'Understanding Pakistan's complicated past is integral to grasping why long-standing observers of Pakistan such as Talbot are still able to identify the opportunities within the country alongside the obstacles that need to be overcome before Pakistan's potential can be fully realized. As Pakistan's troubles seem to be getting worse, this timely volume not only helps shed light on some of ... Read morethe reasons why that is, but also explains in depth how Pakistan can still steer itself into a more positive direction through much needed structural reforms.'
International Affairs
'In this work of interpretation Talbot builds on his earlier historical analyses of Pakistan. He reflects on the entrenchment of the army in politics; the issues surrounding the role of Islam in public life; the tensions between centralising tendencies and local identities; and the impact of geopolitics on internal development. In doing so he lays bare failures of governance, economic and political development. He concludes that the security crisis may not be the worst that Pakistan will have to face; more serious threats lie in population and environmental pressures. Talbot's judgements are balanced and his words authoritative.'
Francis Robinson, Professor of the History of South Asia, Royal Holloway, University of London
'An invaluable guide for navigating and understanding Pakistan's complex, byzantine politics. Talbot brings extraordinary understanding and empathy in analysing the trials and tribulations of Pakistan's political experience. No other contemporary history of Pakistan comes anywhere near Talbot's understanding and detail of its challenges and missed opportunities.'
Maleeha Lodhi, former Pakistani Ambassador to the US and editor of Pakistan: Beyond the 'Crisis' State
'This is an excellent overview of Pakistan's troubled past and uncertain future. Professor Ian Talbot provides a judicious, informed and incisive account of a polity that has defied standard explanations. A work of exceptional quality that is a must read for everyone seriously interested in Pakistan's history and politics.'
Gurharpal Singh, Dean , Faculty of Arts and Humanities, SOAS
'This book by Ian Talbot is a timely addition to understand the predicaments in which Pakistan is presently embroiled. Talbot has written extensively on South Asia in particular the history of Pakistan and this book shows his expertise on the subject. - [It is] a welcome addition to understand the state of Pakistan and its society from a historical perspective.'
Muhammad S. Pervez, Lahore School of Economics
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