"The Men Who Ruled India" by Philip Mason, published in 1987, is a comprehensive examination of the British colonial administration in India, focusing on the key figures who shaped its policies and governance.Brief Overview: Mason traces the history of British rule in India from the early days of the East India Company to the eventual transition to direct crown rule following the 1857 uprising. The book profiles influential British administrators and leaders, such as Lord Cornwallis and Lord Wellesley, highlighting their contributions to colonial governance and reform.Mason explores the complexities of British rule, including the impact of Western ideas on Indian society, the rise of Indian nationalism, and the role of the press in shaping public opinion. He discusses the challenges faced by British authorities and the responses of Indian leaders seeking independence.The narrative emphasizes the interplay between power and resistance, revealing the lasting legacies of British colonialism in India. Overall, Mason’s work provides an insightful analysis of the personalities and events that defined an era, making it a valuable resource for understanding the historical context of British rule in India.

A chapter-wise summary of "The Men Who Ruled India" by Philip Mason, published in 1987. This book provides a detailed account of the key figures who shaped British rule in India.Chapter 1: The British Arrival The opening chapter discusses the early British presence in India, focusing on the establishment of the East India Company and the initial interactions with local powers.Chapter 2: The Rise of the Company Mason details how the East India Company expanded its influence, outlining key battles and political maneuvers that solidified British control over Indian territories.Chapter 3: The Founding of the Raj This chapter covers the transition from company rule to direct British governance after the 1857 revolt, exploring the motivations and challenges faced by British administrators.Chapter 4: The Great Rebellion Mason examines the events of the 1857 uprising, analyzing its causes, key figures, and the British response, highlighting the implications for British rule in India.Chapter 5: Key Figures in Administration The author profiles influential British administrators, such as Lord Cornwallis and Lord Wellesley, discussing their contributions to governance and reform in India.Chapter 6: The Impact of Western Ideas This chapter explores the introduction of Western education, legal systems, and social reforms, emphasizing their effects on Indian society and the burgeoning nationalist movement.Chapter 7: The Nationalist Response Mason examines the emergence of Indian nationalism, focusing on key leaders and movements that sought to challenge British authority and advocate for independence.Chapter 8: The Role of the Press The chapter discusses the rise of the Indian press and its role in shaping public opinion and political discourse, highlighting the tension between British authorities and Indian journalists.Chapter 9: The Road to Independence Mason reflects on the events leading up to India's independence, analyzing the complex interplay of British policy and Indian resistance, including the role of figures like Mahatma Gandhi.Chapter 10: Legacy of British Rule In the concluding chapter, Mason evaluates the long-term impact of British rule on India, discussing both the positive and negative legacies that continue to influence the country today.