Why did indians artisans lose the support of the local aristocracy aft...
New land system of the British ruler also created a serious impact on the Indian economy. During the East India Company rule, the company administrators imposed land revenue at exorbitant rates and thereby realised larger returns from land. Thereafter, the British Government introduced the land settlement in 1793.
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Why did indians artisans lose the support of the local aristocracy aft...
(1) The agents of the English East India company began to force Indian peasants to grow cash crops like cotton ,Indigo ,tea, coffee as raw material and sell it to them at low prices.
(2). The British began to promote the sale of their factory made goods in India -The impossible heavy duties on Indian goods entering Britain but exempted British goods entry in India from paying duties.
Why did indians artisans lose the support of the local aristocracy aft...
Loss of Support from Local Aristocracy after British Rule in India
After the British established their rule in India, the local Indian artisans lost the support of the local aristocracy for several reasons. This led to a significant decline in their socio-economic status and the overall decline of traditional Indian craftsmanship.
1. Economic Exploitation
The British colonial rule in India brought about significant economic changes. The British pursued a policy of economic exploitation, which prioritized their own industries and trade interests over local Indian artisans. They imposed heavy taxes, tariffs, and duties on Indian handicrafts, making it difficult for artisans to sustain their livelihoods. As a result, the local aristocracy, who were traditionally patrons of the artisans, faced economic constraints and were unable to continue their support.
2. Western Influence and Industrialization
The British rule introduced Western influence and industrialization to India. With the advent of modern machinery and mass-produced goods from Britain, the demand for traditional Indian handicrafts declined. The local aristocracy, influenced by the British culture and fashion, started favoring Western-style products over indigenous crafts. This shift in preference further marginalized the artisans and reduced their societal standing.
3. Loss of Political Power
The British not only controlled the economy but also established their political dominance in India. The local aristocracy, who were once powerful rulers or influential figures, lost their political power and were relegated to subordinate positions under British rule. As a result, their ability to support and promote local artisans diminished, as they themselves were subject to British authority and policies.
4. Modern Education and Changing Social Dynamics
Under British rule, modern education was introduced in India, which emphasized English language proficiency and Western knowledge systems. This led to a shift in social dynamics, as the educated elite sought white-collar jobs rather than traditional occupations. The younger generation of the local aristocracy, influenced by British education and aspirations, no longer saw artisanal work as a viable career option. Consequently, their support for the artisans declined.
5. Loss of Cultural Identity
The British rule brought significant cultural changes to India. The local aristocracy, aspiring to adopt British manners and lifestyle, began to distance themselves from traditional Indian customs and practices. This cultural alienation led to a decline in the patronage of Indian artisans, as the local aristocracy increasingly favored Western aesthetics and products.
In conclusion, the loss of support from the local aristocracy after the British established their rule in India can be attributed to economic exploitation, western influence and industrialization, loss of political power, changing social dynamics, and the erosion of cultural identity. These factors collectively led to the marginalization of Indian artisans and the decline of traditional craftsmanship in India.
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