Author: Albuquerque Teresa
Place: Bombay
Year: 1992
Pages: 215
ISBN: 81-85684-03-0
Subject: Bombay/ Mumbai
Sub-Subject: Bombay
Keyword: Bombay, Commercial Capital, Cotton Trade, Urban Overcrowding, Historical Research
Shelf: C9R5
Accession No: B1638
Contents: Foreword by George Moraes, Introduction, Abbreviations, Chap 1: Fortune Unleashed, Chap 2: House of Cards, Chap 3: Floodgates to Progress, Chap 4: Courts of Law, Chap 5: The Social Whirl, Chap 6: In the Mutiny, Chap 7: New Learning, Chap 8: Foundations of New Bombay, Select Bibliography, Index, List of Illustrations
Abstract: Between 1840 and 1865, Bombay experienced transformative growth, laying the foundations for its emergence as India’s commercial capital. The city’s excellent natural harbour, improved infrastructure, and development of railways and shipping connected it nationally and internationally. The American Civil War boosted Bombay’s cotton trade, leading to economic prosperity despite the eventual crash. Industrialization began with the establishment of textile mills, notably by Cowasjee Dawar, turning Bombay into “India’s Liverpool and Manchester.” The 1861 High Court Act unified the judicial system, while public health saw improvements with drainage reforms, the Vehar Water Works, and the appointment of a Municipal Commissioner. Urban overcrowding and sanitation were tackled, reducing mortality rates significantly. Educational reforms flourished with missionary schools, the establishment of the University of Bombay (1857), and the rise of female education. The press, both English and vernacular, supported social reform and early political awareness, exemplified by the Bombay Association. The period was thoroughly documented by historian Teresa Albuquerque as part of a ten-volume series on Bombay’s history, a project initiated during the 1965 tercentenary of the city’s cession. Her scholarly work, particularly on the Christian and Goan communities, reflects her deep commitment to historical research and writing.