Explanation: The Partition of Bengal in 1905 was a significant event in the history of British India, initiated by Lord Curzon, the Viceroy of India. The partition aimed to improve administrative efficiency by dividing the Bengal Presidency into two provinces: Eastern Bengal and Assam, and the rest of Bengal. The division was based on religious and linguistic lines, with the eastern part being predominantly Muslim and the western part being predominantly Hindu.
Despite the partition, Calcutta remained the capital of the Bengal region. Calcutta, now known as Kolkata, was a major administrative and commercial center. It was the seat of the Government of Bengal and the Calcutta High Court. The city was also a hub for trade, education, and culture, making it a natural choice to remain the capital.
The partition led to widespread protests and unrest, particularly among the Hindu population, who saw it as a divide-and-rule strategy by the British to weaken the nationalist movement. The Swadeshi Movement, which advocated for self-reliance and boycott of British goods, was a direct response to the partition.
It is important to note that the partition was eventually annulled in 1911, and Bengal was reunified. However, the capital of the Bengal Presidency was moved from Calcutta to Delhi, which was to become the new capital of British India. This move was part of the British strategy to shift the center of power away from the nationalist movements in Bengal.
In summary, despite the Partition of Bengal in 1905, Calcutta remained the capital of the Bengal region. The city's significance as an administrative, commercial, and cultural center ensured its continued role as the capital, even after the partition. Understanding the historical context and the administrative decisions of the British colonial government is crucial to comprehending the role of Calcutta during this period.