Anarchy: The Relentless Rise of the East India Company

In 1765, the East India Company defeated the young Mughal emperor and forced him to establish a new administration in his richest provinces. This new regime saw the East India Company transform itself from an international trading corporation into an aggressive colonial power in the guise of a multinational business.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 576 pages
Publication date: 03 September 2020
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

The East India Company, a multinational corporation that emerged as an aggressive colonial power in the guise of an international trading corporation, is the subject of William Dalrymple's captivating book. In August 1765, the company defeated the young Mughal emperor and forced him to establish a new administration in his richest provinces. Run by English merchants who collected taxes using a ruthless private army, this new regime saw the East India Company transform itself from an international trading corporation into something much more unusual.

Dalrymple's book offers a timely cautionary tale of the first global corporate power, shedding light on the complex web of alliances, rivalries, and power struggles that shaped the company's history. He delves into the personal lives of the company's founders, directors, and employees, providing a humanizing perspective on the often-mythical figures who played pivotal roles in the company's growth and expansion.

The book also explores the impact of the East India Company on India and the world. From its establishment in the 17th century to its dissolution in the 19th century, the company ruled over a vast territory and exerted a profound influence on the culture, economy, and politics of the region. Dalrymple highlights the company's role in the colonization of India, the exploitation of its resources, and the perpetuation of social and economic inequality.

In addition to its historical significance, Dalrymple's book is also a masterpiece of storytelling. He weaves together a rich tapestry of historical events, cultural traditions, and personal anecdotes, creating a narrative that is both engaging and informative. His writing is elegant and accessible, making it accessible to a wide range of readers, from history enthusiasts to general readers.

Overall, "The East India Company: A History" is a must-read for anyone interested in the history of global corporations, colonialism, and the complex relationship between the East and the West. William Dalrymple's masterful storytelling and insightful analysis make this book a valuable contribution to the field of history.

The East India Company, a multinational corporation that emerged as an aggressive colonial power in the guise of an international trading corporation, is the subject of William Dalrymple's captivating book. In August 1765, the company defeated the young Mughal emperor and forced him to establish a new administration in his richest provinces. Run by English merchants who collected taxes using a ruthless private army, this new regime saw the East India Company transform itself from an international trading corporation into something much more unusual.

Dalrymple's book offers a timely cautionary tale of the first global corporate power, shedding light on the complex web of alliances, rivalries, and power struggles that shaped the company's history. He delves into the personal lives of the company's founders, directors, and employees, providing a humanizing perspective on the often-mythical figures who played pivotal roles in the company's growth and expansion.

The book also explores the impact of the East India Company on India and the world. From its establishment in the 17th century to its dissolution in the 19th century, the company ruled over a vast territory and exerted a profound influence on the culture, economy, and politics of the region. Dalrymple highlights the company's role in the colonization of India, the exploitation of its resources, and the perpetuation of social and economic inequality.

In addition to its historical significance, Dalrymple's book is also a masterpiece of storytelling. He weaves together a rich tapestry of historical events, cultural traditions, and personal anecdotes, creating a narrative that is both engaging and informative. His writing is elegant and accessible, making it accessible to a wide range of readers, from history enthusiasts to general readers.

Overall, "The East India Company: A History" is a must-read for anyone interested in the history of global corporations, colonialism, and the complex relationship between the East and the West. William Dalrymple's masterful storytelling and insightful analysis make this book a valuable contribution to the field of history.

Weight: 540g
Dimension: 130 x 197 x 42 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781408864395