Synopses & Reviews
In a challenge to the widespread belief that poverty and poor living standards have been characteristic of India for centuries, Prasannan Parthasarathi demonstrates that, until the late eighteenth century, laboring groups in South India were in a powerful position, receiving incomes well above subsistence. It was with the rise of colonial rule, the author maintains, that the decline in their economic fortunes was initiated. This is a powerful revisionist statement on the role of Britain in India that will interest students of the region, and economic and colonial historians.
Synopsis
Contrary to popular belief that poverty has been characteristic of India for centuries, the author demonstrates that, it was not until the rise of colonial rule that the decline in the economic fortunes of the labouring communities was initiated. The book represents a powerful revisionist statement on Britain in India.
Synopsis
The decline of the economic fortunes of the Indian labouring classes under the British.
Table of Contents
Introduction; 1. Weavers and merchants, 1720-60; 2. Agriculture and cotton textiles; 3. Weaver distress, 1765-1800; 4. Weaver protest; 5. Laborers, kings and colonialism.