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Which century saw the rise of Bombay, Madras and Calcutta?

Category: Miscellaneous Indian Gk

Correct Answer: C) 18th century.

Exam Relevance: UPSC, IAS, Civil Services, State PSC, History Exams

Difficulty: Moderate

Concept notes:

The 18th century was a period of significant urban development in India, particularly for the cities of Bombay (now Mumbai), Madras (now Chennai), and Calcutta (now Kolkata). These cities rose to prominence under British colonial rule, becoming major commercial and administrative centers.

Common Mistakes:

Students may confuse the 18th century with the 17th century, as both periods saw significant British activity in India.
Some might think the 21st century is correct, mistaking modern development for the initial rise of these cities.
Others might choose "None of the above" if they are not familiar with the historical context of these cities.

Explanation:

The rise of Bombay, Madras, and Calcutta as major cities in India is closely tied to the expansion of British colonial rule in the 18th century. These cities were not only important for their strategic locations but also for their roles in trade and administration.

**Bombay (Mumbai):**

Bombay was ceded to the British East India Company in 1661 as part of the dowry of Catherine of Braganza when she married Charles II of England. However, it was in the 18th century that Bombay began to flourish. The city's natural harbor and strategic location made it a crucial port for trade, especially with the East Indies. The British East India Company invested heavily in the city's infrastructure, including the construction of the Bombay Castle and the development of the port facilities. By the end of the 18th century, Bombay had become a major commercial center and a key point for the British in India.

**Madras (Chennai):**

Madras was founded in 1639 by the British East India Company as a trading post. The city's growth was gradual, but it accelerated in the 18th century. The British East India Company established Fort St. George in Madras, which became the administrative center for the region. The city's location on the Coromandel Coast made it an important port for trade with Southeast Asia and Europe. The 18th century saw significant development in Madras, including the expansion of its port facilities and the establishment of educational institutions like the Madras Observatory.

**Calcutta (Kolkata):**

Calcutta was founded in 1690 by the British East India Company as a trading post. The city's growth was rapid, and by the 18th century, it had become the capital of British India. The British East India Company established Fort William in Calcutta, which served as the administrative center for the region. The city's location on the Hooghly River made it a crucial port for trade with the rest of India and the world. The 18th century saw significant development in Calcutta, including the construction of the Howrah Bridge and the establishment of educational institutions like the Hindu College.

In summary, the 18th century was a period of significant urban development for Bombay, Madras, and Calcutta. These cities rose to prominence under British colonial rule, becoming major commercial and administrative centers. The British East India Company played a crucial role in the development of these cities, establishing them as key points for trade and governance. The 18th century marked the beginning of their rise to prominence, which continued into the 19th and 20th centuries.

Option Analysis:

Option A: This option is incorrect. The 21st century is far too recent for the initial rise of Bombay, Madras, and Calcutta. These cities were already established and had a long history by the 21st century. The 21st century has seen continued development and modernization, but the cities' rise to prominence occurred much earlier, in the 18th century.
Option B: This option is incorrect. While the 17th century saw the beginning of British presence in India, the significant rise of Bombay, Madras, and Calcutta as major cities occurred in the 18th century. The 17th century was a period of initial exploration and trade, but the cities did not reach their full potential until the 18th century when they became key centers of British colonial administration and commerce.
Option C: This option is correct. The 18th century was a crucial period for the development of Bombay, Madras, and Calcutta. These cities grew rapidly under British colonial rule, becoming major ports and administrative centers. The British East India Company played a significant role in the development of these cities, establishing them as key points for trade and governance.
Option D: This option is incorrect. The 18th century is the correct period for the rise of Bombay, Madras, and Calcutta. Choosing "None of the above" would be incorrect as it overlooks the historical significance of the 18th century in the development of these cities.

Mnemonic: BMC: Bombay, Madras, Calcutta - 18th century boom

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Which century saw the rise of Bombay, Madras and Calcutta?

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