If you are preparing for the UPSC exam, then studying world history is an essential part of your preparation. A good book on world history can help you understand the different events, cultures, and civilizations that have shaped our world. But with so many books available in the market, it can be difficult to choose the one that is best suited for your needs.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Book on World History
Before we dive into the list of recommended books, let’s first look at some factors that you should consider when choosing a book on world history:
Author’s Credentials: Look for books written by authors who have expertise in the field of history.
Coverage: The book should cover all the important events and periods in world history.
Language and Writing Style: The language used should be easy to understand and the writing style should be engaging.
Relevance to UPSC Syllabus: Make sure that the book covers topics that are relevant to the UPSC exam syllabus.
Now that we know what to look for in a book on world history, let’s take a look at some of the best options available:
‘A Brief History of Modern India’ by Rajiv Ahir
Although this book is primarily focused on Indian history, it also covers important events in world history. The language used is simple, and it includes many maps and diagrams which make it easier to understand complex concepts. The book is relevant to the UPSC syllabus as it covers topics such as colonialism, imperialism, and decolonization.
‘The Story of Civilization’ by Will Durant
This Pulitzer prize-winning series covers the entire span of human history from ancient civilizations to modern times. The writing style is engaging, and the author has made an effort to include lesser-known facts and anecdotes. Although the series is quite long, it is divided into multiple volumes which makes it easier to read and understand.
‘A History of the World’ by Andrew Marr
This book covers world history from the earliest civilizations to the present day. The author has made an effort to include different perspectives and voices, which makes it a more comprehensive and inclusive account of history. The language used is simple yet engaging, and the book includes many illustrations and photographs which make it visually appealing.
‘The Penguin History of the World’ by J.M. Roberts
This book is a comprehensive account of world history from prehistoric times to the 21st century. The writing style is engaging, and the author has made an effort to connect different events and periods in history. The book includes many maps and illustrations which make it easier to understand complex ideas.
- Conclusion:
In conclusion, choosing the right book on world history can make a big difference in your preparation for the UPSC exam. While there are many good options available, you should choose a book that is relevant to the UPSC syllabus, covers all important events and periods in world history, has an engaging writing style, includes many illustrations and photographs, and is written by an author with expertise in the field of history.
So go ahead and choose one of these books or explore other options that meet these criteria. Happy studying!