Plain Tales From The Raj

The Raj was, for two hundred years, the jewel in the British imperial crown. Although founded on military expansionism and undoubted exploitation, it developed over the centuries into what has been called 'benign autocracy' - the government of many by few, with the active collaboration of most Indians in recognition of a desire for the advancement of their country.

Charles Allen's classic oral history of the period that marked the end of British rule was first published a generation ago. Now reissued as the imperial century closes, this brilliantly insightful and bestselling collection of reminiscences illustrates the unique experience of British India: the sadness and luxury for some; the joy and deprivation for others.

“One of the most enjoyable books I have read ... It is an authentic record of the survivors of British India ... a book which takes on where Kipling left off - ANTONIA FRASERBoth a guide and an entertaining companion ... Humour, drama and regret fill its pages - MAIL ON SUNDAYA lovely and compelling account of what India meant to the British between 1900 and 1947 ... One of the best - THE TIMES”

One of the most enjoyable books I have read ... It is an authentic record of the survivors of British India ... a book which takes on where Kipling left off - ANTONIA FRASER

Both a guide and an entertaining companion ... Humour, drama and regret fill its pages - MAIL ON SUNDAY

A lovely and compelling account of what India meant to the British between 1900 and 1947 ... One of the best - THE TIMES

Charles Allen is an oral and military historian specialising in colonial matters. He is the author of several previous books and lives in north London.

The Raj was, for two hundred years, the jewel in the British imperial crown. Although founded on military expansionism and undoubted exploitation, it developed over the centuries into what has been called 'benign autocracy' - the government of many by few, with the active collaboration of most Indians in recognition of a desire for the advancement of their country.Charles Allen's classic oral history of the period that marked the end of British rule was first published a generation ago. Now reissued as the imperial century closes, this brilliantly insightful and bestselling collection of reminiscences illustrates the unique experience of British India: the sadness and luxury for some; the joy and deprivation for others.

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