Must Read History Books for Students

History helps us understand what we did well, where we went wrong, and how we faced challenges. For example, brave Indian leaders like Maharana Pratap, Maharaja Ranjit Singh, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, and Rani Lakshmibai fought hard against the powerful Mughal and British forces. Although they won some battles, they couldn’t defeat these empires because they were fighting separately. But when the Indians united, they succeeded in ending British rule in India.

India’s history is also filled with amazing figures like Aryabhata, a genius mathematician; Bhagat Singh, a fearless freedom fighter; and Captain Vikram Batra, a brave soldier. Children need to learn about these heroes, and as a parent, you can introduce them to history through books. Here are some great history books for students to help kids learn more about India’s past.

1. Her Name Was Freedom by Anu Kumar

This book shares the stories of 35 brave women who played a key role in India’s independence. From Sarojini Naidu to Aruna Asaf Ali, these women came from different backgrounds – some were homemakers, others were poets, doctors, and lawyers – but they all fought for freedom. This book will inspire children to learn about the powerful women who shaped India’s history.

2. The Hero of Tiger Hill: Autobiography of Capt. Yogendra Singh Yadav

If your child is interested in stories of courage, this autobiography is perfect. It tells the story of Captain Yogendra Singh Yadav, who fought in the Kargil War and received the Param Vir Chakra for his bravery. The book provides an accurate account of the war, making it an educational and exciting read for children.

3. The People of the Indus by Nikhil Gulati

For kids who love ancient history, this book gives a detailed look at the Indus Valley Civilization. It covers the geography, art, and political system of this advanced civilization. Aimed at children aged 10-13, this book helps them dive deeper into the history they may learn in school.

4. The Story of India for Children by Gratian Vas

This book is a complete journey through India’s history, starting from prehistoric times and going up to modern-day India. It introduces children to spiritual leaders like Guru Nanak Dev Ji and political figures like Chandragupta Maurya, making history fun and interesting for young readers.

5. The Last Mughal: The Younger Children’s Edition by William Dalrymple

This children’s version of The Last Mughal explains how the Mughal Empire fell and how the British took control of India. The author uses stories from original Persian and Urdu manuscripts to make history come alive for children, making it a great read for kids who want to understand the end of Mughal rule.

Also, read about the Books all Kids Should Read Before They’re 14

6. Bhimrao Ambedkar: The Boy Who Asked Why by Sowmya Rajendran

This is a wonderful book for introducing children to Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, the man who helped write India’s Constitution. It shows how he fought against social injustice and encouraged people to question unfair practices. Children will learn important values like empathy and resilience from this book.

7. Cave Art: The First Paintings

This visually rich book takes children on a journey to the time when early humans painted on cave walls. It explains how these ancient artists used natural materials to create beautiful artwork and showcase real cave paintings from places like Bhimbetka in Madhya Pradesh.

8. The Raj at War: A People’s History of India’s Second World War by Yasmin Khan

This book tells the story of India’s involvement in World War II. More than 2.5 million Indians fought in the war, even though it was not their fight. Aimed at older children (15-16 years), this book explores the bravery of Indian soldiers and highlights their contribution to world history.

9. Age of Nandas and Mauryas by K.A.N. Sastri

Almost every international public school teaches students about the Nanda and Maurya empires, as it is in the curriculum. For kids who want to go beyond the school curriculum, this book offers a deeper look into the Nanda and Maurya empires. It covers important events like Alexander’s invasion and the reign of Emperor Ashoka, helping children explore this fascinating period in Indian history.

10. The Story of Dandi March by Sandhya Rao

This book tells the story of Mahatma Gandhi’s peaceful protest against British rule through the Dandi March. It shows how Gandhi’s act of picking up a lump of salt inspired thousands of Indians to join the freedom movement. This book is perfect for teaching children the power of non-violence.

Conclusion

History helps us connect with the past and learn from it. It shows us the strength of our ancestors and their fight for freedom. These books are a great way to introduce children to India’s rich history and inspire them to take pride in their heritage. Give these books a try, and let your children discover the incredible stories of our past.

APJ Abdul Kalam - Missile Man of India

There’s nothing you can’t achieve with dedication, determination, and discipline. No matter how big your dreams may seem, they can be fulfilled—just as Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam, our former President, demonstrated throughout his life.

Avul Pakir Jainulabdeen Abdul Kalam, or APJ Abdul Kalam who was honoured with the Bharat Ratna, India’s highest civilian award, was born into a humble family in Rameshwaram, a small town in Tamil Nadu. While other children spent time playing, Kalam dreamed of flying high and exploring the unknown.

Despite not having the modern resources we enjoy today, Kalam pursued his dreams with great passion. To help support his family, he sold newspapers and assisted his father, who worked as a ferryman and imam. Even then, his heart was full of dreams of success. Kalam was deeply committed to his studies and worked hard to excel.

His hard work paid off, as he earned admission to a prestigious college. After completing his education, he joined ISRO, contributing to several important satellite projects. In this blog, we’ll explore more about the life and achievements of Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam, who went on to be known as India’s "Missile Man."

Early Life and Education

Kalam’s early life was marked by challenges, but he faced them with determination. His father, Jainulabdeen Marakayar, was a boat owner and imam, while his mother, Ashiamma, took care of the home. His father ferried Hindu pilgrims across the waters between Rameshwaram and Dhanushkodi, making only a modest income. To help his family, Kalam sold newspapers at a young age.

Despite these challenges, Kalam had a strong desire to learn. He excelled in school, particularly in mathematics. He completed his early education at Schwartz Higher Secondary School in Ramanathapuram. Afterwards, he pursued a degree in Physics from St. Joseph's College in Tiruchirappalli, graduating in 1954. His interest in aerospace engineering led him to the Madras Institute of Technology, where he continued his studies in 1955.

Career as a Scientist

Kalam’s dream was to become a fighter pilot, but he narrowly missed out on an opportunity due to the limited number of spots in the Indian Air Force. However, he didn’t let this setback discourage him. In 1960, he joined ISRO (Indian Space Research Organisation), where he played a key role in several satellite projects, including the launch of India’s first satellite, Aryabhatta.

Before joining ISRO, Kalam worked in various other roles. He was a part of the Defence Research & Development Service (DRDS) and worked as a scientist at the Aeronautical Development Establishment under the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). Unsatisfied with his work there, Kalam moved to INCOSPAR, where he worked with famous space scientist Vikram Sarabhai.

Later, he transferred to ISRO and became the project director of India’s first Satellite Launch Vehicle (SLV-III). In 1980, this vehicle successfully launched the Rohini satellite into orbit. Kalam also began work on building an expandable rocket at DRDO in 1965, which was approved by the government in 1969.

Kalam’s contributions went beyond space exploration. He played a key role in India's defense programs, including the Pokhran-II nuclear tests. He also served as the Chief Scientific Adviser to the Prime Minister from 1992 to 1999. His work on the PSLV (Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle) and SLV-III greatly advanced India's space capabilities.

How APJ Abdul Kalam Became the "Missile Man of India"

Kalam earned the title "Missile Man of India" because of his vital role in developing India’s missile programs. As the head of the Integrated Guided Missile Development Program (IGMDP), he oversaw the creation of several advanced missiles, such as:

- Prithvi

- Agni

- Akash

- Trishul

Kalam's leadership and technical expertise played a major role in transforming India into a missile power, strengthening the country’s defense capabilities and ensuring national security.

Other Contributions of APJ Abdul Kalam

In addition to his work in missile development, Kalam made significant contributions in several other areas:

- Healthcare: Along with cardiologist Soma Raju, Kalam developed a low-cost coronary stent, known as the "Kalam-Raju Stent," which made heart treatments more affordable.

- Technology for Rural Areas: In 2012, he and Raju developed a rugged tablet called the "Kalam-Raju Tablet," designed to improve healthcare services in rural areas.

- Education and Youth Empowerment: During his time as the 11th President of India from 2002 to 2007, Kalam dedicated himself to improving education and empowering the youth. He traveled across the country, delivering motivational speeches and inspiring young people to dream big. One of his best-known books is Wings of Fire.

Conclusion

Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam was not only a brilliant scientist but also a man of great vision and inspiration. He came from a modest background, but his hard work, passion, and perseverance helped him reach the highest levels of success. Known as the "Missile Man of India" for his work in missile development, he also made important contributions to space exploration, healthcare, and education. You can read about him more in the best school in Baddi, where you’ll get extensive knowledge about Dr Kalam.

For his lifelong dedication to science and his work in modernizing India’s defense, Kalam was awarded the Bharat Ratna.

On July 27, 2015, while delivering a lecture in Shillong, Meghalaya, Dr. Kalam passed away at the age of 83. Even after his passing, he continues to inspire people through his writings, including Wings of Fire, Ignited Minds, and Indomitable Spirit. His life is a testament to the idea that with determination, nothing is impossible.

7 Indian Scientists with Greatest Inventions

India’s long-standing tradition of excellence in science and innovation is truly remarkable. From ancient advancements in mathematics and astronomy to cutting-edge discoveries in modern fields like nuclear physics and space exploration, Indian scientists have left an indelible mark on the world. Their contributions span multiple disciplines, earning them international recognition and respect. Want to learn about some of India’s most influential scientific minds? Here are 7 Indian scientists whose pioneering inventions and discoveries transformed the world.

Jagadish Chandra Bose

Jagadish Chandra Bose, born on November 30, 1858, was a true polymath. He excelled as a physicist, botanist, and mathematician, making significant contributions in the fields of radiowave technology and plant physiology. One of his major inventions was the Crescograph, a device used to study the growth of plants and their responses to various stimuli.

Although Bose did not focus on using radio waves for communication, his research greatly influenced early wireless technology. He was the first to demonstrate how radio waves could pass through walls and other objects—ahead of other well-known scientists like Marconi. He also introduced the use of a semiconductor junction to detect radio waves, a critical step forward in electronics.

Bose's passion for plant biology led him to propose that plants, like humans, can feel and respond to their environment. His analogies comparing the care of plants to nurturing children reflected his deep empathy for the natural world.

C. V. Raman

Chandrasekhara Venkata Raman, born on November 7, 1888, revolutionized the field of physics with his discovery of the Raman Effect, which earned him the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1930. This prestigious achievement made him the first Asian to receive a Nobel Prize in a scientific discipline.

The Raman Effect explains how light scatters when it passes through different substances, changing its wavelength as it interacts with the molecules in the medium. This discovery not only enhanced our understanding of light but also laid the groundwork for a wide range of applications, from molecular analysis to medical diagnostics. Raman’s curiosity about why the sea is blue—while returning from a voyage—led him to challenge existing theories and conduct experiments that ultimately resulted in his Nobel-winning discovery.

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Homi J. Bhabha

Known as the father of India’s nuclear program, Homi Jehangir Bhabha, born in 1909, was a pioneering nuclear physicist. He played a key role in establishing the Tata Institute of Fundamental Research (TIFR) and the Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC), laying the foundation for India’s nuclear energy research and development.

Bhabha’s theoretical work on Bhabha Scattering, which describes the interaction between electrons and positrons, made a lasting impact on particle physics. Throughout his career, Bhabha advocated for the peaceful use of nuclear energy. He pushed for the development of thorium-based nuclear power, helping India reduce its reliance on uranium. His vision continues to guide India’s nuclear energy initiatives to this day.

Srinivasa Ramanujan

Srinivasa Ramanujan, born on December 22, 1887, is celebrated as one of the most brilliant mathematicians in history. Without any formal training, Ramanujan made groundbreaking discoveries in number theory, infinite series, and mathematical analysis, capturing the attention of the global mathematical community.

His journey from a small town in India to the prestigious halls of Cambridge University was nothing short of extraordinary. Ramanujan’s collaboration with British mathematician G.H. Hardy resulted in some of his most influential works, including the Ramanujan prime and Ramanujan theta function. Despite health challenges and a lack of formal education, Ramanujan’s genius continues to influence the world of mathematics, and his legacy is honoured each year on National Mathematics Day in India.

Prasanta Chandra Mahalanobis

Prasanta Chandra Mahalanobis, born on June 29, 1893, was a visionary statistician who made groundbreaking contributions to the field of data science and economic planning. He is best known for developing the Mahalanobis Distance, a statistical measure that is widely used in pattern recognition and classification today.

Mahalanobis’s work extended beyond statistics, playing a pivotal role in shaping India’s development during its early years of independence. His statistical methods were instrumental in formulating the Second Five-Year Plan, which focused on industrial growth. He also founded the Indian Statistical Institute (ISI), establishing a legacy of excellence in research and education. For his contributions to statistics and economic planning, he was awarded the Padma Vibhushan.

Vikram Sarabhai

Vikram Sarabhai, born in 1919, is considered the father of India’s space program. His leadership was crucial in establishing the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), which has grown to become a global leader in space exploration and satellite technology.

Sarabhai was instrumental in launching Aryabhata, India’s first satellite, in 1975, as well as developing India’s telecommunications infrastructure through satellite communication systems. His work didn’t stop there—he also founded key research institutions like the Physical Research Laboratory (PRL) and played a major role in establishing the Indian Institute of Management, Ahmedabad. Sarabhai’s visionary efforts continue to propel India’s space achievements forward.

A.P.J. Abdul Kalam

Avul Pakir Jainulabdeen Abdul Kalam, born on October 15, 1931, was a brilliant aerospace scientist who became India’s 11th President. Fondly known as the Missile Man of India, Kalam played a central role in the development of India’s missile technology and its nuclear weapons program.

Kalam led the successful Pokhran-II nuclear tests in 1998, establishing India’s nuclear capabilities. Beyond his contributions to defense, Kalam worked to develop innovative healthcare solutions, such as the Kalam-Raju stent, a low-cost medical device used in heart surgeries. His legacy extends far beyond science—Kalam inspired millions as a leader, educator, and author. He is remembered for his contributions to India’s scientific progress and for his vision of empowering the nation through technology and education.

Conclusion

These 7 remarkable Indian scientists have transformed the world with their pioneering discoveries and inventions. From the mysteries of the universe to the wonders of mathematics and technology, their contributions continue to inspire and push the boundaries of human knowledge. As you delve deeper into science and technology, remember the incredible legacy these brilliant minds have left behind—and aim to carry their spirit of innovation forward.