This course surveys the history of South Asia, or the Indian subcontinent, from the earliest periods of Indian history to 1857. The purpose of this course is three-fold:

– to provide the necessary background knowledge to understand the later processes of colonisation and state formation in South Asia;

– to survey the historical foundations and development of religious traditions of South Asia in order to appreciate the place of those religions in South Asia today;

– to introduce changing conceptions of the past of South Asia and the major scholarly debates on issues in pre-colonial South Asian history today.

The course begins with the physical environment of South Asia, then goes on to examine Indus culture and developments associated with the Hindu tradition, Jainism, Buddhism, and Sikhism, the arrival of Islam, the establishment of the Mughal empire, the arrival of the European powers (Portuguese, Dutch and English) and how a trading company took control of large parts of the subcontinent. As well as tracing the major historical and political events, the course will also explore the social and cultural developments that accompanied and contributed to the development of South Asia.

On successfully completing the requirements of this course, students will be able to:

1. Critically evaluate accounts of South Asian history up until 1857

2. Explain developments in South Asian society and culture up to 1857 with an understanding of theoretical approaches to South Asian historical evidence

3. Formulate a research problem and select appropriate sources to address that problem

4. Communicate research results in research paper that applies theoretical knowledge in the area.

5. Demonstrate application of knowledge by preparing and presenting on a selected topic, choosing readings and leading a class discussion on the topic.

Item A Weekly critical analysis of readings for that week 20%

Item B Present on a selected topic, lead discussion, and submit a reflective statement on the presentation 30%

Item C Research plan with annotated bibliography (2000 words) 15%

Item D Research paper (5000 words) 35%

The workload will be

2 X 1 hour lectures

1 X 1 hour tutorial (except for weeks 1 and 13)

7 hours independent study

Incompatible with ASIA2270

Bachelors degree.