This course examines the history and politics of India from 1947 to the present. Brief consideration is given of continuities and discontinuities between pre- and post- independence India followed by discussion of institutional and leadership changes in national, state, and local politics; language, religious, and caste conflicts; and the transition from a centralized command economy to a liberalized, economic regime. Special attention is paid to the problems and progress of India in maintaining and consolidating a competitive parliamentary system over five decades. Format: lecture/discussion. Requirements: class participation, short papers, and a final exam. No prerequisites.

Hour: BRASS