India and South Asia: A Short History

by David E. Ludden

A completely revised edition offering insight into the key economic, social and political developments that have shaped both the individual countries of South Asia and region as a whole

Combining factual information with a critical approach which probes the nature of culture and identity, this concise yet authoritative account paints a graphic picture of an area stretching from the Indian Ocean to the Himalayan mountains. This new edition surveys nearly 5000 years, from the early settlers of prehistory to the assassination of Rajiv Gandhi and the Tamil Tiger conflicts. Particular emphasis is placed on the last 200 years, while the key theme of shifting regional identities underpins its insights in to the social, economic and spiritual past of the region.

Genres: History, Nonfiction, India, Indian Literature

384 pages, Paperback

First published June 13, 2002

Reviews

[Elaine · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book covers a lot of material! I knew little about South Asia and found this a bit too detailed for an introduction to the region. I wish the maps were better; the map of contemporary political divisions doesn't even show Karachi. Pondicherry was misspelled as Pondichery at least twice.

[Cody · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a rather broad, though good, treatment of South Asian history from the beginning of recorded history into the modern day. Ludden provides a very broad description of mostly political history for ancient and classical society, though does offer a more detailed description of medieval society. However, the book mostly focuses on colonial and post-colonial developments, as this takes up about half of the book. Ludden's focus is primarily on the general changes over the course of these various periods, which is helpful. Definitely a good starting place for learning South Asian history, so long as you keep in mind that this is only meant as a broad, general treatment of things.

[Arnab Chaudhuri · Rating 3 out of 5]

Its not about the political ones that we have read for so long. David had shown how the political events had aided in changing the course of the society

[Darya Silman · Rating 2 out of 5]

I couldn't finish it...