Understanding Kashmir and Kashmiris by Christopher Snedden

Understanding Kashmir and Kashmiris by Christopher Snedden

“Understanding Kashmir and Kashmiris” by Christopher Snedden offers an authoritative and insightful examination of the historical and geopolitical factors that have shaped the region of Jammu and Kashmir. Beginning with the British creation of the state in 1846 and its subsequent sale to Raja Gulab Singh, Snedden provides a detailed account of how the region’s strategic significance influenced its tumultuous history. This book delves into the pivotal moments that have defined Kashmir’s past and continue to impact its present and future.

Contextualizing British Decisions and Their Impact

Snedden meticulously contextualizes the British decision to relinquish Kashmir, exploring how their geopolitical concerns—expansionist Russia, beguiling Tibet, and unstable China—led them to focus their efforts on the ‘Great Game’ in Afghanistan and Turkistan. By examining these broader strategic interests, Snedden sheds light on how the British overlooked the potential consequences of their actions in Kashmir, which later fueled the India-Pakistan dispute over the region.

Key Features and Highlights

– Historical Context: Detailed analysis of the British creation and subsequent sale of Jammu and Kashmir, and the consolidation of control by the Dogra maharajas.
– Geopolitical Insights: Exploration of the strategic considerations that influenced British actions and their long-term consequences for the region.
– Complex Demographics: Examination of the diverse peoples and distant borders that made up the princely state, highlighting the challenges of unification and governance.
– Accession Controversy: In-depth look at the Maharaja of Jammu and Kashmir’s controversial accession to India in 1947 and its unintended outcomes.

Framing the Kashmir Dispute

Snedden weaves a compelling narrative that frames the ongoing Kashmir dispute, explaining why it persists and assessing its political and administrative implications for the divided peoples of the state. His thorough research and nuanced understanding provide readers with a comprehensive view of the intricate dynamics at play in this contentious region.

Essential Reading for Understanding Kashmir

“Understanding Kashmir and Kashmiris” is essential reading for anyone seeking to grasp the complex history and current issues surrounding Jammu and Kashmir. Christopher Snedden’s expert analysis offers valuable insights into the region’s past and present, making this book an indispensable resource for scholars, policymakers, and anyone interested in South Asian geopolitics.