Trade in colonial Assam

It looks like you're interested in the topic of trade in colonial Assam as covered by C. Jaysagar Wary. Though I don't have access to the specific text by Wary, I can provide a general overview of what such a study might cover based on the historical context and common research themes.

Overview of Trade in Colonial Assam:

1. Historical Context:

• British Colonial Rule: Assam came under British rule in the early 19th century, particularly following the Treaty of Yandabo in 1826, which ended the First Anglo-Burmese War. The British established Assam as part of their expanding Indian empire, which impacted local trade dynamics.
• Geographical Significance: Assam's location, with its proximity to Southeast Asia and its rich natural resources, made it a significant area for trade.

2. Trade Routes and Networks:

• Local and Regional Trade: Trade in colonial Assam involved a network of local markets and regional trade routes. The Brahmaputra River, a major waterway, was crucial for transporting goods.
• Trans-Himalayan Trade: Assam was part of the larger trans-Himalayan trade routes, connecting India with Tibet and China. This trade often included commodities such as tea, silk, and spices.

3. Key Commodities:

• Tea: One of the most significant aspects of trade in colonial Assam was the growth of the tea industry. The British established large tea estates, which became a major export commodity.
• Silk and Handicrafts: Assam was known for its silk production, particularly muga and eri silks, which were traded both locally and internationally.
• Timber and Other Resources: The rich forests of Assam provided timber and other resources, contributing to the local economy and trade.

4. Economic and Social Impact:

• Economic Changes: The colonial period saw the transformation of Assam’s economy from a subsistence-based system to one increasingly oriented towards cash crops and export-oriented industries.
• Socio-Economic Impact: The introduction of colonial trade practices had a profound impact on local communities, including changes in traditional livelihoods, labor conditions on tea estates, and shifts in local market dynamics.

5. Administration and Policy:

• British Policies: The British administration implemented policies to facilitate trade, such as developing infrastructure (roads and railways) and establishing trading regulations.
• Impact on Indigenous Traders: The colonial trade policies often marginalized local traders and artisans, integrating them into a system dominated by British commercial interests.

6. Post-Colonial Reflection:

• Legacy of Colonial Trade: The effects of colonial trade policies continued to influence Assam’s economy and trade patterns even after independence. Understanding this historical context is crucial for comprehending the region’s contemporary economic situation.

For specific insights and detailed analysis, I recommend accessing C. Jaysagar Wary's work directly, which should provide a comprehensive examination of trade in colonial Assam, including primary sources, statistical data, and nuanced interpretations of historical events.