The Sino-Indian border war of 1962 forms a major landmark in South Asian, Asian and Cold War history. Among others, it resulted in an unresolved conflict permanently hindering rapprochement between China and India, the establishment of the Sino-Pakistani axis, the deepening of the Sino-Soviet split and had a lasting impact on Indian domestic affairs.
This volume draws on new documentary evidence to re-evaluate perceptions, motivations and decision-making processes of both antagonists, but also of third powers immediately affected by the conflict. It also investigates the effect on India's internal politics, its Constitution, the Communist Party of India and the fate of Indians of Chinese origin. Finally, it analyses how the conflict is viewed in India today and its ramifications for India-China relationship.
A major intervention in the Asian historical landscape, this book will be indispensable to scholars and researchers of modern history, especially of modern South Asia and China, international relations, defence and strategic studies, international politics and government. It will also be useful for think-tanks and government agencies.
'This book is an essential contribution to discussions on the India-China war of 1962, its origins and its aftermath. In twelve chapters and a comprehensive introduction, the editors have put together studies that answer most of the remaining questions about the conflict, put to rest many controversies, and shed light on the existing obstacles to better relations between Asia's two largest countries and emerging world powers. This volume will be mandatory reading for politicians, historians and researchers in all the countries covered by the book.'
Krishnan Srinivasan, Former Indian Foreign Secretary, Government of India
'This excellent and timely volume revisits the Sino-Indian war of 1962 - a brief but immensely consequential conflict. Dasgupta and Luthi have brought together a group of fine scholars to examine afresh the causes and consequences of the conflict. The volume is particularly noteworthy for its attempt to situate the Sino-Indian war against a wider international backdrop of the Cold War and decolonisation. This book will be indispensable for scholars and general readers alike.'
Srinath Raghavan, Senior Fellow, Centre for Policy Studies, New Delhi, India
'This important collection of original essays sheds fresh light on the origins, course, and consequences of one of the Cold War era's seminal - and yet most understudied - conflicts. The authors demonstrate the great value of history written from a truly international, multi-archival perspective. Highly recommended for all students of China, India, and, more broadly, the post-1945 world order.'
Robert J. McMahon, Ralph Mershon Professor of History, Ohio State University, USA
