Port Decay by the end of the eighteenth century:
Background:
During the 18th century, several ports in India were vital centers of trade and commerce. However, due to various factors, some of these ports decayed and lost their prominence by the end of the century.
Explanation:
Among the given options, the port that decayed by the end of the eighteenth century is Surat. Here's why:
1. Calcutta:
- Calcutta (now Kolkata) was one of the major ports during the British colonial rule.
- It gained prominence in the late 18th century and continued to grow in importance during the 19th century.
- Calcutta became the capital of British India in 1772, indicating its significance.
- Therefore, Calcutta did not decay by the end of the eighteenth century.
2. Goa:
- Goa was a Portuguese colony and served as an important port for trade during the 18th century.
- While its prominence declined over time, it did not decay completely by the end of the eighteenth century.
- Goa continued to be a significant port in Portuguese India until the mid-20th century.
- Therefore, Goa did not decay by the end of the eighteenth century.
3. Surat:
- Surat was a thriving port during the Mughal period and the early years of British rule in India.
- It was a major center for trade and commerce, especially in textiles and diamonds.
- However, by the end of the eighteenth century, Surat's importance as a port declined significantly.
- Various factors, including the shift of power to other regions and the emergence of new ports, led to its decay.
- As a result, Surat lost its prominence as a major port by the end of the eighteenth century.
4. None of the above:
- This option is not correct as Surat is the port that decayed by the end of the eighteenth century, as explained above.
Conclusion:
Based on the given options, the port that decayed by the end of the eighteenth century is Surat. Calcutta and Goa did not decay by that time.