This document provides an introduction and overview for a collection of essays on 19th century India. It discusses several topics covered in the essays, including Pindaris, Thugs, the Indian police, "Wolf Boys", the 1857 uprising in Delhi and Lucknow, and famines in colonial India. The foreword provides background on author Rajesh Rampal and how he came to compile this eclectic anthology of essays on Indian history, combining both academic work and his own research and perspectives. It describes Rampal as a knowledgeable enthusiast and admirer of the British army who is not afraid of criticism where deserved. The essays aim to shed light on the turbulent times in 18th-19th century India under East India Company