The Case for India

From a Pulitzer Prize–winning historian and author of The Story of Civilization, a comprehensive account of India’s struggles under British rule.

When groundbreaking historian Will Durant traveled to India as part of his research for his landmark The Story of Civilization, he was confronted by the devastating effects of British rule on the subcontinent. Moved by the starvation and poverty he witnessed, Durant put aside the book he was working on to make a passionate appeal for Indian independence.

The Case for India describes the economic plunder of India by Great Britain through unfair trade practices and excessive taxes. Durant revealed how India was forced to bear the weight of Britain’s global expenses and how the social and political strife between Hindus and Muslims was exacerbated by British rule. He also explores the profound teachings of Gandhi and the rich cultural history of India, arguing that the ancient traditions of India will be lost under British occupation. A powerful indictment of colonialism, The Case for India served as an important polemic during the Indian Independence movement.