5 Best Books on Pakistan’s History

There are many books written on Pakistan’s history; however, there are 5 best books on Pakistan’s history that you must read. 

  1. “Pakistan: A New History” by Ian Talbot: This comprehensive history of Pakistan covers the country’s political, social, and cultural history from its inception to the present day.
  2. “The Idea of Pakistan” by Stephen P. Cohen: This book provides a detailed analysis of the origins and evolution of the idea of Pakistan, as well as its role in South Asian politics.
  3. “Pakistan: Beyond the ‘Crisis State'” by Maleeha Lodhi: This book offers a nuanced and balanced perspective on Pakistan’s complex history, highlighting both its challenges and achievements.
  4. “Pakistan: A Hard Country” by Anatol Lieven: This book offers a deep and nuanced examination of Pakistan’s history, culture, and politics, and is notable for its clear and engaging writing style.
  5. “Partitions: A History of the Borders of South Asia” by Swapna Liddle: This book provides a detailed history of the partition of India and Pakistan in 1947 and its aftermath, focusing on the experiences of ordinary people caught up in the events.

A brief summary for each book is explained below:

Pakistan: A New History

“Pakistan: A New History” is a book written by Ian Talbot that offers a comprehensive history of Pakistan, covering the country’s political, social, and cultural history from its inception to the present day.

The book is notable for its balanced and objective approach, and for its extensive use of primary sources. It is a valuable resource for anyone interested in the history of Pakistan and South Asia more broadly.

The Idea of Pakistan

“The Idea of Pakistan” is a book written by Stephen P. Cohen that provides a detailed analysis of the origins and evolution of the idea of Pakistan, as well as its role in South Asian politics.

The book discusses the historical and political factors that led to the creation of Pakistan, and explores the various interpretations of the idea of Pakistan that have emerged over time.

It is a valuable resource for anyone interested in the history and politics of Pakistan, and is notable for its rigorous and thoughtful analysis.

Pakistan: Beyond the ‘Crisis State

“Pakistan: Beyond the ‘Crisis State'” is a book written by Maleeha Lodhi that offers a nuanced and balanced perspective on Pakistan’s complex history, highlighting both its challenges and achievements.

The book covers a range of topics, including Pakistan’s economic development, foreign relations, and political and social issues.

It is notable for its accessible and engaging writing style, and for its emphasis on the diversity and complexity of Pakistani society.

Pakistan: A Hard Country

“Pakistan: A Hard Country” is a book written by Anatol Lieven that offers a deep and nuanced examination of Pakistan’s history, culture, and politics. The book covers a wide range of topics, including the country’s colonial past, its relations with India and Afghanistan, and its role in global politics. It is notable for its clear and engaging writing style, and for its ability to provide insight into the complex and often misunderstood country that is Pakistan.

Partitions: A History of the Borders of South Asia

“Partitions: A History of the Borders of South Asia” is a book written by Swapna Liddle that provides a detailed history of the partition of India and Pakistan in 1947 and its aftermath, focusing on the experiences of ordinary people caught up in the events.

The book discusses the political and historical factors that led to the partition of India, and explores the impact that the partition had on the lives of people living in the newly created countries of India and Pakistan.

It is a valuable resource for anyone interested in the history of South Asia, and is notable for its use of primary sources and its empathetic portrayal of the human cost of the partition.

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