Howard Spodek, a distinguished American historian and a visionary scholar known for his profound association with Gujarat and Ahmedabad, passed away on August 20, 2023, at the age of 81. His passing followed a stroke he suffered while in Ahmedabad in January, after which he returned to the United States, where he received care at a facility. Spodek's connection with Ahmedabad spanned nearly six decades. His journey with the city began in 1964 when he arrived as a Fulbright Fellow and was tasked with teaching English at H.K. Arts College for a year. His passion for the city led him to request an extension, resulting in a second year spent in Ahmedabad. Upon returning to the University of Chicago, Spodek completed his Ph.D. thesis on Indian history, focusing on rural-urban integration in Saurashtra. His thesis explored historical relationships and conflicts between merchants, literate professionals, an

Author-Dr.Aishwarya Nair