As it enters its sixtieth year of independence, India stands on the threshold of
superpower status. Yet India is strikingly different from all other global
colossi. While it is the world's most populous democracy and enjoys the benefits
of its internationally competitive high-tech and software industries, India also
contends with extremes of poverty, inequality, and political and religious
violence. This accessible and vividly written book presents a new interpretation
of India's history, focusing particular attention on the impact of British
imperialism on Independent India. Maria Misra begins with the rebellion against
the British in 1857 and tracks the country's advance to the present day. India's
extremes persist, the