Cambridge University Press Acts of Aid - Cambridge University Press History Book

Explore the deep connections between disaster management and political power in Acts of Aid. This socio-political history examines the aftermath of the 1934 Bihar-Nepal earthquake to reveal how relief and reconstruction efforts impact class, communities, and social inequality. Rather than treating the earthquake as an isolated event, this work traces disaster responses throughout the twentieth century. It shows how aid efforts were tied to political processes that went far beyond the immediate geological event. Readers will learn how relief activities reflected the specific agendas and ideas of the colonial state, international organizations, and civil society. This book provides a detailed look at the continuities and changes within disaster response systems. It is an essential resource for those studying social and cultural history, political science, or the history of South Asia. By studying the 1934 Bihar-Nepal earthquake, this text offers a broader understanding of how reconstruction efforts shape society and reflect the power dynamics of their time.