European Adventurers in North India: 1750-1803

This book explores how European, particularly French, adventurers shaped early modern India, highlighting their contributions to social, political, economic, and intellectual life in the 18th and 19th centuries. It examines how French adventurers brought Western science and ideas to a polity in flux, modernized armies of pre-modern states, and opened up markets for European consumers. It also highlights intellectual pursuits of French figures such as Anquetil Duperron, Polier, Gentil, De Boigne, and Perron, who engaged with Indian literature.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 226 pages
Publication date: 31 March 2021
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This captivating book delves into the profound impact of European, particularly French, adventurers on the early modern India. It sheds light on the significant contributions of these daring explorers to the social, political, economic, and intellectual life of north India during the 18th and 19th centuries. The author meticulously examines how the French adventurers played a pivotal role in introducing Western science and ideas to a society in constant flux. Through in-depth analysis, the author highlights the roles of individuals such as René Madec, Sombre, De Boigne, Perron, Gentil, Canaple, Delamarr, Sonon, and Pedrose, who made indispensable contributions to modernizing the armies of pre-modern states in South Asia. Furthermore, the volume underscores how the commercial networks developed by these adventurers expanded markets in the heartlands of north India, offering European consumers a glimpse of the rich and diverse culture. Additionally, it brings to the forefront the intellectual pursuits of prominent French figures, such as Anquetil Duperron, Polier, Gentil, De Boigne, and Perron, whose engagement with Indian literature opened a new chapter in the study of the Occident.

This book, brimming with French, English, and translated Persian archival resources, is a treasure trove for scholars and researchers interested in colonial history, early modern history, military history, and South Asian studies. Its rich content and insightful analysis provide a deep understanding of the complex interplay between Europe, India, and the broader global context of the 18th and 19th centuries.

Weight: 445g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367785734