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Proclamation Pillar, Prayagraj (Allahabad) holywaters.in
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| .Transition to British Raj, Proclamation, 1858 Allahabad.India slidesharecdn.com |
The rich history of Allahabad (now Prayagraj) reflects a fascinating blend of Mughal and British legacies, marked by significant events, fierce battles for power, and the fall of dynasties. The monuments left behind reveal a unique heritage.
Mughal Era - Foundation and Early History - Founded by Emperor Akbar as Ilahabas, Allahabad became notable when Akbar's son, Prince Salim (later Emperor Jahangir), held his coronation at the Allahabad Fort in 1600 CE. The city grew in prominence as a strategic and administrative center.
Struggles for Power - Over the following decades, Allahabad was a battleground for Mughal succession, with significant conflicts involving Prince Khurram (Shah Jahan) and Aurangzeb, among others. These internal struggles showcased the city’s strategic importance within the empire.
Battle of Buxar - In 1764, the combined forces of Mughal Emperor Shah Alam II and regional allies lost to the British East India Company at the Battle of Buxar. This defeat led to the Treaty of Allahabad in 1765, which confined the Mughal emperor to the fort and handed over significant revenue control to the British.
British Era -Treaty of Allahabad- Signed on 12th August 1765 between Mughal Emperor Shah Alam II and Lord Robert Clive of the East India Company, this treaty marked the beginning of British administrative authority in India. The treaty granted the British East India Company the right to collect revenue from the provinces of Bengal, Bihar, and Orissa, solidifying their control over the Indian subcontinent.
Revolt of 1857 - Allahabad played a pivotal role during the Revolt of 1857, with significant uprisings and brutal reprisals, particularly by General James Neill. The city witnessed intense conflict as part of the larger Indian struggle against the East India Company’s oppressive rule. The rebellion, known as the First War of Indian Independence, was eventually suppressed by the British after a prolonged and bloody struggle, leading to the dissolution of the East India Company and the establishment of direct British rule over India.
A Historical Landmark: Minto Park - Proclamation of Queen Victoria: Minto Park, now known as Pandit Madan Mohan Malaviya Park, on the banks of the Yamuna River, is an important landmark in Indian history. On November 1, 1858, Queen Victoria’s proclamation was read out here, marking the beginning of the British Raj. The Proclamation Pillar in the park commemorates this event, bearing inscriptions of Queen Victoria’s message, which assured Indian princes and subjects of the British government’s intention to respect their rights and traditions, and promised that Indians would be treated equally under British law.
Continued British Rule and Indian Struggle- Despite the promises made in Queen Victoria’s proclamation, the British administration continued to enforce policies that caused significant suffering and discontent among the Indian populace. Notable atrocities included the Jallianwala Bagh Massacre in 1919, the imposition of taxes on common salt, the forced participation of India in World Wars I and II, and the Bengal Famine of 1943, exacerbated by British policies.
Significance of the Proclamation -The proclamation made in Allahabad is a constant reminder of the complexities of India’s past, the prolonged struggles for freedom, and the eventual emergence of India as an independent nation. It symbolizes the resilience of the Indian people and their struggle against colonial oppression. Despite the dark days under British rule, the spirit of resistance and the quest for justice remained strong, leading to India’s independence in 1947.
Allahabad’s rich historical tapestry, woven with threads of Mughal grandeur and British colonialism, stands as a testament to the city’s significant role in shaping India’s histor
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