Books Like...
'The Anarchy: The East India Company, Corporate Violence, and the Pillage of an Empire' by William Dalrymple is a historical narrative detailing the rise of the East India Company and its takeover of the Indian subcontinent. The book covers events from the late 16th century to the early 19th century, focusing on the Company's exploitation of political disunity, military tactics, and economic conquest to amass wealth and power. Dalrymple's writing style is described as vivid and clear, presenting a sordid picture of corporate greed, political manipulation, and cultural clashes during this tumultuous period in history.
Dalrymple weaves together accounts of key figures such as Robert Clive, Warren Hastings, Tipu Sultan, and Shah Alam, shedding light on their roles in the Company's expansion and the downfall of the Mughal Empire. Through extensive research and use of historical documents, the author paints a detailed narrative of how a small group of merchants from a distant land managed to overthrow one of the wealthiest and most powerful empires of the time, leaving a legacy of corporate power and exploitation in their wake.
If you liked The Anarchy: The East India Company, Corporate Violence, and the Pillage of an Empire, here are the top 100 books to read next:
- #1
Save:'The Last Mughal' by William Dalrymple is a detailed and informative historical account of the Indian Mutiny of 1857, focusing on the last Mughal Emperor, Bahadur Shah Zafar II. The book vividly portrays the decline of the Mughal Empire, the uprising against British rule, and the tragic fate of Zafar. Dalrymple's writing style combines extensive research with a narrative that reads like a novel, offering a compelling insight into the cultural and political landscape of 19th-century India.
The book not only delves into the personal tragedy of Zafar but also explores the broader historical context of the Indian Mutiny, shedding light on the religious, social, and political tensions that led to this pivotal moment in Indian history. Through a mix of firsthand accounts, detailed descriptions, and nuanced analysis, Dalrymple paints a vivid picture of Delhi under siege, capturing the complexities of colonialism, rebellion, and the clash of ideologies.
With a salute from the cannon stationed on the ramparts, and an arc of fireworks and rockets fired aloft from the illuminated turrets of the Fort, the two gates opposite the great thoroughfare of Chan... Shashi Tharoor's 'Inglorious Empire: What the British Did to India' provides an expansive and detailed account of how India was plundered and impoverished by British rule. Tharoor highlights the destruction of India's thriving economy, the exploitation of Indian resources, and the devastating impact of British imperialism on Indian society. Through historical facts and narratives, the book debunks myths of benevolent British rule and exposes the true nature of colonialism in India, shedding light on the atrocities committed by the British Empire.
Tharoor's writing style is engaging and informative, offering a wealth of research and depth on the subject of British imperialism in India. The book presents a critical analysis of British colonial looting, discrimination, and exploitation, while also emphasizing the resilience and resistance of the Indian people against oppressive colonial forces. With a focus on historical evidence and detailed accounts, 'Inglorious Empire' challenges readers to confront the dark realities of colonial rule and its lasting impact on India.
1613–14 British East India Company sets up a factory in Masulipatnam and a trading post at Surat under William Hawkins. Sir Thomas Roe presents his credentials as ambassador of King James I to the Mug...- #3
Save:In "White Mughals," William Dalrymple tells the story of a tragic love affair between British Resident James A. Kirkpatrick and Khair un Nissa, a noble Persian Indian woman, set against the backdrop of 18th-century British India. The book provides a detailed account of the cultural integration and relationships between Europeans and Indians during this period, highlighting the complexities and nuances of colonial interactions. Dalrymple's writing style is described as captivating, immersive, and rich in historical detail, offering a unique insight into a lesser-known aspect of British history in India.
Outside, amid clouds of dust, squadrons of red-coated sepoys tramped along the hot, broad military road which led from the coast towards the cantonments at St Thomas’s Mount. Waiting in the shade of t... 'The Silk Roads: A New History of the World' by Peter Frankopan is a comprehensive narrative of world history focusing on the regions from the Mediterranean to the Himalayas, and across Central Asia to China. It presents a new perspective on historical events, emphasizing the connections and exchanges that took place along the Silk Roads over centuries. The author weaves a compelling account of the history of the Middle East and Central Asia, shedding light on trade, news, and religious views that traversed the vast tracts that were formerly part of the Soviet Union.
offers insights into the impact of historical events on current affairs and explores the shifting balance of power between Europe, Asia, and the United States. It delves into the complexities of interactions and influences across different regions, highlighting the significance of the Silk Roads in shaping civilizations and world politics. The narrative provides a unique perspective on world history, challenging the Euro-centric viewpoint and offering a broader understanding of global events.
From the beginning of time, the centre of Asia was where empires were made. The alluvial lowlands of Mesopotamia, fed by the Tigris and Euphrates, provided the basis for civilisation itself – for it w...Return of a King: The Battle for Afghanistan by William Dalrymple is a detailed historical account of the first Afghan War, focusing on the British invasion of Afghanistan in the 1840s. The book delves into the political and military disasters that led to the wiping out of a British army and the downfall of the puppet state they established in Afghanistan. Dalrymple's writing style is described as well-researched, detailed, and enlightening, offering insight into the complexities of Afghan history and culture.
There may be easier places to research a history book than Afghanistan and Pakistan, but few which provide more unexpected diversion in the course of hunting down texts, letters and manuscripts. On th...'An Era of Darkness: The British Empire in India' by Shashi Tharoor delves into the dark deeds and atrocities committed by the British Empire during its rule in India. Through detailed research and analysis, the author exposes how British colonialism hindered India's development, exploited its resources, disrupted local institutions, and caused widespread suffering among the Indian population. Tharoor discusses various aspects of British rule, including the impact on communities, economy, education, and governance, shedding light on the hidden truths of the colonial past.
Durant’s outrage – the conquest of India by a corporation – the East India Company – the deindustrialization of India – destruction of Indian textiles – extraction, taxes and diamonds – Clive and Plas...- #7
Save:'A Paradise Built in Hell' by Rebecca Solnit explores the idea that in times of disaster, ordinary people come together to form communities of hope and altruism, contrary to the popular belief of chaos and violence. Solnit delves into various historical disasters like the San Francisco Earthquake, Hurricane Katrina, and 9/11, highlighting the resilience and cooperation exhibited by individuals during these crises. Through a mix of research, personal stories, and sociological analysis, Solnit challenges the notion of elite panic and government mismanagement during disasters, emphasizing the positive aspects of human nature in times of crisis.
Solnit's writing style in 'A Paradise Built in Hell' has been described as a mix of theoretical analysis, personal narratives, and historical accounts. While some readers found the book to be a bit theoretical and opinion-driven, others appreciated the in-depth exploration of disasters and the grassroots efforts that emerge in response. offers a critical examination of how communities react to disasters, shedding light on the resilience and altruism that often arise in the face of adversity.
Who are you? Who are we? In times of crisis, these are life-and-death questions. Thousands of people survived Hurricane Katrina because grandsons or aunts or neighbors or complete strangers reached ou... John Keay's 'The Honourable Company: a History of the English East India Company' is a detailed account of how the British East India Company evolved from a trading enterprise to an influential arm of the British state. Keay meticulously charts the rise and fall of the Company over 213 years, showcasing its immense wealth and its intimate relationship with governing elites. The book delves into the complexities of the Company's commercial and political endeavors, shedding light on how it became the unofficial government of India by approximately 1650. Keay's narrative, although at times dense and detailed, paints a vivid picture of the lucrative yet often chaotic history of the Company.
Every overseas empire had to begin somewhere. A flag had to be raised, territory claimed, and settlement attempted. In the dimly perceived conduct of a small band of bedraggled pioneers, stiff with sc...'Many Are the Crimes: McCarthyism in America' by Ellen Schrecker delves into the era of McCarthyism, starting around 1940 and extending for almost two decades. The author explores the relentless search for Communists and leftists, the exaggerated security threats, and the unyielding suppression of political dissent during this period. Schrecker provides a wide-ranging look at the politically repressive atmosphere of McCarthyism, highlighting the societal-wide assault on American ideals of freedom of thought, speech, and assembly. chronicles the impact of McCarthyism on various aspects of American society, from Hollywood to labor unions, and examines the personal toll on individuals who were pursued and persecuted by investigative bodies.
The author's writing style is detailed and informative, offering a chronological narrative that roams freely across the era to describe specific aspects of the anti-communism movement. Schrecker provides insights into the broader implications of McCarthyism, beyond the mere factual details of investigating committees and legislation. sheds light on the role of the FBI in investigating claims of Communist membership and the tactics used to suppress political dissent, painting a vivid picture of the era of McCarthyism and its lasting impact on American society.
- #10
Save:'The Jewel in the Crown' by Paul Scott delves into the complex social, political, and cultural landscape of India during the dying days of British rule in 1942. The narrative revolves around the gang rape of an English girl, Daphne Manners, by a group of Indian men, intertwining personal relationships, political turmoil, and societal tensions. Through a mix of diary entries, letters, reports, and various narrative styles, the author creates a vivid portrayal of the era and the events leading up to and following the heinous crime.
The writing style of 'The Jewel in the Crown' is described as multi-layered, intricate, and evocative. Paul Scott employs different storytelling techniques such as first-person accounts, third-person narratives, letters, and journal entries to provide a comprehensive view of the fictional city of Mayapore, representing a microcosm of India as a whole. intricately weaves together personal stories with political events, creating a rich tapestry that captures the essence of the time period.
Imagine, then, a flat landscape, dark for the moment, but even so conveying to a girl running in the still deeper shadow cast by the wall of the Bibighar Gardens an idea of immensity, of distance, suc...
