obsession for Prince Henry of Portugal, known as the 'Navigator,' as well as a method to sidestep the …
A History of Civilization in Ancient India - Archive.org
A History of Civilization in Ancient India. This is a digital copy of a book that was preserved for generations on library shelves before it was carefully scanned by Google as part of a project to …
India History Timeline - Archive.org
Vasco de Gama's first voyage from Europe to India and back (to 1499) 1526 Event Kingdom of Kochi is taken over by the Portuguese creating the first European settlement in India. The …
The Beginnings of Indian Civilisation CHAPTER - NCERT
The Beginnings of Indian Civilisation The most ancient civilisation of India, known variously as the Harappan, Indus or Indus-Sarasvatī Civilisation, was indeed 6 Fig.
India: Medieval History - Archive.org
Feb 28, 1979 · Some of the chapters of this volume, namely, Government and Economic Life; Society, Religion and Literature; Arts and Architecture; Pre-Historic and Proto-Historic Periods; …
Satish Chandra History Of Medieval India - Archive.org
As a nation grows, it is bound to review its past to see what part of its legacy is relevant, or an inhibiting factor, for growth. The medieval period of Indian history has often been equated to …
