NCERT Notes: Grade 8 Social Science - History - Chapter 7: Weavers, Iron Smelters and Factory Owners
Introduction
India has a rich history of craftsmanship. Chapter 7 of the NCERT Grade 8 Social Science textbook unfolds the tale of India’s weavers, iron smelters, and the rising group of factory owners during the colonial era.
The Weaving Magic: Indian Textiles and the World
India has always been renowned for its cotton and silk textiles. These textiles found markets not only in different parts of India but also in Southeast Asia, Africa, and Europe.
The Art of Spinning and Weaving:
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Traditionally: Spinning was done by women using the “charkha” and weaving by men.
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Exports: Fine-quality textiles, like chintz, bandanna, and muslin, were in high demand. Dhaka, in present-day Bangladesh, was a prominent center for muslin production.
Decline of Indian Textiles:
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Reasons:
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With British colonial rule, Indian textiles faced stiff competition from mill-made cloth from England.
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The British encouraged the production of raw materials in India and finished goods in England. This policy led to the decline of traditional weaving.
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Iron Smelting in India
The craft of iron smelting has an ancient lineage in India, with its quality often matching and sometimes surpassing that of iron and steel made in Europe.
Traditional Iron Smelters:
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Who were they?: Known as “Agricolas,” they used to smelt iron ore in small furnaces.
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Challenges: Despite the superior quality of Indian steel, the craft faced multiple challenges, including the restriction on entering forests to collect wood and the competition from imported iron.
The Age of Indian Textile Mills
By the late 19th century, Bombay (now Mumbai) emerged as a significant hub for large-scale, mechanized textile production in India.
Growth Factors:
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Availability of raw materials: Bombay was close to the cotton-producing regions.
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Port accessibility: This facilitated imports of machinery and the export of yarn and cloth.
Swadeshi Movement and Textiles:
The Swadeshi Movement (1905) marked a turning point. It emphasized the revival of domestic products and production processes. This led to an increase in the demand for Indian textiles.
Conclusion
The tale of weavers, iron smelters, and factory owners portrays the evolving face of Indian industry and crafts against the backdrop of colonialism. The resilience of artisans, coupled with the surge in nationalistic sentiments, played a pivotal role in shaping India’s journey from traditional crafts to modern industries.
Reference: NCERT Grade 8 Social Science - History - Chapter 7: Weavers, Iron Smelters and Factory Owners