The Age of Imperial Unity: The History and Culture of the Indian People (Volum II)

Book Details

• Author: R. C. Majumdar
• Publisher: Bharatiya Vidya Bhawan
• Language: English
• Edition: 2023
• ISBN: 9788172765873
• Pages: 800 (91 B/W Illustrations)
• Cover: Hardcover
• Dimensions: 24 cm x 16.5 cm
• Weight: 1.30 kg

About the Book

This volume, the second in the History and Culture of the Indian People series, is a critical exploration of India's early history, from the 6th century B.C. to the rise of powerful empires in the subcontinent. It is written by a team of over sixty renowned scholars, offering a comprehensive and up-to-date account of political, socio-economic, and cultural developments.

Key Themes:

1. Political History:

   • Begins with the general condition of North India in the 6th century B.C., then details the growth of the Magadhan empire and the Persian and Macedonian invasions.
   • Explores the various dynasties that shaped Indian history, such as the Mauryas, Sungas, Yavanas, Sakas, Pahlavas, Kushanas, Satavahanas, and others.
   • The Kaniska era, Vikrama, and Saka Samvat are analyzed in new contexts, offering fresh perspectives on old historical debates.

2. South India and Ceylon:

   • South India’s history and its relationship with Ceylon during this period are explored in great detail, highlighting the unique political and cultural dynamics of these regions.

3. India and the Western World:

   • The final chapters examine India’s interaction with the Western world, covering early cultural exchanges and colonial expansion.

4. Cultural and Artistic Achievements:

   • The volume is enriched with 39 plates that depict some of the best artistic specimens of the period, showcasing the remarkable achievements in art, architecture, and cultural heritage.

Contributors

This volume includes the contributions of prominent scholars such as:

• Dr. B.C. Law
• Dr. N. Dutt
• Dr. R.K. Mookerjee
• Dr. J. N. Banerjea
• Dr. H.C. Raychaudhuri
• Dr. A.D. Pusalkar
• Dr. D.C. Sarkar
• Dr. A.M. Ghatage
• Dr. R.C. Majumdar
• Dr. V.M. Apte
• Dr. S.K. Aiyangar
• Dr. T.M.P. Mahadevan
• Dr. M.A. Mehendale
• Prof. H.D. Bhattacharyya
• Prof. H.D. Velankar
• Prof. U.C. Bhattacharjee
• Dr. K.R.S. Iyengar
• Prof. S.K. Saraswati
• Dr. Beni Prasad
• Dr. N.R. Ray
• Dr. U.N. Ghoshal

Highlights

• Political Overview: Discusses the rise of Indian dynasties and their interplay with foreign invasions, shaping the political map of early India.
• Cultural Insights: Focuses on the cultural growth across North and South India and the impact of interactions with the Western World.
• Art and Architecture: Includes 91 B/W illustrations showcasing key artistic developments and heritage.
• Key Historical Debates: Explores significant historical issues such as the Kaniska era and Saka Samvat with fresh perspectives.