This carefully crafted study presents the fascinating story of the development and establishment of India's culture and civilization from early pre-history through to the early second millennium. Encompassing topics such as Harappan Civilization, the rise of Hindu culture, the influx of Islam in the 8th and the 11th/12th centuries and key empires, states and dynasties, "India: The Ancient Past" engages with methodological and controversial issues. The features of this illustrated guide include: a range of new maps illustrating different temporal and geographical regions selected source extracts at the end of each chapter, for review and reflection questions for discussion. This comprehensive coverage of the political, spiritual, cultural and geographical history of India, presents a book that will be an enriching read for students of this period and a rewarding addition to the bookshelves of anyone with an interest in this captivating period of history.