Bengal Subah

The Bengal Subah was a subdivision of the Mughal Empire encompassing much of the Bengal region, which includes present-day Bangladesh, the Indian states of West Bengal, Bihar, and parts of Odisha. It was established following the Battle of Rajmahal in 1576 and lasted until the Battle of Plassey in 1757, which marked the beginning of British colonial rule in India.

History

The Bengal Subah was one of the wealthiest and most prosperous provinces of the Mughal Empire. It was established after the Mughal victory over the Bengal Sultanate at the Battle of Rajmahal. The region was known for its rich agricultural output, particularly in rice, and its thriving trade in silk and cotton textiles.

Mughal Administration

The administration of Bengal was headed by a Subahdar, who was appointed by the Mughal Emperor. The Subahdar was responsible for maintaining law and order, collecting taxes, and overseeing the administration of justice. The capital of the Bengal Subah was initially at Rajmahal, but it was later moved to Dhaka due to its strategic location and commercial importance.

Economic Prosperity

Bengal was a major center of trade and commerce during the Mughal period. The region's fertile land and extensive river network facilitated the production and transportation of goods. Bengal's textiles, particularly its muslin, were highly prized in international markets. The region also had a significant shipbuilding industry, which contributed to its economic strength.

Decline and Fall

The decline of the Bengal Subah began in the early 18th century as the Mughal Empire weakened. The rise of regional powers and the increasing influence of European trading companies, particularly the British East India Company, further destabilized the region. The Battle of Plassey in 1757 marked the end of the Bengal Subah as a Mughal province and the beginning of British dominance in India.

Legacy

The Bengal Subah left a lasting impact on the region's culture, economy, and society. The administrative and economic systems established during the Mughal period continued to influence the region even after the advent of British rule. The rich cultural heritage of Bengal, including its art, architecture, and literature, owes much to the Mughal era.

See also

• Mughal Empire
• Bengal Sultanate
• Battle of Plassey
• British East India Company

References

• Eaton, Richard M. The Rise of Islam and the Bengal Frontier, 1204–1760. University of California Press, 1993.
• Chatterjee, Kumkum. The Cultures of History in Early Modern India: Persianization and Mughal Culture in Bengal. Oxford University Press, 2009.

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  Map of the Nawabs of Bengal
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  De handelsloge van de VOC in Hougly in Bengalen
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  Humayun (left) with his father Babur (right), painted circa 1640
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  Emperor Akbar
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  Jahangir of India
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  Lord Clive meeting with Mir Jafar after the Battle of Plassey
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  Echoes from Old Calcutta
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  Shah 'Alam conveying the grant of the Diwani to Lord Clive
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  The Nawab's artillery at Plassey
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  Bengal Sultanate Flag