TABLE OF CONTENTS CHAPTER 1: INTRODUCTION CHAPTER 2: ANCIENT TAMILAKAM Cholas-Cheras-Pandyas-Sangam Poetry-Brahmins-Yavanas-Mauryas-Greek and Roman Influence- Alexander the Great-Seleucid Empire-Shakas-Parthians-Kushans-Bactria -Buddhism in ancient South India-Satvahanas-Andhra Ishkavakus -Amaravati-Nagarjunkonda- Amaravati School of Art -Gandhara Art- the performance arts as living sources of history CHAPTER 3: SUCCESSION AND RULE Ashvamedha Yagyas- blood feuds-patricide and fratricide || matrimonial alliances as an instrument of statecraft || suzerainty as arrangements between sovereigns || power of tributaries and subordinates -local rajas and chiefs-concentric circles of local warrior chiefs, rajas, maharajas and rajadhirajas || ancient and widespread history of decentralisation and federation || traditions of local self-governance || Bimbisara-Ajatasatru-Shishunaga-Nandas-Mauryas-Kushans-Satvahanas-Andhra Ishkavakus-Cholas-Gangas-Vakatakas-Chalukyas-Rashtrakutas CHAPTER 4: W...