Inglorious empire

In this book, Shashi Tharoor provides a detailed and incisive reassessment of British colonialism in India.

He argues that Britain's rise was built on the plunder and exploitation of India, leading to significant economic and social decline in the country.

Tharoor demolishes the myths of British imperialism as enlightened despotism, showing how every supposed imperial 'gift'—from railways to the rule of law—was designed to serve British interests.

He highlights the destruction of India's textile industry, the entrenchment of institutionalized racism, and the massive human suffering caused by British rule, including millions of deaths from starvation.

The book is a passionate and well-researched critique of colonialism and its lasting impact on India.