Republics in Ancient India, c. 1500 B.C.–500 B.C. c4: Preface
Republics in Ancient India, c. 1500 B.C.–500 B.C. c4
- Language
- English
Preface
c4.1
This monograph essentially represents my doctoral thesis in ancient Indian history submitted to the School of Oriental and African Studies, University of London, in 1962. Since the manuscript was completed and sent to the publisher, several studies have appeared that treat certain aspects of ancient Indian polity—notably those of Professors Y. Mishra, Charles Drekmeier, B. A. Saletore, J. W. Spellman, and U. N. Ghoshal. Since none of these books consider the republican political systems of ancient India in any depth or detail, their publication has not necessitated any significant change in my interpretation of the subject.
c4.2
Like any other research, my work has also benefited from the labours of earlier scholars. I am greatly indebted to them and they have been duly acknowledged in the footnotes and bibliography. In the course of this work a number of scholars and friends have helped me in many ways. I am especially thankful for the kindness of Professor A. L. Basham who not only supervised and carefully read through this work, but also encouraged and inspired me. I am also grateful to him for writing the Foreword and introducing me to the scholarly community. Professors E. H. Warmington, A. K. Narain, V. S. Pathak, Dr. J. G. de Casparis, and Mr. C. A. Rylands have gladly and willingly given me their valuable suggestions, friendly encouragement, and personal help.
c4.3
My mother-in-law has also taken a keen interest in this book, as have some of my colleagues and many of my students at the University of Hawaii. It gives me special pleasure to record my appreciation to my wife Miriam, without whose help this work could not have been accomplished.
c4.4
J. P. SHARMA
c4.5
New Delhi 26th January, 1968