Manchester Comes to India
In the late 18th century, India was known for its high-quality textiles, dominating global trade. However, by the early 19th century, Indian textile exports faced significant challenges due to competition from the burgeoning cotton industries in England, particularly Manchester.
Key Points Covered
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Decline in Indian Textile Exports: The share of Indian piece-goods in exports plummeted from 33% in 1811-12 to 3% by1850-51. The rapid industrialization in Britain, particularly in Manchester, led to cheaper, machine-produced textiles that flooded Indian markets.
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Government Pressures: British industrialists pressured the East India Company to impose duties on Indian textiles, enabling local Manchester textiles to dominate without facing competition.
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Impact on Indian Weavers: The influx of British textiles resulted in a dual crisis for Indian weavers; a collapse in their export markets and an over-saturated local market made it difficult for them to survive economically. Reports from various regions indicated significant declines in weaving activities, with many weavers migrating or ceasing operations altogether.
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Strategic Shifts in Supply: Weavers also faced challenges in sourcing quality raw cotton following the American Civil War, which led to increased prices that made their production unfeasible. Subsequently, local factories began producing goods that further undermined traditional handloom weaving.
This section critically examines how British industrialization reshaped the textile industry in India, driving local artisans into economic distress and altering traditional trade dynamics.