Hooghly: The Global History of a River

The Hooghly was a river of global significance for centuries, attracting merchants, missionaries, mercenaries, statesmen, laborers, and others from Europe, Asia, and beyond. It was integrated into global networks of encounter and exchange, and Robert Ivermee explores themes of modern capitalism, migration, technology, and the human impact on the natural world.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 280 pages
Publication date: 25 January 2024
Publisher: C Hurst & Co Publishers Ltd

The Hooghly, a distributary of the Ganges that flows south to the Bay of Bengal, is now little known outside of India. However, for centuries, it held immense global significance, drawing merchants, missionaries, mercenaries, statesmen, laborers, and others from Europe, Asia, and beyond. Hooghly aims to reclaim its place in global history. The book focuses on the various stakeholders who sought control over the river, including the Portuguese, Mughals, Dutch, French, and British, who eventually built their imperial capital, Calcutta, on its banks. By tracing the river's course, Robert Ivermee delves into themes of enduring relevance, such as the dynamics of modern capitalism and the power of large corporations; migration and human trafficking; the role of new technologies in revolutionizing social relations; and the human impact on the natural world. Throughout his journey up and down the river, Ivermee explores these topics in depth, drawing on historical evidence and contemporary insights. In conclusion, The Hooghly's global history offers valuable lessons for India as it emerges as a world superpower. By understanding the past, India can better navigate the challenges and opportunities of the present and future.

Dimension: 216 x 138 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781911723349