Part of: West Bengal Gk set 29

When was the British forced to leave Calcutta .....

Category: West Bengal Gk

Hint: Consider the historical context of the Seven Years' War and the Battle of Plassey.

Correct Answer: C) 1756

Exam Relevance: CBSE, ICSE, UPSC, State Board Exams

Difficulty: Moderate

Explanations:

The historical event in question is the capture of Calcutta by the Nawab of Bengal, Siraj-ud-Daulah, in 1756. This event is a significant part of the early colonial history of India and the expansion of British power in the region. The British East India Company had established a trading post in Calcutta, which was a strategic location for their operations in the subcontinent.

In 1756, Siraj-ud-Daulah, the Nawab of Bengal, was concerned about the growing influence and power of the British East India Company. He believed that the company was undermining his authority and was involved in espionage and fortification activities without his permission. As a result, he decided to attack and capture Calcutta.

The capture of Calcutta in 1756 was a significant blow to the British East India Company. However, this event did not mark the end of British influence in the region. Instead, it led to the Battle of Plassey in 1757, where the British, under the leadership of Robert Clive, defeated Siraj-ud-Daulah. This victory allowed the British to establish their dominance over Bengal and eventually expand their control across much of India.

Understanding the historical context of the British leaving Calcutta in 1756 is crucial for comprehending the broader narrative of British colonialism in India. The events of 1756 and 1757 set the stage for the British East India Company's rise to power and the eventual establishment of British rule in India.

Option Analysis:
  • Option A: This option is incorrect. The year 1782 does not correspond to any significant event where the British were forced to leave Calcutta. The British were actually consolidating their power in India during this period.
  • Option B: This option is incorrect. The year 1753 is not associated with any major event involving the British leaving Calcutta. The significant event occurred in 1756, which is the correct answer.
  • Option C: This option is correct. In 1756, the Nawab of Bengal, Siraj-ud-Daulah, attacked and captured Calcutta from the British East India Company, forcing them to leave the city temporarily. This event is part of the lead-up to the Battle of Plassey in 1757.
  • Option D: This option is incorrect. The year 1755 does not mark any significant event where the British were forced to leave Calcutta. The correct year is 1756, when the Nawab of Bengal captured the city.

Mnemonic: Remember the year 1756 as the year when the British were forced to leave Calcutta, coinciding with the Battle of Plassey.

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