Keeping the Jewel in the Crown: The British Betrayal of India

Sparks off ideas and arguments in all directions' – John Hussey, author of Marlborough: The Hero of Blenheim

'A forceful and convincing critique of British hypocrisy which never lacks a cutting edge' – Paul Addison, author of Churchill: The Unexpected Hero

In 1947, when India achieved independence, Britain portrayed the transfer of power as the outcome of decades, even centuries, of responsible planning – the honourable discharge of an historic responsibility. That view has never been seriously challenged in Britain. But this book shows that the official narrative is a travesty of what really happened.

Drawing on the documentary evidence – letters, diaries, state papers – Walter Reid reveals how Britain selfishly deceived and prevaricated in order to arrest political progress in India for as long as possible – a shameful passage in British imperial policy which led to tragedy and untold suffering when independence finally became inevitable.

© 2016 Birlinn (E-bog): 9780857909008

Release date

E-bog: 19. maj 2016