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The section examines the historical context of industrialisation in India, particularly in textiles, discussing the transition from a vibrant pre-colonial market to a dependent colonial economy shaped by the East India Company's monopolistic practices. It discusses the challenges faced by weavers and artisans, the emergence of mills, and the implications of these changes for local economies.
This section outlines the intricate relationship between industrialisation and colonial rule, particularly in the Indian textile industry. Colonial control altered existing trade networks, as Indian merchants gradually lost power, leading to the decline of traditional ports like Surat in favor of Bombay and Calcutta, which served European interests. The East India Company’s monopoly on cotton exports shifted power dynamics, employing gomasthas to control weavers directly, effectively disrupting local relationships and leading to widespread poverty in weaving communities.
Overall, the narrative illustrates how industrialisation in India was not a mere transfer of technology but involved a complex interplay of economic control, decline in traditional practices, and significant socio-economic consequences.
Decline of Traditional Trade: The control of British trade monopolized the local markets, significantly impacting Indian merchants.
Role of Gomasthas: Gomasthas replaced traditional merchants and enforced East India Company rules on weavers.
Impact on Weavers: The financial strain and loss of autonomy led to revolts among weavers and the eventual decline of their craft.
When trade was bright, India led the fight, until the British came, and changed the game.
In the thriving bazaars, Indian weavers crafted unique fabrics, until the British imposed their rules, leading to strife and hardship within the communities.
C-G-W (Colonialism, Gomasthas, Weavers): Remember the key shifts in India's textile industry.
The significant decline in cotton textile exports from India from 33% of total exports to just 3% by 1850.
The increasing conflicts between weavers and gomasthas, leading to social disruption in communities.
Term: Gomastha
Definition: A paid servant of the East India Company responsible for supervising weavers and controlling the production process.
A paid servant of the East India Company responsible for supervising weavers and controlling the production process.
Term: ProtoIndustrialisation
Definition: An early phase of industrial production primarily based in homes and small workshops before the rise of factories.
An early phase of industrial production primarily based in homes and small workshops before the rise of factories.
Term: Monopoly
Definition: The exclusive control over a commodity or service in a market, limiting competition.
The exclusive control over a commodity or service in a market, limiting competition.