Circa 1744: a young Englishman landed at Madras; there he was to work as writer in the service of East India Company. For some years he languished in this uninspiring vocation, until he chanced upon the profession of arms during the siege of Fort St. David in 1748.

There everyone, including himself, realised that his calling was the profession of arms. Then there was no looking back for this young man, who took unbelievable risks and displayed sterling qualities that a military leader should possess.

He toiled hard in the battlefields of Southern India; registering impressive victories at Kaveripak, Samiaveram, Arcot, and Trichinopaly. His crowning glory came in 1757 at Plassey; where he defeated Nawab Siraj-ud-daula and brought Bengal, Bihar, and Orissa under the sway of East India Company.

He foiled the designs of other contenders—the French, and Dutch, who were vying hard to secure their interests in the sub-continent.

Such was the life and achievement of Lord Robert Clive: a soldier, an administrator and a statesman of unmatched calibre, who despite hailing from an ordinary family background; and lacking in formal military education or training rose to such heights due to his inner strength, conviction and great daring. Clive was a born leader of men.

Unfortunately, he was denied due recognition from his countrymen. His foes indulged in a slanderous campaign against him; leading to his untimely and sad demise. This biography not only traces the life and times of its protagonist, but also unravels the socio-political upheavals of eighteenth century India in an absorbing manner.