In An Era of Darkness: The British Empire in India, renowned author, diplomat, and politician Shashi Tharoor delivers a riveting, meticulously researched critique of British imperial rule in India. Originating from his viral 2015 Oxford Union debate speech, Tharoor expands his compelling arguments to systematically dismantle the long-standing myths surrounding colonialism. He demolishes apologist claims that British rule brought democracy, economic prosperity, or enlightened governance to the Indian subcontinent.

Uncovering the Brutal Impact of British Colonialism.

Tharoor presents a stark historical re-evaluation, detailing how two centuries of systematic exploitation drained India’s immense wealth, crippled its flourishing textile and steel industries, and reduced its share of global GDP from 23% to a meager 3%. Through sharp analysis and compelling documentation, the book examines how millions perished due to man-made famines, resource drains, and oppressive imperial policies. Whether analyzing the true intentions behind the Indian railways, the legal system, or the English language, Tharoor demonstrates that colonial infrastructure was built strictly to serve British interests rather than the colonized population.

Tharoor’s engaging narrative voice keeps readers engrossed from start to finish.