History is an important part of preparation for UPSC (Prelims and Mains), State PSCs and for the general awareness/general studies part of the various other competitive exams.
History syllabus is divided into Indian and world History which is then further divided into ancient, medieval and modern history sections.
If you are aiming for a government job through a competitive test, then it is important to go for systematic and thorough preparation for this subject. When one enters into the competitive exam arena, one basic question asked by every aspirant is which are the best books to prepare history for general studies?
This post will help you find the best books to start preparing for history.
Here is a list of 10 Best History books available in the market in case you are preparing for UPSC (Prelims and Mains )Exams and other Competitive Exams.
1.India’s Ancient Past by R.S. Sharma
One of the best books for preparing Ancient Indian history. The book gives a comprehensive idea about ancient Indian history, starting from the Neolithic era, moving on to origin and growth of Indian civilizations (Indus valley civilization), building and spread of empires(Magadha , Maurya, Gupta in the north too Satvahana in the Deccans and development of faith and believe systems (Vedic as well as Buddhism and Jainism).
The easy language is an USP of the book. It is good for both UPSC prelim and mains.
2. The Wonder that was India by A.L Basham for Ancient History
Comprehensive study of Indian history is covered in the book. This includes the development and flow of culture and religion and philosophy, the efficiency of governance, social evolution and tradition. Almost all topics covered under the Indus Valley Civilization, rise, flourish and eventual decline of the civilization. The development of Indian society in the Vedic age (early and later), development of major religions (Buddhism and Jainism) and its effect on Indian society.
The language used is easy to understand and grasp.
3.Early India by Romila Thapar
One of the best books for preparing Ancient Indian history. The book gives a comprehensive idea about ancient Indian history, starting from the Neolithic era, moving on to origin and growth of Indian civilizations (Indus valley civilization), building and spread of empires(Magadha , Maurya, Gupta in the north too, Satvahana in the Deccans and development of faith and believe systems (Vedic as well as Buddhism and Jainism).
4. Medieval India by Satish Chandra
Medieval India by Satish Chandra is a must have for the preparation of UPSC (prelim and Mains) as well as other exams. It covers the historical landscape of the Indian subcontinent over a period of a thousand years, between the eighth and eighteenth century AD.
It covers the rise and fall of several dynasties e.g Cholas, Marathas, Rajputs. The rise of delhi sultanate, the rise and eventual decline of the Mughals. It also gives a thorough knowledge of the political situation, the peace treaties and the dissent between the kingdoms and the socio political and economic aspect of each rule.
The book is in two parts, part 1 covers years from 1206-1526 and part 2 from 1526 to 1748.
5.AdvancedStudy in the History of Medieval India all the three volumes by J.L Mehta
The book is divided into three volumes and covers topics from early-medieval and medieval period. First volume covers 1000- 1526, second volume covers Mughal empire from 1526-1707 and third volume focuses on Medieval Indian Society and Culture.
Almost all topics are covered in the 3 volumes. Foundation of Delhi sultanate, Turkish power dynamics, rise and fall of empires – Cholas, Satvahanas, Maratha; Mughal empire – rise with Babar and Humayun, Akbar and administration and religion, followed by Jehangir,Shahjahan, Aurangzeb.
USP : Provides comprehensive study and clarity to the topics.
6. History of Modern India by Bipan Chandra
Another must have for preparation of competitive exams, the book covers colonial India from the eighteenth century to the twentieth century. It gives clear insight as to what paved the way for British to establish colony in India and to continue their rule for almost 200 years till India gained freedom.
The book covers Indian state and society in the 18th century. Battle of Plassey, The religious and social reforms, the 1st war of independence ( Revolt of 1857), nationalist movements, various laws enacted by the British, Gandhiji and the mass movement for struggle for freedom.
USP :Language of the book is simple and easy to understand.
7. India’s Struggle for Independence: 1857-1947 by Bipan Chandra
The book gives in-depth knowledge of Indian struggle for Independence. Fight under and against the British rule. The raise of nationalist movements, Gandhiji and freedom struggle, civil disobedience movement, Quit India Movement, world war (I and II) and its impact on India’s struggle and finally the handover of power and recognition of Indian sovereignty.
8. History of the World by Arjun Dev and Indira Arjun Dev
Helpful for UPSC Civil Services Mains (paper II) exam. The book covers late nineteenth to the early twenty-first century and based on contemporary history. Covers topics as American civil Right movements, anti-imperialist and nationalist movements in Asia and Africa, formation of the United Nation, Cold War.
9.From Plassey to partition: A History of Modern India
Another must have for preparation of competitive exams. A comprehensive guide covering colonial India from the eighteenth century to the twentieth century. It gives clear insight as to what paved the way for British to establish colony in India and to continue their rule for almost 200years till India gained freedom.
The book covers Indian state and society in the 18th century. Battle of Plassey, The religious and social reforms, the 1st war of independence ( Revolt of 1857), nationalist movements, various laws enacted by the British, Gandhiji and the mass movement for struggle for freedom.
USP : Language of the book is simple and easy to understand.
10. Ancient and Medieval India by Poonam Dalal Dahiya
This book is essentially for students of competitive exams like UPSC ,SSC etc. This book is useful in exams where paper is of objective type. It covers major portion of ancient & medieval history of India according to different exam perspective.
Plus important part and terms are already highlighted in book, so there is less effort required to find important things.
In the end, let me emphasize on one last aspect for preparing any subject i.e. Brushing up the basics is a must before jumping on to the higher knowledge level. Understanding the concepts and remembering the main points is the key. And for that all you have to do it pick up NCERT books from class 9 to 12.
You can download the NCERT books from here.
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