A biography of one of the most talked about Viceroys of India. In short, Lord Curzon was a man with a value system of his own, a set of his defined principles which he followed without much of influence from the society at large. The history of India has denounced Curzon for various reasons and most importantly blaming him for the Bengal partitions. However, this book shows a definitely different picture. Curzon had some positive thoughts for India and has contributed significantly in setting up of Archaeological Survey of India, maintaining a law and order situation in the country rather than the Indians getting bulldozed by the oppressive British elements in the Government. In Nehru's language Curzon saved everything that's beautiuful in India.
Why was he misunderstood?
People typically of high esteem for themselves work on an agenda of their own which they find hard to express before the stakeholders. This is what probably happened in Curzon's life. Indians never understood the administrative reasons which he had in mind in Bengal partition nor he had enough friends in the British government. He was a man of honor and principle but could not become a people's person. Losing his Vice-royalty and later the prime ministerial candidature speaks a lot of this.
The book is quite well written but the facts may have very little significance to the modern readers. Indian history is general has very little reference to Viceroys of British Empire. It may be a good read if you are interested in just reading about Curzon. The significance of the book to a larger goal of knowing Indian history better may not be achieved through this book.
