The authors examine the major political, economic, social and cultural forces which have shaped the history of the Indian subcontinent. Providing an authoritative and detailed account, Hermann Kulke and Dietmar Rothermund emphasise and analyse the structural pattern of Indian history. Revised throughout, the fourth edition of this highly accessible book brings the history of India up to date to consider, for example, the recent developments in the Kashmir conflict. Along with a new Glossary, this new edition also includes an expanded discussion of the Mughal Empire as well as the economic history of India.