Mapping the Great Game

Explorers, Spies and Maps in 19th-century Asia

by Riaz Dean

Imprint: Casemate

320 Pages, 6 x 9 in, Maps and b/w images

Paperback
9781636243764
September 2023
In Stock

$24.95

$16.50

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Description
Praise

"[A] fine example of popular history, and a worthy addition to the literature on the Great Game." — Journal of Military History

Although the ultimate prize of the Great Game played out between Great Britain and Imperial Russia in the 19th century was India, most of the intrigue and action took place along its northern frontier in Afghanistan, Turkestan and Tibet. Maps and knowledge of the enemy were crucial elements in Britain’s struggle to defend the ‘jewel in the crown.’

The Great Trigonometrical Survey of India had been founded in the 18th century with the aim of creating a detailed map of the country. While most people today are readily able to identify the world’s highest mountain, few know of the man, George Everest, after whom it was named, or the accomplishment that earned him this singular honor. Under his leadership, the Survey of India mapped the Great Arc, which was then lauded as ‘one of the greatest works in the whole history of science,’ though it cost more in monetary terms and human lives than many contemporary Indian wars.

Much of the work of the Survey was undertaken by native Indians, known as Pundits, who were trained to explore, spy out and map Central Asia and Tibet. They did this at great personal risk and with meager resources, while traveling entirely on foot. They would be the first to reveal the mysteries of the forbidden city of Lhasa, and discover the true course of Tibet’s mighty Tsangpo River. They were the greatest group of explorers the world has seen in recent history – yet they remain the classic unsung heroes of the British Raj.

The story of these extraordinary pioneers who explored much of Asia during the 19th century to fill in large portions of its map, and spy out the region for military reasons is often forgotten, but Riaz Dean’s vivid account of their exploits, their adventurous spirit and their tenacity in the face of great adversity, all set within the context of the Great Game and the Survey of India, will finally bring them the attention they deserve.

"This book will be of foremost interest to historical enthusiasts interested in mapping, travel stories, and espionage...a fine example of popular history, and a worthy addition to the literature on the Great Game." ~Journal of Military History

"They were the greatest group of explorers the world has seen in recent history..." ~SirReadaLot.org

‘'A thrilling story of espionage and cartography against the backdrop of imperial ambitions of two powers, Britain and Russia...remarkable for packing in so many details between its covers.'' ~The Hindu

‘’The book offers us glimpses into extremely eccentric personalities whose lives were dedicated to controlling India’s great riches...recognizes the efforts of the various Indians...who were invariably those handling the equipment and in many cases running the greatest risks. It is the stories of these overlooked people that makes the book most readable.'' ~National Herald India

"The author tells an engaging story, sets the scene and brings the time to life." ~Australian and New Zealand Map Society

‘’Overall the book is well researched and a fascinating read. I highly recommend this book to general readers as well as anyone with a passing interest in mapping in general or in the Great Game.’’ ~ANZMaps

‘’The author tells an engaging story, sets the scene and brings the time to life. The author brings this work to life for people who have never actually done work of this nature. Overall the book is well researched and a fascinating read. I would highly recommend this book to general readers as well as anyone with a passing interest in mapping in general or in the Great Game.’’ ~The Globe

‘’...absorbing, well-written story of the mapping of India during the days of the Raj.’’ ~Indian Military Historical Society Journal

‘’Within this big picture, it is Dean’s instinct for telling and cherishable details that really sets this magnificent book apart. ‘’ ~Geographical

“A fascinating, informative, and seminal history of the British exploration of India is a welcome and unreservedly recommended contribution to community, college, and university library British/India history collections and supplemental curriculum studies lists.” ~Midwest Book Review