‘Black towns’ were established in India by European companies

Correct option is B

During the 18th century, European trading companies, such as the British East India Company,
established ‘Black towns’ in cities like Bombay, Calcutta, and Madras to segregate the native population
from the European rulers. These Black towns were residential areas where native traders, artisans, and
craftsmen, including weavers, were moved. These towns were separated from the well-maintained
European quarters, often referred to as ‘White towns’, which housed the colonial officials and merchants.
The establishment of Black towns was driven by the desire of European companies to control and
confine the native merchants and craftsmen within specific areas, limiting their ability to trade freely and
maintain independence in their economic activities. By keeping the native population in these segregated
areas, European companies were able to exert more control over commerce and crafts, which
underwent significant changes during this period. For example, in Madras, the native population was
confined to Black towns, while the Europeans occupied superior residencies like Fort St. George.
Information Booster:
· Black towns were established in colonial cities to segregate native traders, artisans, and craftsmen from Europeans.
· These towns reflected the racial and social segregation policies enforced by European colonial powers.
· The primary aim was to control native economic activities and limit their freedom of trade and commerce.
· European quarters were better maintained and represented the superiority claimed by colonial rulers.
· The concept of Black towns highlighted the broader exploitation and marginalization of the local population in colonial cities.
Additional Knowledge:
· African slaves were not commonly used in Indian factories; instead, local artisans and laborers worked in the Black towns.
· While racial discrimination existed, Black towns were not specifically established to prevent entry into British clubs, but to control trade.
· Kala Pani referred to punishment in remote penal colonies, unrelated to Black towns.