Modern History of Bihar - 2 - BPSC (Bihar) MCQ

The closure of the Alamganj factory in 1621 was primarily due to political unrest and local opposition, not military defeats or financial losses. The factory faced significant challenges due to the lack of strong administrative control and resistance from local powers, which led to the East India Company temporarily abandoning it. While financial losses may have contributed, they were not the primary reason for its closure. The political environment in the region made it difficult for the Company to maintain operations.

In 1697, the British East India Company received permission from Azimushan, the Mughal official, to re-establish its factory in Patna. This decision marked a turning point in the Company’s efforts to resume trade in the region, especially focusing on the lucrative saltpetre and opium markets. Shah Alam II was not involved in granting this permission, and while the re-establishment was critical for the Company’s trade interests, it was not directly tied to Shah Alam II’s authorization.

The repeated closures and reopenings of the Patna factory in 1713, 1717, and 1718 were primarily due to changing political and economic conditions in Bihar. Shifting power dynamics, local resistance, and evolving trade strategies of the East India Company impacted the factory's operations. Contrary to statement 1, financial instability within the Company was not a direct cause. Similarly, statement 3 is incorrect as religious conflicts did not play a significant role in these events. The East India Company adapted to the challenging environment, eventually stabilizing its trade network in Patna.

The East India Company's factory in Patna was closed in 1750 due to the pressure exerted by Nawab Alivardi Khan. Alivardi Khan's control over Bengal and Bihar and his growing opposition to British influence in the region led to the closure of the Patna factory. His actions were part of the broader tensions between the British and local rulers during the mid-18th century.

The Battle of Buxar, fought on October 22, 1764, involved the British East India Company against a combined force of the Mughals, Mir Qasim (Nawab of Bengal), and Shuja-ud-Daula (Nawab of Awadh). This battle was crucial as it solidified British control over Bengal and Bihar, laying the foundation for their dominance in India. Despite being outnumbered, the British East India Company emerged victorious, which significantly strengthened their position in the region.