Subject
India -- History -- 1526-1765 Books
Best books
Emperor of Hindustan Jahangir
The Tuzuk-i-Jahangiri: or, Memoirs of Jahangir (Volume 1 of 2)
"The Tuzuk-i-Jahangiri: or, Memoirs of Jahangir (Volume 1 of 2)" by Jahangir is an autobiography written in stages until 1622. Following his great-grandfather Babur's literary tradition, Mughal Emperor Jahangir chronicles the first nineteen years of his reign in Persian. Beyond political history, he shares intimate reflections on art, family, and governance—including his efforts to curb corruption among jagirdars and his admiration for his influential wife Nur Jahan. This magnificently illustrated manuscript offers a personal window into Mughal court life.
Emperor of Hindustan Jahangir
The Tuzuk-i-Jahangiri: or, Memoirs of Jahangir (Volume 2 of 2)
"The Tuzuk-i-Jahangiri: or, Memoirs of Jahangir (Volume 2 of 2)" by Jahangir is an autobiography written between 1605 and 1622. Following his great-grandfather Babur's example, Mughal Emperor Jahangir chronicles the first nineteen years of his reign in Persian. Beyond political history, he reflects on art, family life, and social issues, including his efforts to curb corruption among jagirdars and his deep trust in his wife Nur Jahan. The memoirs were later completed by court historians after Jahangir stopped writing in 1621.
G. B. (George Bruce) Malleson
Rulers of India: Akbar
"Rulers of India: Akbar" by G. B. Malleson is a historical account written in the late 19th century. The book explores the significant reign of Akbar, the grandson of the Mughal founder, Bábar, focusing on his efforts to consolidate power and establish a stable governance system in India. It delves into the political complexities, challenges, and achievements that defined Akbar's rule, portraying him as a transformative figure in Indian history. At the start of the book, the author outlines the historical context of the Mughal dynasty, discussing the foundation laid by Bábar and the challenges faced by his successor, Humáyún, who struggled to maintain their gains in India. Malleson introduces Akbar as a young boy who inherits an unstable empire and highlights the obstacles he initially faced due to the fragmented political landscape of India, marked by rival factions and a lack of cohesive administration. The narrative depicts the early difficulties in Akbar's reign, setting the stage for his eventual rise to power and reformative influence on governance, emphasizing themes of consolidation, governance, and the principles that would characterize his rule.
William Watts
Memoirs of the Revolution in Bengal, Anno Dom. 1757
"Memoirs of the Revolution in Bengal, Anno Dom. 1757" by Watts is a historical account written in the mid-18th century. This work details the political upheaval and conflicts involving the East India Company, the forces of a newly appointed Suba (governor) named Suraja Dowlat, and other European powers in Bengal. The book explores the critical events surrounding the rise of Meer Jaffeir to power, as well as the impact of British actions and policies during this tumultuous period. At the start of the memoirs, Watts outlines the conditions leading to the revolution, emphasizing the extraordinary circumstances that made this upheaval crucial for both the East India Company and British interests in the region. He introduces Suraja Dowlat, who, upon ascending to power, displays violent hostility towards the British, spurred by a mix of personal ambition and misguided counsel. The initial events depict Dowlat's aggressive actions against the English in Calcutta, his subsequent challenges, and the political machinations that ensue as various factions vie for power and influence in Bengal, setting the stage for a deeper exploration of colonial dynamics and conflicts in the unfolding narrative.
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