Madhavi Gaur
August 12, 2023 02:50
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The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) examination is one of the most prestigious and challenging competitive exams in India. Aspiring civil servants dedicate significant time and effort to prepare for this examination, which covers a vast range of subjects, including history. The study of history not only helps candidates understand the evolution of societies and cultures but also equips them with a broader perspective on contemporary issues.
To excel in the history section of the UPSC exam, aspirants should delve into a collection of well-curated books that offer deep insights into the past. Here, we present a comprehensive list of the best history books for UPSC preparation.
Preparing for the UPSC (Union Public Service Commission) exam requires a comprehensive understanding of history, which can be gained through a combination of textbooks, reference books, and other study materials. Here are some of the best history books that can help you in your UPSC preparation:
1. India’s Struggle for Independence by Bipan Chandra
2. A Brief History of Modern India by Spectrum Publications
3. History of Medieval India by Satish Chandra
4. Ancient India by R.S. Sharma
5. World History by Norman Lowe
6. India After Gandhi by Ramachandra Guha
7. Facets of Indian Culture by Spectrum Publications
8. NCERT Books of History
9. Indian Art and Culture by Nitin Singhania
10. India’s Ancient Past by R.S. Sharma
Remember that in addition to these books of History, you should also refer to the UPSC syllabus, practice previous years’ question papers, and stay updated with current affairs related to history. Moreover, note-taking, regular revision, and mock tests are crucial aspects of effective preparation.
Below is the list of Best Books of History for UPSC in detail:
A classic in the field of modern Indian history, “India’s Struggle for Independence” provides an in-depth account of India’s freedom movement. Written by renowned historian Bipan Chandra, this book covers the period from the early 19th century to India’s independence in 1947.
The book offers a detailed analysis of various stages, events, and personalities that shaped the struggle against British colonial rule. Aspirants can expect to gain valuable insights into the socio-political dynamics of the time and the role of leaders like Mahatma Gandhi, Jawaharlal Nehru, and Subhas Chandra Bose.
For a comprehensive understanding of India’s ancient history, “Ancient India” by R.S. Sharma is a go-to resource. This book delves into the rich cultural, economic, and social aspects of ancient Indian civilizations, covering topics from the Indus Valley Civilization to the Gupta Empire. With its well-researched content and clear presentation, the book aids aspirants in grasping the foundational aspects of India’s past.
Rajiv Ahir’s “A Brief History of Modern India” is a concise and structured book that focuses on the significant events and developments that shaped modern India from the mid-18th century to the present day. It provides an easy-to-follow narrative that helps aspirants grasp the complexities of modern Indian history without getting lost in unnecessary details.
To understand the post-independence trajectory of India, “India After Gandhi” by Ramachandra Guha is a must-read. This book offers insights into the challenges and transformations faced by India as it transitioned from a colonial state to a democratic nation. Guha’s engaging writing style and meticulous research make this book an enriching resource for candidates aiming to comprehend the intricacies of India’s political landscape.
For a holistic exploration of ancient Indian culture, “The Wonder That Was India” by A.L. Basham is a timeless work. While it covers topics such as religion, philosophy, art, and literature, it also offers a comprehensive overview of India’s historical past. This book not only aids in history preparation but also provides valuable insights into the cultural foundation of the nation.
UPSC’s history section is not limited to India alone; it also encompasses world history. Norman Lowe’s “Modern World History” is a comprehensive resource that covers global events, transformations, and developments from the 18th century to the late 20th century. Aspirants can gain a better understanding of how international events shaped the world and influenced India during this period.
For a more expansive perspective on world history, “The History of the World” by J.M. Roberts is a recommended read. This book presents a comprehensive overview of global history from prehistoric times to the 20th century. While not solely focused on the UPSC syllabus, it provides a broader context that can help aspirants understand the interplay of civilizations and events on a global scale.
Preparing for the history section of the UPSC examination requires a strategic approach and a deep understanding of the subject matter. The aforementioned books of history are not only reliable sources of information but also valuable tools for enhancing critical thinking and analytical skills.
Aspirants should remember that reading these books of History is not just about memorizing facts but about developing a nuanced understanding of historical contexts and their implications. By immersing themselves in these well-curated resources, UPSC aspirants can effectively unravel the mysteries of the past and, in turn, be better equipped to shape the future of the nation.
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