In the late 18th century, Calcutta, Bombay, and Madras rose in importance as Presidency cities and were the centers of British power.

1. Calcutta:
Calcutta, now known as Kolkata, was the capital of British India during the late 18th century. It became the center of British power in the region due to its strategic location and thriving trade. The British East India Company established a trading post in Calcutta in the early 17th century, and it gradually grew in prominence. Calcutta became a Presidency city, serving as the administrative center for the Bengal Presidency. It was an important hub for trade, commerce, and politics.

2. Bombay:
Bombay, now known as Mumbai, also became a Presidency city in the late 18th century. It was an important center of British power due to its strategic location on the western coast of India. The British East India Company established a factory in Bombay in the early 17th century, and it grew into a major trading port. Bombay became the capital of the Bombay Presidency and played a crucial role in the British Empire's economic and political affairs. It developed into a cosmopolitan city with a diverse population and a thriving economy.

3. Madras:
Madras, now known as Chennai, was the third Presidency city in late 18th-century India. The British East India Company established a trading post in Madras in the early 17th century, and it grew into an important center of British power. Madras became the capital of the Madras Presidency and served as a major administrative, military, and commercial hub. It was strategically located on the southeastern coast of India and played a vital role in British trade and governance.

These three Presidency cities, Calcutta, Bombay, and Madras, formed the backbone of British rule in India during the late 18th century. They were centers of political, economic, and administrative power for the British East India Company. The establishment of these cities allowed the British to expand their influence and control over various regions in India. They played a significant role in shaping India's colonial history and served as important hubs for trade, commerce, and governance.

Answer:
Introduction:
In the late 18th century, Calcutta, Bombay, and Madras rose in importance as Presidency cities and were the centers of British power in India.
Explanation:
During this period, the British East India Company established its dominance over various regions in India, and these Presidency cities became significant centers of administration, trade, and power. Here is a detailed explanation of the cities mentioned:
1. Calcutta:
- Calcutta, now known as Kolkata, was the capital of British India until 1911.
- It was the most important center of British trade and administration in Eastern India.
- The city served as a major port and played a crucial role in the British colonial economy.
- It was also a hub of cultural, intellectual, and political activities.
2. Bombay:
- Bombay, now known as Mumbai, was an important center of British power on the western coast of India.
- The city served as a major port and played a crucial role in the British colonial economy, particularly in cotton and textile trade.
- Bombay was also a significant center for manufacturing and industry.
- It became the capital of the Bombay Presidency in 1818.
3. Madras:
- Madras, now known as Chennai, was the capital of the Madras Presidency.
- It served as a major center for trade and administration in South India.
- Madras was an important hub for shipbuilding, textile industries, and trade in goods like spices and indigo.
- The city's strategic location on the Coromandel Coast made it a vital center for British power in the region.
Conclusion:
During the late 18th century, Calcutta, Bombay, and Madras emerged as Presidency cities and centers of British power in India. These cities played significant roles in trade, administration, and the overall colonial economy.