This accessible, narrative account follows Indian history over its 9,000 year trajectory, from the ancient Harappans to today, emphasizing events and issues of the 20th and 21st centuries. • Completely updates the original, top-selling volume and adds information about issues, people, and events post-2002 • Covers the entire history of India with particular attention to the formative events of the 20th century and the economic transformation that has taken place since 1991 • Helps readers appreciate the sheer size of India's current population, its ever-increasing economic importance, and its strategic significance • Presents information in a clear, accessible style appropriate for readers who have little or no previous knowledge about India • Draws on the latest scholarly studies of Indian history