In order to protect their trading posts, the British increased their military presence in India and commenced the conquest. The whole operation initiated under the rule of Queen Elizabeth I, in the 17th century, disguised as a trading effort to maximize the trade-in spices and silk. Textile, pottery, making jewelry, cutting and shaping precious stones, clothing, to name a few.

Many industries flourished as Indian goods were in high demand all over the world. Before the “concealed” invasion took place, India was regarded as the world’s top superpower with 23% of the world gross domestic product (GDP). It is noteworthy that the British capitalized on the collapse of the Mughal Empire and imposed their interests in India.Ī culturally, financially, and resourcefully rich country put under the thumb of a strong military force. Supposedly, this trading company was there to help Indians reclaim their national identity, but it was all just a wicked game.īribery, stealing, embezzlement, extortion, forced labor, and murder were the primary tools that brought to pass the need for reforms!īut, before we get into that, let’s do a quick recap of the Indian subjugation. Will Durante, a passionate and young American philosopher, who first landed on the shores of India in 1930, discovered the economic calamities induced by the British East India Company. Let’s delve into it! The full-scale loot of India Tharoor provides a critical overview of the events that shaped India’s historical curve, and uses data in order to illustrate a point. Indians, in particular, are curious whether their ancestors could have done something to fend the British off, and what were the dire consequences of falling under their rule. Also, there’s rarely a person in the world who knows nothing of India’s history and cultural richness.

Most Indians nowadays still feel like the truth about the British “occupation” is somewhat distorted.

Shashi tharoor empire