James Mill, a Scottish historian and philosopher, is known for his monumental work on British India. Despite never visiting the subcontinent himself, he was the first to divide Indian history into Hindu, Muslim, and British periods. His writing, a classic of colonial self-congratulation, vehemently denounces Indian culture while extolling the British civilizing mission. This tripartite division of Indian history, though highly influential, is viewed critically in contemporary scholarship.
Exploring foundational political concepts, this collection features Mill's influential Essay on Government alongside essays addressing rights protection, the significance of education, the role of a free press, the secret ballot, and government punishment for rights violations. These writings showcase Mill's contributions to modern political thought and his advocacy for individual liberties and democratic principles.