When it comes to preparing for the UPSC World History exam, choosing the right book can make all the difference. There are numerous books available in the market, each claiming to be better than the other. In this article, we will explore some of the best books for world history UPSC and help you choose the one that suits your needs.
1. The Penguin History of the World
The Penguin History of the World written by J.M Roberts is a comprehensive book on world history that covers events from prehistoric times to modern-day developments. The book is divided into seven parts and covers topics such as ancient civilizations, medieval times, and modern world history. It is considered one of the best books for world history UPSC due to its detailed and analytical approach.
Pros:
- Comprehensive coverage of world history
- Covers events in detail with an analytical approach
- Easy to read language
Cons:
- The book is lengthy and may not be suitable for last-minute preparation
- The author’s writing style may not be suitable for everyone
2. History of Modern World by Jain and Mathur
History of Modern World written by Jain and Mathur is another popular book among UPSC aspirants. The book covers events from 1850 onwards and focuses on European history in particular. It also covers topics such as imperialism, colonialism, nationalism, and revolution.
Pros:
- Covers modern world history in detail
- Focused on European history which is important for UPSC exams
- Language used is simple and easy to understand
Cons:
- The book is limited to modern world history and does not cover ancient or medieval times
- May not be suitable for those who prefer a more analytical approach to history
3. A Brief History of Modern India by Rajiv Ahir
A Brief History of Modern India written by Rajiv Ahir is a popular choice among UPSC aspirants for Indian history. The book covers events from the mid-18th century to the present day and includes topics such as the British rule in India, Indian freedom struggle, and post-independence developments.
Pros:
- Covers modern Indian history in detail
- Easy to read language with clear explanations of events
- Includes multiple choice questions at the end of each chapter for practice
Cons:
- The book is limited to modern Indian history and does not cover ancient or medieval times
- The author’s writing style may not be suitable for everyone
Conclusion:
Choosing the right book for world history UPSC can be a daunting task. However, with the above recommendations, you can make an informed decision based on your needs and preferences.
While The Penguin History of the World is a comprehensive book that covers world history in detail, History of Modern World by Jain and Mathur is an excellent choice if you want a focused approach on European history. A Brief History of Modern India by Rajiv Ahir is an ideal choice for those who want to focus on Indian history. Whatever your choice may be, remember to study regularly and revise effectively to ace your UPSC exams.