I wish to record my thanks to those who have helped me directly and indirectly in the writing of this book. My thanks to the Government of India for the award of the Aneurin Bevan Fellowship which has enabled me to travel widely in that country. Also to the British Council for awards which have enabled me to travel in other parts of Asia. The University of Birmingham has always been cooperative in supporting my research in a number of European and Asian countries.
My thanks to Ben Hayes, Commissioning Editor at Reaktion Books, who has devoted much time to this book and whose readily given advice has resulted in many improvements. Also to the editor Aimee Selby who has seen the book through the production stages and has been meticulous in ensuring that everything was in good order.
Most of all I wish to record my indebtedness to Brenda, my wife. From the outset she has been an active participant in the writing of this book and her help and advice throughout has been invaluable. She has done important research on a number of particular subjects and has also compiled the index. She contributed greatly in the shaping of the book and has been my partner throughout the whole project.