The Politics of India since Independence (The New Cambridge History of India)

By Paul R. Brass

Book Overview

The Politics of India since Independence provides a comprehensive study of the major political, cultural, and economic changes in India since gaining independence. Paul Brass focuses on the consequences of the centralising drives of the national leadership to create a strong, unified nation, and a dynamic economy, all of which have been put into jeopardy in recent years by increased inter-caste conflicts, the rise of militant Hindu nationalism, and the worst communal massacres since Independence. In the second edition of his book, the author takes account of recent events to ask whether the country can find the right leadership to restore a political and communal balance in state and society.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0521459702
• ISBN13: 9780521459709
• Release Date: October 1994
• Publisher: Cambridge University Press
• Length: 428 Pages
• Weight: 1.35 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.9" x 6.0" x 8.9"

Customer Reviews

Impressive in Scope and Merit

Paul Brass has produced an excellent academic text that is ideal for use in upper level college courses. "The Politics of India since Independence" will acquaint the reader with the parliamentary style government of India. It sketches in the challenges and accomplishment of a few of its major leaders such as Jawaharlal Nehru, Indira Gandhi. Rajiv Gandhi, and V.P. Singh (the second edition leaves off in the early 90s; one shortcoming), as well as some of its major issues: linguistic and Hindu-Muslim tension, caste conflict, and the agrarian problem. Readers will find a wealth of information contained herein, and teachers will find it an invaluable aid in the classroom. The text does not go into much detail on India-Pakistan relations, and might comment more on untouchability, but should be regarded as a highly praiseworthy achievement for its scope and detail. Admittedly the text can be dry and not the most readable, but it has great merits as an academic work.