Post by : Rameen Ariff

Prominent Indian historian Sunil Amrith has been awarded the esteemed British Academy Book Prize for his influential book, The Burning Earth: An Environmental History of the Last 500 Years. This accolade, valued at £25,000, honors exceptional non-fiction writing that enriches our understanding of global culture, society, and history. Amrith's meticulously researched book delves into humanity's intricate relationship with the environment.

Hailing from Kenya with South Indian roots, Amrith was raised in Singapore and is currently a Professor of History at Yale University in the United States. His work resonates with the essence of global heritage and intellectual rigor. The judges commended The Burning Earth as “essential reading” in light of the current climate crisis. The award was presented to him during a ceremony at the British Academy in London, where his book was acknowledged as a significant work contributing to environmental historical discourse.

In a live video address from the US, Amrith mentioned that The Burning Earth aims to portray a hopeful narrative rather than a pessimistic one. He emphasized the intertwined nature of human suffering and environmental degradation throughout history. The British Academy Book Prize winner elaborated on the importance of revisiting sustainable practices and forgotten innovations that could inspire a more harmonious existence on Earth.

Professor Rebecca Earle, who chaired the judging panel for the British Academy Book Prize, characterized The Burning Earth as a “masterful exploration of the links between human history and environmental shifts.” She commended Amrith for his global outlook and compelling storytelling, labeling the book as “must-read material for those looking to comprehend the roots of the ongoing climate crisis.” The panel also noted how Amrith’s gift for weaving thorough research with engaging narrative set his work apart from the six titles shortlisted.

The Burning Earth has been recognized as an exemplary showcase of how historical events like colonization, industrialization, and migration have molded the present-day environmental landscape. Readers are taken on a voyage through time and space—from the conquests in the Americas to British gold mining in South Africa and from the ravages of the Black Death to World War II—highlighting how human activities have indelibly impacted the Earth. The judges praised Amrith’s skill in transforming historical facts into a captivating narrative that resonates with its audience.

Professor Susan J. Smith, President of the British Academy, referred to the winner as an ideal synthesis of research and storytelling excellence. She noted that The Burning Earth combines “meticulous analysis with engaging prose,” rendering it both a scholarly success and an enjoyable read. This aligns perfectly with the mission of the British Academy Book Prize to recognize works that enhance public awareness of the world through insightful, well-articulated research.

The shortlist for the British Academy Book Prize also included works like The Golden Road: How Ancient India Transformed the World by William Dalrymple, and others. Each title received commendation and £1,000, but it was Sunil Amrith’s The Burning Earth that epitomized the essence of the prize through its originality, perceptiveness, and broad relevance.

Created in 2013, the British Academy Book Prize is one of the UK's distinguished literary awards within the humanities and social sciences. It champions authors from any nation whose works, published in English, provide fresh insights into the human experience. By bestowing this year's prize on Sunil Amrith, the British Academy reaffirms its pledge to elevate voices that challenge conventional thinking about history and the environment.

Through The Burning Earth, Amrith not only chronicles the extensive history of environmental transformation but also stimulates contemplation about how our ancestors' decisions continue to influence our planet. His recognition at the British Academy Book Prize highlights the necessity of reconnecting with timeless wisdom to foster a more sustainable and empathetic future.

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