The Transition to a Colonial Economy

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Challenging the notion that poverty has always defined India, the author argues that laboring groups in South India enjoyed relative economic stability until the late 18th century. The onset of colonial rule marked a significant decline in their fortunes, transforming their economic status and social conditions. Through a revisionist lens, the book explores the impact of British colonialism on these communities, asserting that the resultant poverty and low wages were unprecedented in pre-colonial times. This work contributes significantly to understanding the region's economic history and colonial studies.