This interesting volume on the social, economic, and cultural effects of the development of English Rule in India examines the transition of the East India Company from a profit driven economic visitor to a dominating force of colonization in the period between 1600 and the rebellion of 1859. Beginning with a history of this evolution from opportunism to empire builder, the work then discusses at length the effects of this new regime on Indian people and institutions, exploring the co-mingling of economic fortunes, effects on traditional culture, and religion, and relationships between subjects and the state in the new political paradigm. St John teaches history at Haberdashers' Aske's School, Hertfordshire, UK. Annotation ©2012 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)