Eighteen Fifty-Seven
By Surendra Nath Sen
Published by Ministry Of Information & Broadcasting: Government Of India 1958 1st Edition
Features:
Fine Binding In Leather - Foldout Maps
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Surendra Nath Sen's Eighteen Fifty‑Seven offers a sweeping, Indian‑centered narrative of the 1857 uprising, tracing its origins from the simmering discontent among sepoys, peasants, and princely states to the full‑blown rebellion that rattled British rule. Sen begins by outlining the economic hardships imposed by the East India Company—land revenue reforms, the annexation policy, and the infamous greased cartridge controversy—that ignited widespread resentment. He then moves through the key flashpoints: the mutiny at Meerut, the violent outbreaks in Delhi, Kanpur, and Lucknow, and the coordinated uprisings in Awadh and the Punjab frontier. Throughout, Sen emphasizes the diverse motivations of participants, portraying the revolt not merely as a military mutiny but as a complex social movement that blended anti‑colonial sentiment, religious fervour, and regional aspirations.
In the latter part of the book Sen examines the British response, detailing the brutal reprisals, the re‑organisation of colonial administration, and the eventual consolidation of Crown rule. He highlights the roles of prominent Indian leaders—such as Bahadur Shah II, Rani Lakshmibai, and Tatya Tope—while also giving voice to lesser‑known participants whose stories illuminate the grassroots nature of the struggle. Concluding with an assessment of the rebellion's legacy, Sen argues that the events of 1857 sowed the seeds of Indian nationalism, reshaping the political landscape and setting the stage for the later freedom movement."
20th century binding in very good condition. Pages very clean and well presented aside from wrinkling to first couple of pages. Genuine 1st Edition 1st Printing in luxury binding. All maps present. No loose pages. A stunning 1st edition copy in very good condition overall. Please study photos to further understand condition.
