Economy & Ecology in A Bengal District Burdwan 1880-1947 By Achintya Kumar Dutta

Book Description

About the Authors

Achintya Kumar Dutta, born in 1961, is a Reader and Head of the Department of History at The University of Burdwan. His current book stems from his doctoral research at Jadavpur University. In addition to publishing articles in scholarly journals, he has edited works like Intellectual History: A New Understanding and Ethnicity, Nations and Minorities: The South Asian Scenario. He is also researching the social history of kala-azar in Northeast India as part of a post-doctoral Commonwealth Fellowship in the U.K.

Preface

This volume is a revised edition of Dutta's doctoral dissertation, for which he expresses deep gratitude to his supervisor, Professor Chittabrata Palit, for his guidance and support. The work examines the economic and ecological changes in a specific district during British rule, with a focus on Bengal. Dutta acknowledges the influence of renowned historians on agrarian history in shaping his interpretations. He thanks various colleagues and friends for their stimulating discussions and assistance, particularly those who shared valuable insights during interviews.

Introduction

The introduction highlights the growing interest in local history within historical research, particularly in India. Dutta notes that while macro history often overlooks local diversities, studying local history enhances understanding of national narratives. His choice of Burdwan district for this study is rooted in its rich historical significance, including its prominence as a major revenue payer during both the Mughal and colonial periods. The zamindars of Burdwan played a crucial role in Bengal's economy, even influencing the financial landscape of Calcutta. Additionally, the district is the birthplace of notable historical figures, making it a compelling subject for exploration. Dutta aims to illuminate how local histories contribute to a broader understanding of regional and national developments.

Economy & Ecology in A Bengal District Burdwan 1880-1947 By Achintya Kumar Dutta