Science, Technology and Social Formation in Medieval Assam

Book excerpt: The beginning of the Ahom dynasty in eastern Assam dates back to AD 1228. This kingdom, which was one of the longest reigning dynasties in India, continued till the beginning of nineteenth century. This book discusses the reasons behind the durability of this state. It analyses the factors that contributed both to development of Ahom and its eventual downfall through an examination of technology, production and system of governance. The author proposes a new categorisation of the Ahom state, which he calls the paik mode of production. This involves examination of the specific tools and technologies used in rice cultivation, varieties of rice cultivated, techniques of gunpowder manufacture, different kinds of guns and canons manufactured, system of guerrilla warfare and extent of civil construction. Overall the book presents a rich account of a lesser known region in India and opens up a new area of historical examination. The book will interest graduate students and academic researchers of South Asian History, especially with a focus on northeastern part of India. General readers interested in the history of Assam will also find this book useful.