Kolkata, formerly known as Calcutta, is India’s largest city and one of its most important cultural and economic centers. Located on the east bank of the Hooghly River, Kolkata has a long and fascinating history that dates back to the 17th century. This article will explore the city’s rich past, from its founding by the East India Company to its role in the Indian independence movement.
The city of Kolkata was founded in 1690 by Job Charnock, an employee of the East India Company. Charnock was searching for a suitable port on the Bay of Bengal and chose a site on the Hooghly River. He named the settlement Calcutta, after the village of Kalikata, which was located nearby.
Calcutta quickly grew into an important trading center and the East India Company soon established its headquarters in the city. The company also built a fort, called Fort William, to protect the city from attack. In 1772, the British government declared Calcutta the capital of British India.
During the 19th century, Calcutta became a center for education and culture. The city was home to a number of universities, including the University of Calcutta, which was founded in 1857. It also became a major center of the Bengali Renaissance, a period of intellectual and artistic activity that began in the late 19th century.
Calcutta was also at the center of the Indian independence movement. In 1905, a major protest against the partition of Bengal was held in the city. This protest marked the beginning of the Indian struggle for independence from British rule. Later, during the Non-Cooperation Movement of 1920-22, Calcutta was a major center of protest and civil disobedience.
In 1947, India gained independence from British rule. The city of Calcutta was renamed Kolkata and it became the capital of the newly formed state of West Bengal. Since then, Kolkata has continued to be one of India’s most important cities. It is a major center of industry, commerce, education, and culture. It is also home to some of India’s most iconic landmarks, including the Victoria Memorial, the Howrah Bridge, and the Indian Museum.
Kolkata is a city with a long and fascinating history. From its founding by the East India Company to its role in the Indian independence movement, Kolkata has played an important role in India’s past and present.