While most people are familiar with certain aspects of Indian history and culture, the roots of the country's contemporary society, conflicts, and politics are not always well understood in the West. Covering approximately 5,000 years of history, A Brief History of India offers an accessible, reliable introduction to the rich and diverse history of India from the prehistoric Indus Valley Civilization to today. Coverage includes: Caste, Kings, and the Hindu World Order, Gandhi and the Nationalist Movement, Constructing the Nation, Bollywood and Beyond, India at the Turn of the Century. Basic facts, a chronology, a bibliography, and a list of suggested reading make up the appendices. Judith E. Walsh is currently a professor in the History and Philosophy Department at The State University of New York College at Old Westbury