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Professor Ranajit Guha, a renowned historian and founding figure in Sussex’s own history, died in April, a month before he would have turned 100.

Professor Guha, who was born in Bakarganj district or Barisal, in British India (now in Bangladesh) was recruited to the University in 1962 by Asa Briggs, then Dean of the School of Social Studies, who later became Pro-Vice Chancellor and Vice-Chancellor. In his 18 years at Sussex, during our earliest years, Ranajit became an integral part of the School of African and Asian studies (AfrAs), which continues across Media, Arts and Humanities and Global Studies.

Ranajit was one of the early pioneers of Subaltern studies, studying, from the perspective of the underclasses, post-colonial and post-imperial societies, fitting with Sussex’s tradition of radical history. Many students were attracted to Sussex by his work and presence, some of whom are still here, continuing research in the same area. A dedicated teacher, radical intellectual and prolific researcher, Guha went on to spend the rest of his career at the Australian National University and then Vienna. 

Read a full obituary and biography of Professor Guha, focusing on his time at Sussex, by Professor Vinita Damodaran.