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Last Mughal
592 pages, 2008
history
999 booksIn this evocative study of the fall of the Mughal Empire and the beginning of the Raj, award-winning historian William Dalrymple uses previously undiscovered sources to investigate a pivotal moment in history.
The last Mughal emperor, Zafar, came to the throne when the political power of the Mughals was already in steep decline. Nonetheless, Zafar - who was a mystic, poet, and calligrapher of great accomplishment - created a court of unparalleled brilliance; this gave rise to perhaps the greatest literary renaissance in modern Indian history. All the while, however, British power was progressively taking over his own.
When in May 1857 he was declared leader of an uprising against them by some members of his court (who had been won over by their offers), Zafar found himself powerless to resist what he strongly suspected would be a doomed action on his part. Four months later (after much bloodshed on both sides), Delhi fell to British troops with catastrophic results for those involved in this conflict .
In 'Last Mughal', William Dalrymple takes us on a journey to explore the downfall of the Mughal Empire. He paints a vivid picture of the political, social, and cultural factors that led to its collapse. It's a great read if you're interested in history and want to understand the complexities of this period.
The book provides a deep insight into the life of Bahadur Shah Zafar, the last Mughal emperor. Dalrymple does a fantastic job of bringing this historical figure to life, showing us his strengths, weaknesses, and the challenges he faced. It's like taking a step back in time and seeing history unfold before your eyes.
One of the key aspects that the book explores is the impact of British colonial rule on India. It's a fascinating look into how the British policies and actions affected the Mughal Empire and the Indian subcontinent as a whole. If you're interested in colonial history, this book is a must-read.
Dalrymple also highlights the cultural exchange that took place during the Mughal era. He shows how different cultures influenced each other, leading to a rich and diverse cultural landscape. It's a reminder of the importance of cultural diversity and the role it plays in shaping societies.
The 'Last Mughal' is a testament to the power of detailed research. Dalrymple has meticulously researched the period, using a wealth of primary sources to tell the story. It's a great example of how thorough research can bring history to life and make it accessible to everyone.
Quotes 4
Dalrymple's 'Last Mughal' is a riveting narrative that brings to life the twilight of a bygone era. It's a must-read for anyone interested in the history of the Indian subcontinent.
Amitav Ghosh - Novelist, EssayistDalrymple's 'Last Mughal' is a masterful and poignant account of the end of an era. It's a book that will stay with you long after you've turned the last page.
Ramachandra Guha - Historian, BiographerDalrymple's 'Last Mughal' is a compelling and deeply moving narrative of the fall of an empire. It's a book that is both enlightening and heartbreaking.
Shashi Tharoor - Politician, DiplomatDalrymple's 'Last Mughal' is a powerful and evocative tale of the last days of the Mughal Empire. It's a book that is both haunting and unforgettable.
Salman Rushdie - Novelist, Essayist