Sophisticated societies have risen and fallen in India for more than four millennia, from the urbanized Harappa culture to today's Republic of India, the world's largest democracy. Because of its natural wealth, India has long been a tempting prize for invaders, yet foreign forces such as the Mughal Empire and the British did not destroy India's vibrant spirit. Rather, external influences often became absorbed into the mix of different peoples, languages, religions, and regional traditions, creating a lasting culture of great depth. This book recounts the history of India and much of present-day Pakistan and Bangladesh as well as the factors that have contributed to India's epic economic successes in recent times. Memorable images texture the narrative and vividly animate the story of this unique nation.