Peter Robb stands as a distinguished Research Professor of the History of India, holding a prominent position at the School of Oriental and African Studies (SOAS), University of London. His career is marked by significant contributions to the field of South Asian history, both through his extensive research and his commitment to fostering the next generation of scholars. This article explores Robb’s academic journey, highlighting his expertise and influence in shaping the understanding of India’s past.
Robb’s academic foundations were laid at Victoria University of Wellington in New Zealand, where he pursued studies in English and History, culminating in his graduation in 1966. His early academic promise was evident as he was recognized as a Senior Scholar in 1966 and subsequently appointed as a Junior Lecturer in History at Victoria in 1967. This initial success paved the way for further academic pursuits on a global stage.
Awarded the prestigious Commonwealth Scholarship, Robb embarked on doctoral studies at SOAS from 1967 to 1970. This period of intensive research culminated in the conferral of a PhD in 1971, marking the beginning of his long and impactful association with SOAS. His deep dive into the intricacies of Indian history during his doctoral studies solidified his path as a leading voice in the field.
Since 1971, Professor Robb has been an integral part of SOAS, holding various key administrative and academic roles. Notably, he served as Pro-Director of the School for five years until the end of the 2007/8 session, demonstrating his leadership and commitment to the institution’s broader academic mission. Prior to this significant leadership role, Robb also served as the Head of the Department of History and Chair of the Centre of South Asian Studies, further underscoring his dedication to the growth and direction of South Asian historical studies within SOAS.
Beyond his institutional roles, Peter Robb’s expertise is recognized through his fellowships at esteemed societies such as the Royal Historical Society and the Royal Asiatic Society. His engagement extends to active participation in these societies; he currently serves on the Council of the Royal Asiatic Society. Furthermore, he has previously chaired the Council of the Society for South Asian Studies and the British Association for South Asian Studies, and contributed to the British Academy’s South Asia panel. These affiliations highlight his standing within the wider academic community of historians specializing in South Asia.
Professor Robb’s influence extends significantly through his mentorship of doctoral students. He has supervised numerous PhD candidates, guiding their research into diverse aspects of Indian history. His supervision has resulted in a rich tapestry of scholarly work, exemplified by the diverse research topics of some of his previous PhD students:
- Ezra Rashkow (2008) explored the ‘Histories Of Hunting, Wildlife, And Forest Societies In Western And Central India, 1857-1947’, shedding light on the complex interactions between environmental history and social change.
- Prabhu Narain Bapu (2010) investigated the ‘Hindu Mahasabha In Colonial North India 1915-1928’, examining the construction of nation and history during a critical period of Indian nationalism.
- Sohini Dasgupta (2010) analyzed ‘Representations of ‘Hindu Custom’ in Late Nineteenth Century Colonial Bengal’, delving into the complexities of cultural authenticity in colonial contexts.
- Sanjukta Ghosh (2010) researched ‘Colonial State, Agricultural Knowledge Transfers And Indigenous Response: Bengal Presidency 1870-1930’, focusing on the impact of colonial policies on agricultural practices and local responses.
- Tara Lynn Mayer (2010) examined ‘European Dress, Identity And Authority In Late Eighteenth And Early Nineteenth Century North India’, exploring the role of clothing in shaping imperial identities.
- Aditya Sarkar (2010) studied ‘The Making Of Industrial Relations In Late Nineteenth-Century Bombay 1917-1948’, focusing on labor dynamics in colonial Bombay.
- Valerie Ellen Rourke Anderson (2012) addressed ‘The Eurasian Problem in Nineteenth Century India’, investigating the social and political complexities surrounding Eurasian identity.
- Upal Chakrabarti (2013) explored ‘British Political Economy, Agrarian Governance, and Early Nineteenth-century Cuttack (1803-1850)’, analyzing the interplay of political economy and agrarian policies in early colonial Cuttack.
- Anushay Malik (2013) examined ‘The Labour Movement in Lahore 1947-1974’, focusing on the evolution of labor politics in post-partition Lahore.
- Aparajita Mukhopadhyay (2013) researched the ‘Impact of Railways on Colonial North Indian Society, 1855-1920’, analyzing the transformative effects of railway expansion on colonial society.
In conclusion, Peter Robb’s career reflects a deep and sustained engagement with the history of India. As a Research Professor, he continues to contribute significantly to the field through his ongoing research and his mentorship of emerging scholars, ensuring a lasting legacy in the study of Indian history. His work provides valuable insights into the multifaceted history of India and its global context.
