The Sole Spokesman
- 334 pages
- 12 hours of reading
'Ayesha Jalal's book is an important scholarly account of ... the partition of India in 1947.' American Historical Review
Ayesha Jalal is a Pakistani-American historian whose work critically examines post-colonial politics and Muslim identity in South Asia. She challenges the necessity of the partition of India and Pakistan, reframing it as a human tragedy rather than a political inevitability. Her scholarship presents key figures as pragmatists motivated by securing greater rights for Muslims. Jalal's research delves into the complex historical forces that shape identity and political landscapes.




'Ayesha Jalal's book is an important scholarly account of ... the partition of India in 1947.' American Historical Review
Jointly written by two leading Indian and Pakistani historians, Modern South Asia offers a rare depth of historical understanding of the politics, cultures and economies that shape the lives of more than a fifth of humanity. After sketching the pre-modern history of the sub-continent, the book concentrates on the last three centuries.This new second edition has been updated throughout to take account of recent historical research. It includes an expanded section on post-independence with a completely new chapter on the period from 1991 to the present and a chapter on the last millennium in subcontinental history. There is a new chronology of key events.
Exploring the enlightened perspectives of modern Muslim philosophers, artists, and intellectuals, this book highlights their connections to a rich intellectual tradition that transcends Western liberalism. It delves into the historical context of Islam and South Asia, making it a compelling read for those interested in the evolution of thought within these cultures. The work emphasizes the unique contributions of these figures to contemporary discourse, offering insights into their impact on society and intellectual history.
This fifth edition offers a comprehensive analysis of modern South Asian history, incorporating the latest research and scholarship. It explores significant developments across the subcontinent's diverse social, economic, and political landscape, providing critical interpretations and debates that reflect the complexities of the region's past.