Birth of a Colonial City
Birth of a Colonial City

Author: Ranjit Sen

Publisher: Taylor & Francis

Published: 2019-03-04

Total Pages: 225

ISBN-13: 0429638981

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Long before Calcutta was ‘discovered’ by Job Charnock, it thrived by the Hugli since times immemorial. This book, and its companion Colonial Calcutta, is a biographical account of the when, the how and the what of a global city and its emergence under colonial rule in the 1800s. Ranjit Sen traces the story of how three clustered villages became the hub of the British Empire and a centre of colonial imagination. He examines the historical and geopolitical factors that were significant in securing its prominence, and its subsequent urbanization which was a colonial experience without an antecedent. Further, it sheds light on Calcutta’s early search for identity — how it superseded interior towns and flourished as the seat of power for its hinterland; developed its early institutions, while its municipal administration slowly burgeoned. A sharp analysis of the colonial enterprise, this volume lays bare the underbelly of the British Raj. It will be of great interest to scholars and researchers of modern history, South Asian history, urban studies, British Studies and area studies.

Fort William Calcutta's Crowning Glory
Fort William Calcutta's Crowning Glory

Author: M. L. Augustine

Publisher: Prabhat Prakashan

Published: 2023-10-01

Total Pages: 224

ISBN-13: 9788187100102

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Step into the vibrant tapestry of colonial India with "Fort William Calcutta's Crowning Glory" by M. L. Augustine, a captivating journey through the storied history of one of the subcontinent's most iconic landmarks. Prepare to be transported back in time to the bustling streets of 18th-century Calcutta, where the British East India Company established its stronghold in the form of Fort William. Join author M. L. Augustine as he delves into the rich tapestry of this historic fort, chronicling its rise to prominence and its enduring legacy as a symbol of British colonial power. As you explore the pages of "Fort William Calcutta's Crowning Glory," you'll encounter a fascinating array of historical figures and events, each brought to life with meticulous research and vivid storytelling. From the architectural splendor of the fort itself to the political intrigue and cultural exchange that defined its heyday, Augustine paints a vivid portrait of a bygone era. Themes of power, conquest, and cultural exchange permeate the narrative, offering readers a thought-provoking reflection on the complexities of colonialism and its lasting impact on the Indian subcontinent. Through insightful analysis and evocative prose, Augustine sheds light on the multifaceted dynamics that shaped the history of Fort William and its surrounding environs. Character analysis reveals the personalities and motivations of the key figures who played a role in the fort's history, from the ambitious administrators of the British East India Company to the local inhabitants who witnessed the ebb and flow of colonial rule. Augustine's portrayal of these individuals offers a nuanced perspective on the complexities of empire and the human experience. The overall tone of "Fort William Calcutta's Crowning Glory" is one of reverence and nostalgia, reflecting Augustine's deep appreciation for the historical significance of the fort and its enduring legacy. His writing is characterized by its vivid imagery and compelling narrative, drawing readers into a world of intrigue, adventure, and discovery. Since its publication, "Fort William Calcutta's Crowning Glory" has been hailed as a definitive account of one of India's most iconic landmarks, revered for its meticulous research and engaging storytelling. Its enduring relevance continues to resonate with readers interested in the history of colonial India and the legacy of British imperialism. Whether you're a history buff or simply curious about the colonial era in India, "Fort William Calcutta's Crowning Glory" offers an immersive and enlightening reading experience that will transport you to another time and place. Don't miss your chance to embark on this unforgettable journey through the annals of Indian history. Grab your copy now and discover the secrets of Fort William.

Calcutta
Calcutta

Author: Krishna Dutta

Publisher: Signal Books

Published: 2003

Total Pages: 278

ISBN-13: 9781902669595

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In the popular imagination, Calcutta is a packed and pestilential sprawl, made notorious by the Black Hole and the works of Mother Teresa. Kipling called it a City of Dreadful Night, and a century later V.S. Naipaul, Gunter Grass and Louis Malle revived its hellish image. This is the place where the West first truly encountered the East. Founded in the 1690s by East India Company merchants beside the Hugli River, Calcutta grew into India's capital during the Raj and the second city of the British Empire. Named the City of Palaces for its neoclassical mansions, Calcutta was the city of Clive, Hastings, Macaulay and Curzon. It was also home to extraordinary Bengalis such as Rabindranath Tagore, the first Asian Nobel laureate, and Satyajit Ray, among the geniuses of world cinema. Above all, Calcutta (renamed Kolkata in 2001) is a city of extremes, where exquisite refinement rubs shoulders with coarse commercialism and political violence. Krishna Dutta explores these multiple paradoxes, giving personal insight into Calcutta's unique history and modern identity as reflected in its architecture, literature, cinema and music. CITY OF ARTISTS: Modern India's cultural capital; home city of