History of Dhaka
Dhaka, the capital of Bangladesh, has a rich and complex history that spans more than a thousand years. It has…
Dhaka, the capital of Bangladesh, has a rich and complex history that spans more than a thousand years. It has evolved from a small trading center to a bustling metropolis and the political, cultural, and economic heart of Bangladesh. Dhaka’s history reflects the broader historical trends of the Bengal region and South Asia, including periods of Islamic rule, colonialism, and the struggle for independence.
Early History
Ancient and Early Medieval Periods:
The area around Dhaka has been inhabited since ancient times, with evidence of settlements dating back to the first millennium BCE. The region was part of various ancient kingdoms, including the Maurya and Gupta empires, and later the Pala and Sena dynasties.
During the early medieval period, Dhaka was a small but significant center for trade and commerce, strategically located near the major rivers of the Bengal delta.
Islamic Influence:
The arrival of Islam in Bengal in the 12th century, with the conquest by Turkish and Afghan rulers, began to shape Dhaka’s cultural and political landscape. By the 14th century, the Bengal Sultanate was established, and Dhaka became an important provincial city within the sultanate.
Dhaka’s prominence grew during the Sultanate period, particularly under the rule of Sultan Ghiyasuddin Azam Shah (r. 1389–1410), who promoted trade and built significant infrastructure in the region.
Mughal Period
Mughal Conquest and Growth:
Dhaka’s golden age began in the early 17th century under the Mughal Empire. In 1608, the Mughal Emperor Jahangir appointed Islam Khan Chishti as the Subahdar (governor) of Bengal, and he moved the provincial capital from Rajmahal to Dhaka, renaming it “Jahangirnagar” in honor of the emperor.
Under Mughal rule, Dhaka became one of the most important cities in the empire, known for its thriving trade, especially in textiles. The city was a major center for the production of the famous Dhaka muslin, a fine cotton fabric that was highly prized in both local and international markets.
Urban Development and Architecture:
The Mughals invested in the development of Dhaka, constructing mosques, fortifications, palaces, and gardens. Notable architectural landmarks from this period include the Lalbagh Fort, the Chawk Mosque, and the Huseni Dalan, a Shia Muslim congregation hall.
Dhaka’s population grew significantly, and the city became a melting pot of cultures, with a diverse population that included Bengalis, Persians, Armenians, and Europeans, among others.
Decline Under Later Mughals:
By the early 18th century, the power of the Mughal Empire was waning, and Dhaka began to experience a decline. The capital of Bengal was moved back to Murshidabad, and Dhaka’s importance diminished as political instability and economic challenges took their toll.
Colonial Period
British East India Company:
In the mid-18th century, the British East India Company gradually took control of Bengal following the Battle of Plassey in 1757. Dhaka, like much of Bengal, came under British colonial rule.
Under British control, Dhaka became a district headquarters rather than a major political center, and the city’s economy suffered as the traditional industries, particularly the muslin trade, declined due to competition from British textiles and changes in global trade patterns.
19th Century Revival:
Despite its decline as a political center, Dhaka began to experience a revival in the late 19th century with the growth of the jute trade. The city became an important hub for the processing and export of jute, a major cash crop in Bengal.
The British also invested in infrastructure, building roads, railways, and educational institutions. Dhaka College was established in 1841, and the Ahsan Manzil, the residence of the Nawabs of Dhaka, was constructed during this period.
Cultural and Political Movements:
Dhaka became a center for cultural and political movements in Bengal. The Bengal Renaissance, a cultural and intellectual movement that began in Kolkata (Calcutta), also influenced Dhaka, fostering a spirit of reform and modernization.
The city played a significant role in the emerging nationalist movement against British rule, with the formation of political organizations and participation in protests and campaigns for greater autonomy and independence.
20th Century and Independence
Partition of Bengal and Dhaka University:
In 1905, the British government divided Bengal into two provinces, with Dhaka becoming the capital of Eastern Bengal and Assam. This decision was highly controversial and sparked widespread protests. The partition was annulled in 1911, but it highlighted the growing demand for self-rule.
Dhaka University was established in 1921, becoming a major center for education and political activism. The university played a crucial role in shaping the intellectual and political landscape of Bengal and later of Bangladesh.
Partition of India (1947):
The partition of British India in 1947 led to the creation of the independent states of India and Pakistan. Dhaka became the capital of East Bengal, which was part of the newly formed Pakistan, with the western part of the country separated by more than a thousand miles.
The partition resulted in significant demographic changes in Dhaka, as many Hindus left for India, and a large number of Muslims migrated to East Bengal from India.
Language Movement and Political Struggles:
The imposition of Urdu as the sole national language of Pakistan in 1948 sparked protests in Dhaka, where Bengali was the mother tongue of the majority. The Language Movement, or Bhasha Andolon, reached a critical point on February 21, 1952, when police fired on protesters in Dhaka, killing several students. This event became a defining moment in the struggle for Bengali cultural and linguistic rights.
The Language Movement laid the foundation for the broader political movement that ultimately led to the demand for greater autonomy for East Pakistan.
Bangladesh Liberation War (1971):
Tensions between East and West Pakistan continued to grow, fueled by political, economic, and cultural differences. The 1970 general elections, in which the Awami League, led by Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, won a landslide victory in East Pakistan, further escalated the conflict.
On March 7, 1971, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman delivered a historic speech in Dhaka calling for the independence of East Pakistan. The Pakistani military launched Operation Searchlight on March 25, 1971, a brutal crackdown on Dhaka that marked the beginning of the Bangladesh Liberation War.
After a nine-month war, with significant support from India, Bangladesh declared independence on December 16, 1971. Dhaka became the capital of the newly independent state of Bangladesh.
Post-Independence and Modern Era
Rebuilding and Challenges:
The aftermath of the liberation war left Dhaka severely damaged and economically devastated. The city faced enormous challenges in terms of rebuilding infrastructure, resettling refugees, and restoring public services.
Despite these challenges, Dhaka experienced rapid urbanization and population growth in the decades following independence. The city became the political and economic center of Bangladesh, attracting people from across the country.
Economic and Social Development:
Dhaka has grown into one of the largest and fastest-growing cities in the world. It is the economic hub of Bangladesh, contributing a significant portion of the country’s GDP. The city is home to a diverse range of industries, including textiles, finance, technology, and services.
However, rapid urbanization has also brought challenges, including overcrowding, traffic congestion, pollution, and inadequate infrastructure. Dhaka continues to grapple with issues related to housing, public health, and environmental sustainability.
Cultural Significance:
Dhaka remains a vibrant cultural center, known for its rich traditions in literature, music, art, and cuisine. The city hosts numerous cultural festivals, including the Bengali New Year (Pohela Boishakh), the Dhaka Art Summit, and the Dhaka International Film Festival.
The legacy of the Language Movement is celebrated every year on February 21, now recognized globally as International Mother Language Day.
Political Developments:
As the capital of Bangladesh, Dhaka is the focal point of the country’s political life. It has witnessed significant political events, including movements for democracy, political protests, and elections. The city continues to play a central role in the governance and development of Bangladesh.
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