Modern History of Odisha | Odisha State PSC (OPSC): Preparation - OPSC OCS (Odisha) PDF Download

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CHAPTER 3
With the advent of modern era, Odisha came under European
powers like Portuguese and British. Although, Portuguese were
the first European to build factories in Odisha, but it's the
British East India Company which ruled over Odisha. They
captured Odisha in a strategic way.
The phase of Odishan history is dynamic because of the resistance and revolt faced
by British Administration. It includes the contribution of Odisha in national
struggle for Independence of India.
Modern History of Odisha begins with the advent of European powers in the state.
The Portuguese were the first to establish their settlements in Pipli but were soon
overpowered by the Britishers. After the winning the Battle of Buxar in 1765,
British rule was firmly established in Odisha. However it was marked by various
rebellions. These were Paika and Khurda Rebellion.
Many tribal uprisings also occurred in Odisha like Ghumsar and Bhuyan Uprising.
The impact of the Revolt of 1857 was felt in Odisha also as many people
participated in it. But in 1866, Odisha was struck with a great famine. The death toll
estimated to be one million. After this, the Britishers came up with educational
reforms. Many socio-religious movements started in Odisha at that time like Satya
Mahima Dharma, Brahmo Movement, etc.
The Portuguese in Odisha
The first Europeans to enter Odisha were Portuguese. They established their
settlements at Pipli in Balasore district around 1625 AD. Their community
flourished in the sixteenth century. They build churches and some factories. The
Britishers could not establish their settlements properly due to the presence of
Portuguese till seventeenth century. Then from the middle of seventeenth century
Britishers became powerful.