Company Bahadur Part 6 Warren Hastings Section I: The Beginning of a Career

Canberra, 15th March 2024 There is no doubt that an understanding of the past can be a catalyst for a greater understanding of the present and at times even provide a pointer to the future. History, in its broadest sweep goes beyond the actions of individuals. However, a view through the prism of human activities […]

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Europeans in India Part 11 Annexation of Bengal Section VI: Encounter at Plassey

Canberra, 05 September 2023 When the Nawab came to know that Watts had left Murshidabad, he once again invited Jean Law the French commander, to return with his forces. Once again Law refused to move back. The possibility of French help, especially with de Bussy believed to be on the move from Orissa, kept Siraj’s […]

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Europeans in India Part 11 Annexation of Bengal Section III Battle of Plassey: Edging to War

Canberra, 7 August 2023 The Nawab’s forces devastated Calcutta leaving its elegant buildings and pleasant gardens in ruins. The English claimed that they had no resources left and asked for a moratorium on debts from the Company Directors in London. However, giving the lie to the claim, reconstruction efforts started immediately and proceeded at a […]

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Europeans in India Part 11 Annexation of Bengal Section I: Prelude to Confrontation

Canberra, 10 July 2023 The English East India Company first established a factory in Bengal in 1650–51. It quickly developed a flourishing trade. In 1686, the Company attempted to free itself of Mughal control, capturing Chittagong and starting to move independently. This move was perpetuated by the intransigence of Company officials in Bengal, supported by […]

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Europeans in India Part 9 The French Arrive in India Section II: The Rise of French Power – Early Period

Canberra, 6 April 2023 In 1664, the 50-year monopoly granted to the French East Indies Company by King Louis XIV of France came to an end. Even with the royal authorisation of a monopoly, the company had not been functioning well and was forced to rely on private speculators to continue trading in the East. […]

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