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A History of India
Listening Length: 18 hours and 22 minutes
Over 5,000 years, India has been home to a rich tapestry of peoples and cultures. Two of the world's great religions - Hinduism and Buddhism - have their origins in South Asia, and the lands east of the Indus River have long been a central hub for trade, migration, and cultural exchange. Today the subcontinent contains 20 percent of the world's population and is a thriving center for global business, making this region one of most significant economic powerhouses in the world.
Go inside this thrilling story with A History of India, a breathtaking survey of South Asia from its earliest societies along the Indus and Ganges rivers through the modern challenges of the 21st century. These 36 sweeping lectures enable you to understand the epic scope of the subcontinent's history. Perhaps the most important facet of this history is how diverse the region truly is. Roughly the size of continental Europe, India - along with its neighbors, Pakistan and Bangladesh - contains a myriad of ethnic groups, socioeconomic classes, religions, and cultural mores.
In this wide-ranging investigation, you'll:
Meet the many religious communities that have coexisted in India, including Hindus, Jains, Buddhists, Muslims, Christians, Jews, and Zoroastrians
Delve into the legacies of the Mauryan Empire, the Mughal Empire, and British colonialism - three of the few governments that ever unified the subcontinent
Witness the fight for independence from European powers and the partition of the region into the countries of India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh in the 20th century
Consider the challenges and opportunities faced by this area today, from expanding urbanization to the vast need for energy sources to the ongoing heated debates about national identity
Professor Fisher, who has traveled and taught in South Asia for decades, reveals this complex narrative with skill and compelling insights.
1. Introduction to India 32 min
2. The Mughal Empire in 18th-Century India 32 min
3. Indian and British Economic Interests 31 min
4. British Expansion in India (1757-1820) 28 min
5. Knowing the Country: British Orientalism 30 min
6. Race, Gender, and Culture (1750-1850) 30 min
7. The Age of Reform (1830-1850) 30 min
8. The Great Uprising (1857-1858) 27 min
9. Economics and Society under the Raj 29 min
10. Caste and Tribal Identity under Colonialism 29 min
11. The Nationalization of Hinduism (1870-1900) 32 min
12. Indian Muslim Identity and Colonial Rule 31 min
13. The Late-19th-Century British Raj 29 min
14. Princely States and Royalist Relationships 29 min
15. Indian Nationalism and the Freedom Struggle 31 min
16. The Great War and Its Impact on India 29 min
17. Gandhi's Moral-Political Philosophy 29 min
18. The Noncooperation Movement 31 min
19. Indian Muslim Politics between the Wars 29 min
20. The Civil Disobedience Campaign 32 min
21. Britain and Its Empire in the 1940s 30 min
22. The Raj on Its Knees (1945-1947) 30 min
23. A Split India: Negotiating Independence 30 min
24. Reflections on Postcolonial India 29 min
Over 5,000 years, India has been home to a rich tapestry of peoples and cultures. Two of the world's great religions - Hinduism and Buddhism - have their origins in South Asia, and the lands east of the Indus River have long been a central hub for trade, migration, and cultural exchange. Today the subcontinent contains 20 percent of the world's population and is a thriving center for global business, making this region one of most significant economic powerhouses in the world.
Go inside this thrilling story with A History of India, a breathtaking survey of South Asia from its earliest societies along the Indus and Ganges rivers through the modern challenges of the 21st century. These 36 sweeping lectures enable you to understand the epic scope of the subcontinent's history. Perhaps the most important facet of this history is how diverse the region truly is. Roughly the size of continental Europe, India - along with its neighbors, Pakistan and Bangladesh - contains a myriad of ethnic groups, socioeconomic classes, religions, and cultural mores.
In this wide-ranging investigation, you'll:
Meet the many religious communities that have coexisted in India, including Hindus, Jains, Buddhists, Muslims, Christians, Jews, and Zoroastrians
Delve into the legacies of the Mauryan Empire, the Mughal Empire, and British colonialism - three of the few governments that ever unified the subcontinent
Witness the fight for independence from European powers and the partition of the region into the countries of India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh in the 20th century
Consider the challenges and opportunities faced by this area today, from expanding urbanization to the vast need for energy sources to the ongoing heated debates about national identity
Professor Fisher, who has traveled and taught in South Asia for decades, reveals this complex narrative with skill and compelling insights.
1. Introduction to India 32 min
2. The Mughal Empire in 18th-Century India 32 min
3. Indian and British Economic Interests 31 min
4. British Expansion in India (1757-1820) 28 min
5. Knowing the Country: British Orientalism 30 min
6. Race, Gender, and Culture (1750-1850) 30 min
7. The Age of Reform (1830-1850) 30 min
8. The Great Uprising (1857-1858) 27 min
9. Economics and Society under the Raj 29 min
10. Caste and Tribal Identity under Colonialism 29 min
11. The Nationalization of Hinduism (1870-1900) 32 min
12. Indian Muslim Identity and Colonial Rule 31 min
13. The Late-19th-Century British Raj 29 min
14. Princely States and Royalist Relationships 29 min
15. Indian Nationalism and the Freedom Struggle 31 min
16. The Great War and Its Impact on India 29 min
17. Gandhi's Moral-Political Philosophy 29 min
18. The Noncooperation Movement 31 min
19. Indian Muslim Politics between the Wars 29 min
20. The Civil Disobedience Campaign 32 min
21. Britain and Its Empire in the 1940s 30 min
22. The Raj on Its Knees (1945-1947) 30 min
23. A Split India: Negotiating Independence 30 min
24. Reflections on Postcolonial India 29 min
19 pages, Audible Audio
First published May 12, 2016
35 people are currently reading
304 people want to read
About the author
Michael H. Fisher
18 books17 followersDr. Michael H. Fisher is the Robert S. Danforth Professor of History at Oberlin College, where he offers a range of courses on the history of South Asia, the environmental history of the Indian subcontinent, Pakistan, Mahatma Gandhi, and early travel narratives about India. He earned his M.A. and his Ph.D. in History with a concentration on South Asia from the University of Chicago. He also holds a B.A. in English from Trinity College.
Professor Fisher has published 12 books and more than 50 articles on aspects of Indian history. His special interests include the interactions between Indians and Europeans, both in India and in Europe, from the 16th century onward. His books include biographies of Indian settlers and visitors to Britain and histories of the British Empire as it originated and developed in India. His most recent book is A Short History of the Mughal Empire.
Since 1971, Professor Fisher has lived, researched, and taught for long periods in India, with briefer trips to Pakistan and Bangladesh. He has been a visiting faculty fellow at the University of Delhi, University of Hyderabad, University of Allahabad, Jawaharlal Nehru University in Delhi, and the University of Dhaka in Bangladesh. Professor Fisher has also served on the major committees of the American Historical Association and the American Institute of Indian Studies, among others.
Professor Fisher has published 12 books and more than 50 articles on aspects of Indian history. His special interests include the interactions between Indians and Europeans, both in India and in Europe, from the 16th century onward. His books include biographies of Indian settlers and visitors to Britain and histories of the British Empire as it originated and developed in India. His most recent book is A Short History of the Mughal Empire.
Since 1971, Professor Fisher has lived, researched, and taught for long periods in India, with briefer trips to Pakistan and Bangladesh. He has been a visiting faculty fellow at the University of Delhi, University of Hyderabad, University of Allahabad, Jawaharlal Nehru University in Delhi, and the University of Dhaka in Bangladesh. Professor Fisher has also served on the major committees of the American Historical Association and the American Institute of Indian Studies, among others.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 62 reviews
December 28, 2021
I think that India proved to be too vast and complicated for a single Great Courses Text. Fisher gives a good try starting in prehistory and going to the present day, but I always felt like he was jumping around and rarely making connections between his topics. The first sixteen lectures are a highlights reel of events before the sixteenth century. Then he slows down a little, but I still felt like we were leapfrogging through history trying to cover just a smattering of events in the last five hundred years. The best part of the course focused on the twentieth century—especially when Fisher looks at India and Pakistan after they win their freedom from Britain. If nothing else, Fisher shows just how complex the subcontinent and its peoples truly are.
If you liked this review, you can find more at www.gilbertstack.com/reviews.
If you liked this review, you can find more at www.gilbertstack.com/reviews.
February 10, 2020
It's possible I'm being a bit generous here simply because I'm a little overwhelmed. There is a lot, and I mean a LOT, of in formation packed into these 18 hours of lectures. Still, it is barely an introduction to the topic. To go more in depth would have required exponentially more lectures. Honestly, I could probably listen to this a couple more times and still not extract everything from it.
The biggest takeaway to me was a reconfirmation of just how limited is the American education system's coverage of global, especially non-western, history.
The biggest takeaway to me was a reconfirmation of just how limited is the American education system's coverage of global, especially non-western, history.
October 23, 2025
Sooo boring. (Not the history, this lecture series). Extremely dry but comprehensive, I guess.
March 24, 2023
A good, fairly unbiased summary of India's history.
India's history spans many millennia, spanned across multiple theatres (South/North/West), with active engagements with civilizations from Mesopotamia to China to Greece. it is an overwhelming undertaking to summarise it in one relatively concise form. But the author does manage to do that, and does that very well! And that while keeping it informative as well as very engaging.
As an Indian listener, I was happy to see the author being free of the Western bias that is rampant in much of Western academia. it does not mean that they endorse the Eastern view (e.g. a right-leaning nationalist view of history) - they just call out the different interpretations of history where needed and back it with data.
recent history of the subcontinent (last 70 yrs) has also been covered very well.
India's history spans many millennia, spanned across multiple theatres (South/North/West), with active engagements with civilizations from Mesopotamia to China to Greece. it is an overwhelming undertaking to summarise it in one relatively concise form. But the author does manage to do that, and does that very well! And that while keeping it informative as well as very engaging.
As an Indian listener, I was happy to see the author being free of the Western bias that is rampant in much of Western academia. it does not mean that they endorse the Eastern view (e.g. a right-leaning nationalist view of history) - they just call out the different interpretations of history where needed and back it with data.
recent history of the subcontinent (last 70 yrs) has also been covered very well.
January 15, 2018
I generally liked this summary of Indian history. But I was slightly annoyed at how the word hypergamy comes up quite often in the early parts, and the lecturer feels the need to define it every time. Once was enough.
May 31, 2021
Excellent course that offered very insightful information that made me re-examine many things that I'd either taken for granted or never considered about a country I was born and retain significant ties to. Included topics such as the Adivasi people and the geography/climate that I would not have expected to find in a typical history text but still found very fascinating. Highly recommend, especially to those of Indian heritage or anyone interested in the subcontinent.
March 30, 2025
An excellent course to get you up to speed with the history of this vast subcontinent.
November 21, 2017
This was an engaging and informative lecture series. Although I have studied the religions of India and know something of its ancient history (mainly the Indus valley civilization and the Mauryan Empire, discussed in other lecture series I have listened), it had been one of the blank spots in my overall understanding of world history. So I was excited to find this at the library. It was fun listening to it, and listening fits best in my schedule, but I do sort of wish this were a DVD series; I am not at all familiar with the geography of India and visuals would have helped a great deal in making sense of it all. And this is one of the newer sorts that doesn't come with proper guide book but rather a PDF guide on a CD; how is one supposed to consult that while listening to a lecture series on the go?
Anyway, this lecture series fulfilled my hopes for it by giving me an overview of Indian history and culture. I think it is a bit unusual that so much of the series is focused on culture rather than descriptions of events, but I tend to be more interested in the big concept history rather than minutia so I enjoyed it. Though I think it could also be interesting to have a bit more of the minutia, and also a bit more detail of the history of India prior to major foreign incursions, though I get the impression that much of that may be lost.
I noticed a few reviews of this that commented on the professor's voice. I actually thought he was engaging and easy to follow and understand, though that may be partly because the lecture series I listened to before was by such a poor lecturer.
Anyway, this lecture series fulfilled my hopes for it by giving me an overview of Indian history and culture. I think it is a bit unusual that so much of the series is focused on culture rather than descriptions of events, but I tend to be more interested in the big concept history rather than minutia so I enjoyed it. Though I think it could also be interesting to have a bit more of the minutia, and also a bit more detail of the history of India prior to major foreign incursions, though I get the impression that much of that may be lost.
I noticed a few reviews of this that commented on the professor's voice. I actually thought he was engaging and easy to follow and understand, though that may be partly because the lecture series I listened to before was by such a poor lecturer.
February 7, 2017
Dieses Hörbuch umfasst 24 Vorlesungen zur Indischen Geschichte. Es gibt in der ersten Lektion eine kurze Einführung in die gesellschaftlichen, kulturellen und religiösen Hintergründe bevor dann die Geschichte ab dem 18. Jhd. Und dem moslemischem Ughal Empire behandelt wird. Die Ereignisse vor dem 18. Jhdt. finden in dieser Vorlesungsreihe keine Beachtung, hier geht es hauptsächlich um die Zeit unter der Besatzung der East India Company und später der britischen Krone.
Die Themen werden vor allem unter ökonomischen Gesichtspunkten behandelt und wie Freihandel und Konkurrenzkapitalismus sich auf Indien auswirkten. Im Prinzip findet man in den 200 Jahren unter den Briten in Indien bereits all das, was heute Europa zerreißt. Die Textilwirtschaft wurde von billigen englischen Produkten kaputt gemacht. Indien wurde dem freien Markt, ohne Regulation, zum Fraß vorgeworfen. Es setzte eine Stadtflucht ein, Handwerker wurden zu Bauern, weil sie ihre Jobs durch billige Importe verloren. Getreide wurde auf dem Weltmarkt zu höheren Preisen verkauft als im Inland, was zu Hungersnöten und ethnischen Spannungen führte. Das Resultat waren Aufstände und die Teilung des Landes.
Professor Fisher greift Themen immer wieder auf und beleuchtet sie unter verschiedenen Aspekten. Seine etwas monotone Stimme macht es jedoch teilweise schwierig konzentriert zu folgen. Insgesamt jedoch eine gute und fundierte Einführung in die Indische Kolonialgeschichte, die einem bei einmaligen Hören einen soliden, groben Überblick über logische und geschichtliche Zusammenhänge gibt.
Die Themen werden vor allem unter ökonomischen Gesichtspunkten behandelt und wie Freihandel und Konkurrenzkapitalismus sich auf Indien auswirkten. Im Prinzip findet man in den 200 Jahren unter den Briten in Indien bereits all das, was heute Europa zerreißt. Die Textilwirtschaft wurde von billigen englischen Produkten kaputt gemacht. Indien wurde dem freien Markt, ohne Regulation, zum Fraß vorgeworfen. Es setzte eine Stadtflucht ein, Handwerker wurden zu Bauern, weil sie ihre Jobs durch billige Importe verloren. Getreide wurde auf dem Weltmarkt zu höheren Preisen verkauft als im Inland, was zu Hungersnöten und ethnischen Spannungen führte. Das Resultat waren Aufstände und die Teilung des Landes.
Professor Fisher greift Themen immer wieder auf und beleuchtet sie unter verschiedenen Aspekten. Seine etwas monotone Stimme macht es jedoch teilweise schwierig konzentriert zu folgen. Insgesamt jedoch eine gute und fundierte Einführung in die Indische Kolonialgeschichte, die einem bei einmaligen Hören einen soliden, groben Überblick über logische und geschichtliche Zusammenhänge gibt.
September 13, 2023
A broad overview of Indian history.
It starts with introductions to the geography of the subcontinent, architectural records, indigenous populations and early civilisations.
It ends in the 21st century having covered India's independence and the politically turbulent years following this for India, Pakistan and Bangladesh.
I particularly enjoyed the chapters on epic literature (Ramayana, Mahabharata, Bhagavad-Gita), Fischer provides synopses of these which I found useful context - though others may find boring as they are still quite lengthy synopses. I'm not sure why the earlier Vedic texts are not given the same attention.
A large middle section covers the rise and fall of various empires including the Muslim conquests. This section I found very dry, it comes across as somewhat of a list of successions, repeated fracturing and unification through conquest and this could have been either summarised much quicker while still getting the main points across or made more relevant and interesting with additional commentary about the lasting cultural impact of the various conquests/empires/fracturing. Instead, the time spent covering the details of this period felt perfunctory.
The colonial and modern period is given a quick overview, relatively brief at the cost of being rather superficial.
Overall it came across as very much an introductory and educational text. Impartiality appears to have been prioritised over analysis, originality and discussion. As a result it was not a particularly fascinating read in its own right.
It starts with introductions to the geography of the subcontinent, architectural records, indigenous populations and early civilisations.
It ends in the 21st century having covered India's independence and the politically turbulent years following this for India, Pakistan and Bangladesh.
I particularly enjoyed the chapters on epic literature (Ramayana, Mahabharata, Bhagavad-Gita), Fischer provides synopses of these which I found useful context - though others may find boring as they are still quite lengthy synopses. I'm not sure why the earlier Vedic texts are not given the same attention.
A large middle section covers the rise and fall of various empires including the Muslim conquests. This section I found very dry, it comes across as somewhat of a list of successions, repeated fracturing and unification through conquest and this could have been either summarised much quicker while still getting the main points across or made more relevant and interesting with additional commentary about the lasting cultural impact of the various conquests/empires/fracturing. Instead, the time spent covering the details of this period felt perfunctory.
The colonial and modern period is given a quick overview, relatively brief at the cost of being rather superficial.
Overall it came across as very much an introductory and educational text. Impartiality appears to have been prioritised over analysis, originality and discussion. As a result it was not a particularly fascinating read in its own right.
January 11, 2017
For work and friendships I have had the opportunity to meet many cities of the beautiful country that is India. But in many occasions I was astonished by the movements and history, of which I only know parts. However today the course: "A History of India" published by The Great Courses narrated by Professor Michael H. Fisher.
Many things I learned from this book, for example
- The value of the two thousand-year-old books: The Ramayana and the Mahabharata (they knew that the latter is the longest book ever written, twice the size of the Bible).
- The Bhagavad Gita I read so carefully is only part of the Mahabharata.
- There are three main races that were established in India, and from which all the Indians of today are derived.
- Bangladesh and Pakistan were part of India, very interesting the history of how they separated and what are today these countries.
- The power of Indira and her family.
- The history of religious groups: Inductors, Muslims, Parsis, Christians, Jews and others who settled in India.
- Conquered India and Portuguese and British influence.
What is certain is that India is a very diverse, enigmatic and beautiful country. You have to know it, it's a different experience.
Many things I learned from this book, for example
- The value of the two thousand-year-old books: The Ramayana and the Mahabharata (they knew that the latter is the longest book ever written, twice the size of the Bible).
- The Bhagavad Gita I read so carefully is only part of the Mahabharata.
- There are three main races that were established in India, and from which all the Indians of today are derived.
- Bangladesh and Pakistan were part of India, very interesting the history of how they separated and what are today these countries.
- The power of Indira and her family.
- The history of religious groups: Inductors, Muslims, Parsis, Christians, Jews and others who settled in India.
- Conquered India and Portuguese and British influence.
What is certain is that India is a very diverse, enigmatic and beautiful country. You have to know it, it's a different experience.
February 12, 2026
"A History of India" by Michael H. Fisher, produced as part of the Great Courses series, offers an expansive overview of the Indian subcontinent from antiquity to the twenty-first century. The course adopts a broad geographical lens, examining not only present-day India but also the wider "greater India" region, including Pakistan and Bangladesh, while occasionally surveying surrounding areas to provide essential context. This regional framing usefully underscores the historical interconnectedness of South Asia and South East Asia, even as modern political borders divide them.
The course organizes the vast sweep of Indian history into three major periods. The first, Ancient India, traces early human habitation and the gradual emergence of complex societies. During this era, diverse kingdoms rose and fell across the subcontinent. It was also a formative period for religious thought, witnessing the development of Hinduism and Buddhism, traditions that would profoundly shape not only India but much of Asia. Political fragmentation characterized much of this era.
The second period centers on the rise and dominance of Muslim rule, particularly under the Mughals, who established themselves in India beginning in the twelfth century. With Persian cultural roots, the Mughal rulers brought a greater degree of political unity to much of South Asia. Their governance helped consolidate Islamic traditions in the region and fostered significant trade and cultural connections between India and the Middle East. Under Mughal rule, the subcontinent experienced both administrative consolidation and artistic flourishing, leaving a legacy still visible in India’s cultural landscape.
The third major period addresses European colonialism, beginning with the Portuguese and Dutch and culminating in British rule. Colonialism fundamentally transformed India’s economic structure, reorienting it into a supplier of raw materials for European markets. At the same time, colonial administration introduced modern political and bureaucratic systems. Western education cultivated a new class of Indian intellectuals who articulated the ideals of nationalism and self-determination. Following World War II, these forces culminated in independence and the 1947 partition of British India into India and Pakistan, with Bangladesh emerging later in 1971. Though these newly independent democratic states have faced considerable internal and external challenges, they have endured and developed along distinct paths.
A central theme of the course is the argument that Indian history has been shaped by geography and environmental conditions. This theme is introduced at both the beginning and conclusion of the course. However, while the geographical framework is compelling, not every portion of the narrative connects back to it. In practice, the direction of history often appears driven more by the values, ambitions, and decisions of rulers than by deeper structural or environmental forces. This emphasis may reflect the limitations of the available source material, much of which consists of literary works and official records focused on political elites. Nevertheless, the course’s attention to geography and natural factors provides a refreshing perspective often underemphasized in traditional political histories.
Another major emphasis of the course is the extraordinary diversity of India： religious, cultural, linguistic, and political. India is portrayed as something akin to a "European Union in one country," a vast and varied society held together within a single political framework. This diversity has long driven both development and tension. Notably, social and religious distinctions were not merely historical or cultural phenomena; they were codified and institutionalized in social structures long before colonial rule and were later reinforced within colonial administrative systems. As a result, religious and communal boundaries became particularly rigid and politically consequential, contributing to the profound challenges faced during and after independence. At the same time, diversity serves as a powerful resource, fueling creativity, adaptability, and innovation. Viewing Indian history through the lens of diversity provides a productive framework for understanding both its past and its contemporary dynamics.
The course excels at rendering an extraordinarily long and complex history accessible without oversimplifying it. Its discussion of recent political and social developments is especially valuable, as many historical surveys stop well short of the present day. Although the lectures do not delve deeply into theological analysis or literary traditions, they nonetheless provide an effective and concise introduction to one of the world’s most populous nations and home to one of the world’s most historically enduring and culturally continuous civilizations.
One area in which the course might have gone further is in examining India’s impact on the broader world. Hinduism and Buddhism profoundly influenced South and Southeast Asia, while trade and religious exchange connected India to China and beyond. Exploring India’s "cultural output" in greater depth would add valuable context to its historical development and illuminate its role as a generator of ideas and traditions, not merely a recipient of external forces.
Relatedly, while the course pays considerable attention to external environments and influences, it offers little discussion of China, India’s vast neighbor. Even if China’s direct influence on Indian history was limited compared to that of Central Asian or European powers, this relative absence itself would merit exploration. A brief comparative or analytical discussion could further enrich the narrative.
Overall, "A History of India" stands as an excellent introduction to the history of the Indian subcontinent. It is both accessible and comprehensive, balancing breadth with clarity. For those seeking a structured, engaging overview of India’s long and intricate past, the course provides a strong and thoughtful foundation.
The course organizes the vast sweep of Indian history into three major periods. The first, Ancient India, traces early human habitation and the gradual emergence of complex societies. During this era, diverse kingdoms rose and fell across the subcontinent. It was also a formative period for religious thought, witnessing the development of Hinduism and Buddhism, traditions that would profoundly shape not only India but much of Asia. Political fragmentation characterized much of this era.
The second period centers on the rise and dominance of Muslim rule, particularly under the Mughals, who established themselves in India beginning in the twelfth century. With Persian cultural roots, the Mughal rulers brought a greater degree of political unity to much of South Asia. Their governance helped consolidate Islamic traditions in the region and fostered significant trade and cultural connections between India and the Middle East. Under Mughal rule, the subcontinent experienced both administrative consolidation and artistic flourishing, leaving a legacy still visible in India’s cultural landscape.
The third major period addresses European colonialism, beginning with the Portuguese and Dutch and culminating in British rule. Colonialism fundamentally transformed India’s economic structure, reorienting it into a supplier of raw materials for European markets. At the same time, colonial administration introduced modern political and bureaucratic systems. Western education cultivated a new class of Indian intellectuals who articulated the ideals of nationalism and self-determination. Following World War II, these forces culminated in independence and the 1947 partition of British India into India and Pakistan, with Bangladesh emerging later in 1971. Though these newly independent democratic states have faced considerable internal and external challenges, they have endured and developed along distinct paths.
A central theme of the course is the argument that Indian history has been shaped by geography and environmental conditions. This theme is introduced at both the beginning and conclusion of the course. However, while the geographical framework is compelling, not every portion of the narrative connects back to it. In practice, the direction of history often appears driven more by the values, ambitions, and decisions of rulers than by deeper structural or environmental forces. This emphasis may reflect the limitations of the available source material, much of which consists of literary works and official records focused on political elites. Nevertheless, the course’s attention to geography and natural factors provides a refreshing perspective often underemphasized in traditional political histories.
Another major emphasis of the course is the extraordinary diversity of India： religious, cultural, linguistic, and political. India is portrayed as something akin to a "European Union in one country," a vast and varied society held together within a single political framework. This diversity has long driven both development and tension. Notably, social and religious distinctions were not merely historical or cultural phenomena; they were codified and institutionalized in social structures long before colonial rule and were later reinforced within colonial administrative systems. As a result, religious and communal boundaries became particularly rigid and politically consequential, contributing to the profound challenges faced during and after independence. At the same time, diversity serves as a powerful resource, fueling creativity, adaptability, and innovation. Viewing Indian history through the lens of diversity provides a productive framework for understanding both its past and its contemporary dynamics.
The course excels at rendering an extraordinarily long and complex history accessible without oversimplifying it. Its discussion of recent political and social developments is especially valuable, as many historical surveys stop well short of the present day. Although the lectures do not delve deeply into theological analysis or literary traditions, they nonetheless provide an effective and concise introduction to one of the world’s most populous nations and home to one of the world’s most historically enduring and culturally continuous civilizations.
One area in which the course might have gone further is in examining India’s impact on the broader world. Hinduism and Buddhism profoundly influenced South and Southeast Asia, while trade and religious exchange connected India to China and beyond. Exploring India’s "cultural output" in greater depth would add valuable context to its historical development and illuminate its role as a generator of ideas and traditions, not merely a recipient of external forces.
Relatedly, while the course pays considerable attention to external environments and influences, it offers little discussion of China, India’s vast neighbor. Even if China’s direct influence on Indian history was limited compared to that of Central Asian or European powers, this relative absence itself would merit exploration. A brief comparative or analytical discussion could further enrich the narrative.
Overall, "A History of India" stands as an excellent introduction to the history of the Indian subcontinent. It is both accessible and comprehensive, balancing breadth with clarity. For those seeking a structured, engaging overview of India’s long and intricate past, the course provides a strong and thoughtful foundation.
July 22, 2024
The book is organized in 36 chapters (or lectures) starting from the earliest history of the Indian subcontinent all the way of to modern India (and Pakistan and Bangladesh). The authors approaches it from a largely academic perspective but also includes a bit of lived experience. I found the first chapters rather dry but thoroughly enjoyed the last five to ten chapters. So much to learn about the young country which is also the world largest democracy and has more than 15% of the world's population.
February 20, 2025
A decent, albeit a very broad, history of the India. It did something unique, that I have seen only few other history books do consistently, and that is give us emic and etic perspectives for every major period. Indian history is a mix of local lore and facts backed up evidence and it helps to seperate the two and analyze how one informs the other.
March 6, 2017
A History of India
Author(s): Michael Fisher
Genre: History
Imprint: The Great Courses
CD - unabridged
Audio (19 CDs)
Product Number: GC0821
Released: Oct 12, 2016
ISBN: #9781501938351
Narrator/s: Michael Fisher
Publisher: Recorded Books, Inc. by arrangement with The Teaching Company
I have had some experience with The Great Courses by The Teaching Company over the last ten or so years. I have had two DVD courses and several audio only ones. The majority of the course work fine in audio only with some exceptions like a course on the great works of art. I have not only learned a great deal from each course but have truly enjoyed them.
A History of India was offered as a review copy from Recorded Books. India, as a country, a culture and a people, has long fascinated since I received a copy of The Far Pavilions by M. M. Kaye for my 16th birthday. I have not really had the opportunity to experience any non-fiction looks at India. A History of India was an excellent learning experience and achieved my goal of familiarizing myself with all of India, not just the historical fiction India.
The course is taught by Michael H. Fisher, Ph.D., a professor of History at Oberlin College. Professor Fisher spent time living in India, with shorter periods in Pakistan and Bangladesh.He has a true love for the subject matter and it comes through in his lectures. Since this is an audio course, I would like to mention that the sound and production quality are excellent. Professor Fisher has a pleasant speaking voice. His pronunciations of foreign terms are clear and distinct so the listener can truly catch the word. When the same word comes up later, it is not an unknown term. He really does an excellent job.
The course consists of thirty-six lessons of thirty minutes in audio format. Also included is a course guide in a pdf format. The course guide consists of a summary of each lecture, including some maps or photographs. The lecture summaries are rather more complete than normal summaries. Each lecture summary ends with a suggested reading list for those who want to explore more of the material covered in that lecture.
What I really liked about the course was the completeness of the material covered. The first lecture, “Earliest History of the Indian Subcontinent” covers India’s geographic history. One of the things my children learned early in their education was that history occurs where it does for a reason. There were mountains that formed a barrier. There was a river that allowed a civilization to rise. There were weather conditions that changed the land and how it could be used. All of these are very important factors in why history happens where it does. The first lecture helps the listener understand how the geography of the Indian subcontinent shaped what was to come.
The lectures continue with the migration of different peoples into the different areas of India. Literature and religion are not neglected but have several lectures dedicated to them. Each Indian empire is discussed. Lecture twenty-three begins the exploration of the influence of European Countries. The European conquest, rebellions and eventual Indian independence are covered next. The last two lectures examine the modernization of India beginning in the 1960’s and the 21st Century from the perspective of South Asia (India, Pakistan, Bangladesh and the surrounding nations). It really is a complete course on the history of India.
There are several ways to enjoy or utilize this course. The lectures can be listened to as time allows without reference to the course guide. The listener can read the lecture notes from the course guide and then listen to the accompanying lecture. This allows the listener to have familiarized themselves with the material similar to doing the required reading before a college class. The reader could also listen to the lectures and refer to the course guide only as they feel necessary. There is no wrong way to utilize the course.
I took thirty days to complete the course. I listened to one lecture per day, two if time allowed. I did read over the course guide for each lecture before listening to the lecture. This method required an hour at the most of my time per lecture. I chose to do it in this manner to make sure that I had a full understanding of what I was hearing. I am planning on listening to the course again in a more informal manner, probably starting in April. I learned quite a bit. I highly recommend A History of India in audio format. While driving, working at home or the office, the listener could enjoy an educational field trip to a country, culture, and people unique in our world.
Author(s): Michael Fisher
Genre: History
Imprint: The Great Courses
CD - unabridged
Audio (19 CDs)
Product Number: GC0821
Released: Oct 12, 2016
ISBN: #9781501938351
Narrator/s: Michael Fisher
Publisher: Recorded Books, Inc. by arrangement with The Teaching Company
I have had some experience with The Great Courses by The Teaching Company over the last ten or so years. I have had two DVD courses and several audio only ones. The majority of the course work fine in audio only with some exceptions like a course on the great works of art. I have not only learned a great deal from each course but have truly enjoyed them.
A History of India was offered as a review copy from Recorded Books. India, as a country, a culture and a people, has long fascinated since I received a copy of The Far Pavilions by M. M. Kaye for my 16th birthday. I have not really had the opportunity to experience any non-fiction looks at India. A History of India was an excellent learning experience and achieved my goal of familiarizing myself with all of India, not just the historical fiction India.
The course is taught by Michael H. Fisher, Ph.D., a professor of History at Oberlin College. Professor Fisher spent time living in India, with shorter periods in Pakistan and Bangladesh.He has a true love for the subject matter and it comes through in his lectures. Since this is an audio course, I would like to mention that the sound and production quality are excellent. Professor Fisher has a pleasant speaking voice. His pronunciations of foreign terms are clear and distinct so the listener can truly catch the word. When the same word comes up later, it is not an unknown term. He really does an excellent job.
The course consists of thirty-six lessons of thirty minutes in audio format. Also included is a course guide in a pdf format. The course guide consists of a summary of each lecture, including some maps or photographs. The lecture summaries are rather more complete than normal summaries. Each lecture summary ends with a suggested reading list for those who want to explore more of the material covered in that lecture.
What I really liked about the course was the completeness of the material covered. The first lecture, “Earliest History of the Indian Subcontinent” covers India’s geographic history. One of the things my children learned early in their education was that history occurs where it does for a reason. There were mountains that formed a barrier. There was a river that allowed a civilization to rise. There were weather conditions that changed the land and how it could be used. All of these are very important factors in why history happens where it does. The first lecture helps the listener understand how the geography of the Indian subcontinent shaped what was to come.
The lectures continue with the migration of different peoples into the different areas of India. Literature and religion are not neglected but have several lectures dedicated to them. Each Indian empire is discussed. Lecture twenty-three begins the exploration of the influence of European Countries. The European conquest, rebellions and eventual Indian independence are covered next. The last two lectures examine the modernization of India beginning in the 1960’s and the 21st Century from the perspective of South Asia (India, Pakistan, Bangladesh and the surrounding nations). It really is a complete course on the history of India.
There are several ways to enjoy or utilize this course. The lectures can be listened to as time allows without reference to the course guide. The listener can read the lecture notes from the course guide and then listen to the accompanying lecture. This allows the listener to have familiarized themselves with the material similar to doing the required reading before a college class. The reader could also listen to the lectures and refer to the course guide only as they feel necessary. There is no wrong way to utilize the course.
I took thirty days to complete the course. I listened to one lecture per day, two if time allowed. I did read over the course guide for each lecture before listening to the lecture. This method required an hour at the most of my time per lecture. I chose to do it in this manner to make sure that I had a full understanding of what I was hearing. I am planning on listening to the course again in a more informal manner, probably starting in April. I learned quite a bit. I highly recommend A History of India in audio format. While driving, working at home or the office, the listener could enjoy an educational field trip to a country, culture, and people unique in our world.
July 17, 2023
3. 5 stars. This 36 lecture series on India by Professor Fisher is mostly well done, perhaps it tries to cover too much territory to be really great though. To go all the way from ancient Indian civilizations to modern day India in just 36 lectures is a tough task. Dr. Fisher gives it a good attempt though. He is a clear spoken lecturer, he is easy to understand and does not have any distracting speech patterns. I listened to these lectures as audio, so I'm not sure what the visuals would have been like.
The first third of this lecture series was kind of boring. The last third of the lecture series was the best section. It starts out with a lot of attention to the Adivasi people and then goes into the civilizations at Harappa and Mohenjo-Daro. Dr. Fisher talks about the rise of Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism. Unfortunately, this section was a bit of a chore to get through. Too often, I struggled to stay interested. I am interested in this time period, but this presentation seemed dry. I have listened to Professor Grant Hardy's lecture series on "Great Minds of the Eastern Intellectual Tradition" where he talks about ancient India, and he did a better job of bringing this time period and peoples to life.
I had not previously learned about Princess Mairavati, so that lecture was interesting. Dr. Fisher goes into great detail about the coming of the British, the formation of the East India Company, and the pivotal events of 1857. Like mentioned before, the best part of this course is the last third. When the events bring us to the 20th century, Dr. Fisher seems to be more comfortable and shines when discussing the rise of Indian nationalism, Mahatma Gandhi, and the partitioning of India into the nations of Pakistan and what becomes Bangladesh. Dr. Fisher does a particularly good job of discussing the modern events of the last 50 years in Indian history. I would re-listen to these lectures again in the future, as I feel they are mostly well done and perhaps it is more about my wandering attention span.
The first third of this lecture series was kind of boring. The last third of the lecture series was the best section. It starts out with a lot of attention to the Adivasi people and then goes into the civilizations at Harappa and Mohenjo-Daro. Dr. Fisher talks about the rise of Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism. Unfortunately, this section was a bit of a chore to get through. Too often, I struggled to stay interested. I am interested in this time period, but this presentation seemed dry. I have listened to Professor Grant Hardy's lecture series on "Great Minds of the Eastern Intellectual Tradition" where he talks about ancient India, and he did a better job of bringing this time period and peoples to life.
I had not previously learned about Princess Mairavati, so that lecture was interesting. Dr. Fisher goes into great detail about the coming of the British, the formation of the East India Company, and the pivotal events of 1857. Like mentioned before, the best part of this course is the last third. When the events bring us to the 20th century, Dr. Fisher seems to be more comfortable and shines when discussing the rise of Indian nationalism, Mahatma Gandhi, and the partitioning of India into the nations of Pakistan and what becomes Bangladesh. Dr. Fisher does a particularly good job of discussing the modern events of the last 50 years in Indian history. I would re-listen to these lectures again in the future, as I feel they are mostly well done and perhaps it is more about my wandering attention span.
March 10, 2020
In two words: Fabulous summary!
I love history. It's my favorite subject and I really wanted a book to dive into India's glorious past in a summarized form to give me a wholesome idea of how we built our country. Since I picked this up on Audible, there was no going back. The author has touched upon every important era of our past, from the Adivasi ages to the current Narendra Modi era.
The topics taken up from every period are very informative, crisp and to the point. He doesn't beat about the bush, but rather gives us a very unbiased information about India and its might. It isn't a comprehensive book, as in the author touches upon every topic , discusses it in brief and about its affect on Indians(South Asia) and then moves on. He knows that and so he also gives us few references(different books) here and there to get a clearer and more detailed idea about these topics which he categorizes as supplementary reads.
I especially liked the structure that he provided with the text. He kept separate chapters on Ramayana and Mahabharata, detailing on its importance and relevance in Indian culture that was to come after and still persists.
Time and again, he emphasized on issues from the past and how they have affected our present thought process and national issues. He has given importance to all the regions in South Asia, from North to East to South Indian rulers, among others. He has gone on length to speak about the evolution of languages in different cultures and their political leaders in every era. Exposure and growth of different religions has been an important part of his narrative as well.
All in all, it's has been a splendid read, very concise and very interesting. I will go back to his references and delve deeper into the intricate history of our nation and I thank him for curating this book! Definitely recommending this ahead.
I love history. It's my favorite subject and I really wanted a book to dive into India's glorious past in a summarized form to give me a wholesome idea of how we built our country. Since I picked this up on Audible, there was no going back. The author has touched upon every important era of our past, from the Adivasi ages to the current Narendra Modi era.
The topics taken up from every period are very informative, crisp and to the point. He doesn't beat about the bush, but rather gives us a very unbiased information about India and its might. It isn't a comprehensive book, as in the author touches upon every topic , discusses it in brief and about its affect on Indians(South Asia) and then moves on. He knows that and so he also gives us few references(different books) here and there to get a clearer and more detailed idea about these topics which he categorizes as supplementary reads.
I especially liked the structure that he provided with the text. He kept separate chapters on Ramayana and Mahabharata, detailing on its importance and relevance in Indian culture that was to come after and still persists.
Time and again, he emphasized on issues from the past and how they have affected our present thought process and national issues. He has given importance to all the regions in South Asia, from North to East to South Indian rulers, among others. He has gone on length to speak about the evolution of languages in different cultures and their political leaders in every era. Exposure and growth of different religions has been an important part of his narrative as well.
All in all, it's has been a splendid read, very concise and very interesting. I will go back to his references and delve deeper into the intricate history of our nation and I thank him for curating this book! Definitely recommending this ahead.
December 31, 2018
I sort of wanted to give this a 3-star rating, but I think the course is probably the best one can do in the "survey history" genre so I give it +1. Overall it does an excellent job covering all the major topics one should know about in India's [shorthand for India/Pakistan/Bangladesh or British India] history. Many of the lectures are quite good, & notably he manages to cover good detail in areas such as the concept of jati versus varna in the caste system & many of the less-than-heroic aspects of Gandhi's life. Fisher has remarkable clarity in lectures, one example of which being his (good) tendency to quickly redefine academic concepts needed in discussion (e.g. edic/emic histories) which produces a grounding effect on the work.
Some areas could have been covered better. There wasn't much connecting the jati / varna difference to caste today where the differences no longer exactly apply. And it does not discuss Gandhi's penchant for sleeping near underage girls as part of temptation resistance. Microfinance [ala the Grameen Bank] is discussed very briefly as a cure for poverty, despite robust economic studies showing it has no average impact.
Furthermore, I suppose I ultimately became unhappy with the idea of a survey course in general. So many topics were rushed through. Jinnah's life gets only a few minutes of time & Pakistan's history in general is pushed through in maybe thirty minutes. But then again, what could he have done in an 18 hour audiobook course, considering there were very few things he could reasonably have cut?
Some areas could have been covered better. There wasn't much connecting the jati / varna difference to caste today where the differences no longer exactly apply. And it does not discuss Gandhi's penchant for sleeping near underage girls as part of temptation resistance. Microfinance [ala the Grameen Bank] is discussed very briefly as a cure for poverty, despite robust economic studies showing it has no average impact.
Furthermore, I suppose I ultimately became unhappy with the idea of a survey course in general. So many topics were rushed through. Jinnah's life gets only a few minutes of time & Pakistan's history in general is pushed through in maybe thirty minutes. But then again, what could he have done in an 18 hour audiobook course, considering there were very few things he could reasonably have cut?
March 9, 2025
Predictably, A History of India is an ambitious attempt to condense the vast and intricate history of the Indian subcontinent into a single volume. Expectedly, it falls short. For a topic so expansive, no single book or course could ever do justice. This is especially true for readers who are already well-acquainted with the subject, as this reviewer happens to be. For such readers, there was never going to be much scope for surprises at the broader topic level—after all, entire libraries could be built on any one of the themes or periods discussed in this book.
The real interest in listening to the lectures lies in understanding what someone unfamiliar with the subject might glean from them and similar works. In this regard, the course does provide a useful summary or “gist” of India’s historical trajectory, offering a starting point for those who wish to learn about the subcontinent's rich and diverse past. The book covers major themes like India’s religious plurality, colonialism, and post-independence developments in a way that is accessible to newcomers.
That said, the vast scope means that many topics are touched upon only briefly, often without the depth or nuance they deserve. In some ways, the book becomes an anthology of key historical periods and figures. There is little room for exploration of various perspectives, let alone engagement with contentious topics.
Overall, a decent introductory resource at best.
The real interest in listening to the lectures lies in understanding what someone unfamiliar with the subject might glean from them and similar works. In this regard, the course does provide a useful summary or “gist” of India’s historical trajectory, offering a starting point for those who wish to learn about the subcontinent's rich and diverse past. The book covers major themes like India’s religious plurality, colonialism, and post-independence developments in a way that is accessible to newcomers.
That said, the vast scope means that many topics are touched upon only briefly, often without the depth or nuance they deserve. In some ways, the book becomes an anthology of key historical periods and figures. There is little room for exploration of various perspectives, let alone engagement with contentious topics.
Overall, a decent introductory resource at best.
June 26, 2021
While certainly a serviceable history that does gets better as it comes closer to current times, I can’t say that I found it particularly engaging. Fisher seems to have an aversion to using dates that results in the reader getting more of an impressionistic idea of Indian history than what would be expected from a history book. Similarly, Fisher decision to devote more than a fair portion of the beginning of this work to scrutinizing the Vedas and other ancient writings for plausible clues to a past not grounded on ruins or surviving artifacts was quite honestly tiring. However, it was indicative of where he focuses the work. The amount of time devoted to sociological aspects such as minutely explaining the caste system and religious practices exceeds that devoted to ruling dynasties and foreign conquests for almost the entire first half. This balance starts to shift back to political history as Europeans make an entrance. The last century of the history of the Indian subcontinent, including the birth of the new nations of India, Pakistan and Bangladesh, was actually quite informative as were his explanations of the current, as of 2015, political landscape in these countries.
November 17, 2024
I hadn't read a book on the History of India proper before, altought there is a extensive list of books one could pick on this subject, I was looking for a audiobook I could listen to (mostly on my way back and forth from college) and something that gave a more general overview of the entire indian sub-continent overall, and "A History of India" by Michael H. Fisher was good at that. This is not a "Heavy" book, is more like having a long wikipedia page being read to you, it keeps a neutral pvo, altough I had the suspicion that the author certainly had most of his interest in the Mughal Empire (and the cover itself is the taj mahal, and not a hindu temple as I think would be more fitting) and the colonial era, and indeed, judging by Michael H. Fisher's other books that seems to be the case.
I on the other hand I'm more interested in the pre-islamic era of Bharat, but on the whole it's hard to critizied it since it is exactely what one would expect: a nice, brief and uncontroversial summary of india's history from it's beggining to the modern times, and that's about what you get.
I on the other hand I'm more interested in the pre-islamic era of Bharat, but on the whole it's hard to critizied it since it is exactely what one would expect: a nice, brief and uncontroversial summary of india's history from it's beggining to the modern times, and that's about what you get.
December 13, 2019
Very nice set of lectures that taught me a lot about the subcontinent. It is more of an overview than an indepth analysis and summarizes all the major eras of Indian history and also goes into the details of the current geopolitical situation of the region including Pakistan and Bangladesh. It was a good introduction to me for the history of one of the most fascinating and beautiful places and taught me many interesting facts that helped me understand my homeland's past. The era of Indra Gandhi was for example a completely new chapter for me that sounded like a movie plot by the end or Babur or Shivaji or many other characters were all larger than life. The author tries to be fair to all sides and I think he does a good job in explaining complex historical situations in a simple and concise way. The introduction to Adiwasi communities that are traditionally forest dwellers was also new and fascinating thing to learn.
August 22, 2019
A vast and easy to follow overview that touched on many of the subjects and details I was hoping to learn about. Fisher mostly does a good job providing the necessary context for understanding and comprehension without getting bogged down in detracting details. There are some subjects that I'd like to study more in depth after hearing about them in this presentation, but all I was hoping for with this lecture series was an extensive summary of India's history and that's what I got.
Fisher's lecture style isn't my favorite. His speech patterns, rhythms, and pronunciations were a bit rough in spots, but not enough to keep me from appreciating and enjoying the information.
For a basic but extensive overview of India's political, social, and geographical history, I highly recommend this lecture series.
Fisher's lecture style isn't my favorite. His speech patterns, rhythms, and pronunciations were a bit rough in spots, but not enough to keep me from appreciating and enjoying the information.
For a basic but extensive overview of India's political, social, and geographical history, I highly recommend this lecture series.
July 10, 2017
Boy, was this a long book. 2.5 stars. I was hoping to read it all with Ashley before our trip to India back in February but we failed. Only got through about half of it. In a way that was good because being there in India gave me greater context so I could understand it differently. But I'm still so unfamiliar with all of that world and history that I didn't get much from it. I'd love to have a college class where we study a section each week and the teacher taught and expounded on the sections. That would be great. But reading it on my own was just too tough for me. I tried. No one can say I didn't try.
January 23, 2023
I agree with some of the other reviewers that more in-depth descriptions of events would have been interesting - but this was an 18 disc course already. If I had not listened to it, I would not have realized how much more there is to know about it. This was a great stepping-stone into Indian history and culture, and it made me want to seek out more information. It did not get 5 stars, however, because I felt that some of the lectures were too focused on dry recitation of facts - this empire invaded here in this year, and there in that year. Overall, though, it gave me a sense that there is a lot more of interest to learn from South Asian history and culture.
January 21, 2024
(Audiobook) Generally a solid overview of the history of India/South Asia. It has to cover South Asia, given that most of the modern countries surrounding India (like Bangladesh and Pakistan) are very modern creations. The work covers the earlier days of the region, the mythology of Hinduism and the evolution of the political and social structures. There is emphasis on the foreign influences, from the Islamic/Central Asian empires to European engagements. Overall, an effective starting ground for getting insight into the region. Probably will want to amplify with other sources, but you can start here.
October 7, 2018
I have long been interested in history and as I have aged that interest has become more specific. I like to read books that give a barebones view of what shaped that particular subject, and then dive into any specific subtopic that catches my interest. For example, this book presented the dominant religions of India, their beginnings, the reason each was appealing to the population, and how each influenced the country and each other. It did not detail every prophet and what he ate for breakfast. I wanted an overview of how India came to be and I was very happy with this book.
August 21, 2019
Great summary of the history of India. Even though I'm an Indian and know half of it, I have to agree that I didn't understand several others before reading this book. It's good to listen the details in complete chronological order. There are certain areas that are very high level and very summarised but I totally agree that you can't put a history of a country in one book. I learnt so many new things about my country and it eventually motivates me to seek other books to know more in detail.
May 29, 2020
This series is a nice overview of Indian History. It is primarily a cultural progression description of the region than an events based one. It lacks in details for middle ages (Post Mauryan to Mamluk Dynasty). Also I found details about southern Indian empires very limited. But overall I would recommend this series to anyone wants to have an overview before dwelling into greater details of Indian History. Author's narration is superb. Going to revise it once more.
March 13, 2021
Listening to the lectures made me appreciate my cultural heritage. Sometimes in western education you are not taught a lot of history of the east, though I knew most of the events discussed in the lecture I could still gain insights how events impacted the greater world at the time and the subsequent domino effects. (Like the partition of India). I marvel sometimes on how young India is, my grandparents were born in a British colony and saw a birth of a nation first hand.
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