The Last Mughal
The Fall of Delhi, 1857
(Autor) William DalrympleOn a dark evening in November 1862, a cheap coffin is buried in eerie silence. There are no lamentations or panegyrics, for the British Commissioner in charge has insisted, 'No vesting will remain to distinguish where the last of the Great Mughals rests.' This Mughal is Bahadur Shah Zafar II, one of the most tolerant and likeable of his remarkable dynasty who found himself leader of a violent and doomed uprising. The Siege of Delhi was the Raj's Stalingrad, the end of both Mughal power and a remarkable culture.
William Dalrymple
William Dalrymple is a Scottish historian, writer, and journalist known for his works on India and the Middle East. His notable works include "City of Djinns," "The Last Mughal," and "Return of a King," which have received critical acclaim for their detailed research and engaging narrative style. Dalrymple's writing blends history, travelogue, and biography, offering readers a rich and immersive experience of the places and people he explores. His works have had a significant impact on the genre of historical non-fiction, shedding light on lesser-known stories and perspectives from the past. "City of Djinns" is considered his most famous work, capturing the essence of Delhi and its complex history with vivid storytelling and meticulous research. Dalrymple's contributions to literature have earned him numerous awards and accolades, establishing him as a leading voice in the field of historical writing.