Key Takeaways
- The 1806 Cary Map of India, also known as Hindoostan Geographicus Indiacary1806, provides a detailed portrayal of the Indian subcontinent during the colonial era.
- This map offers valuable insights into the political boundaries, topography, cities, rivers, and cultural diversity of India in the early 19th century.
- It serves as an important historical artifact, showcasing the advancements in cartography and the colonial influence on Indian territories.
History
The 1806 Cary Map of India, produced by British cartographer John Cary, represents a pivotal period in the history of India. During the early 19th century, the British East India Company expanded its influence across the subcontinent, establishing control over vast territories.
John Cary, a renowned cartographer of his time, undertook the task of meticulously mapping India to aid in the administration and governance of the region. The resulting map, Hindoostan Geographicus Indiacary1806, played a significant role in shaping British colonial strategy and understanding the geographical nuances of India.
Beyond its functional role, this map also exhibited the European perception of India during its colonial rule. It not only depicted the physical attributes of the subcontinent but also showcased the cultural diversity, historical cities, and the complexities of governance at the time.
Unique Insights
- The political boundaries illustrated on the 1806 Cary Map of India reflect the extent of British control in the subcontinent. It clearly shows the territories under direct British rule, as well as those under princely states and independent entities.
- The map provides an intricate depiction of the topography, including the prominent mountain ranges, rivers, and coastlines. This information was crucial for understanding the landscape and enhancing trade and transportation routes.
- With its detailed city maps, the Cary Map offers insights into the urban landscape of India during that time. Notable cities such as Delhi, Kolkata, Mumbai, and Chennai are highlighted, showcasing their historical significance.
- The representation of cultural diversity is a unique aspect of this map. It showcases various ethnicities, languages, and religious groups coexisting within the region.
- Hindoostan Geographicus Indiacary1806 also provides a glimpse into the impact of colonization on India’s administrative structure. It delineates the provinces and regions, demonstrating the British effort to streamline governance across the subcontinent.
Table of Relevant Facts
| Year | Significance |
|---|---|
| 1757 | The Battle of Plassey results in the East India Company acquiring significant control over Bengal, marking the beginning of British territorial expansion in India. |
| 1799 | The defeat of Tipu Sultan in the Fourth Anglo-Mysore War leads to British dominance in southern India. |
| 1803 | The Second Anglo-Maratha War ends with British victory, further extending their control over territories in central India. |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is the significance of the 1806 Cary Map of India?
The 1806 Cary Map of India holds great historical significance as it provides valuable insights into the political boundaries, topography, cities, rivers, and cultural diversity of India during the colonial era.
2. Who created the 1806 Cary Map of India?
The map was created by British cartographer John Cary, known for his meticulous and accurate map-making skills.
3. What insights does the map offer about the colonial influence on India?
The map showcases the extent of British control over various territories in the Indian subcontinent, reflecting the impact of colonization on India’s administrative structure.
4. What cities are highlighted on the 1806 Cary Map of India?
The map highlights significant cities such as Delhi, Kolkata, Mumbai, and Chennai, illustrating their historical importance during that time.
5. Does the map provide information about the cultural diversity of India?
Yes, the map portrays the cultural diversity of India by highlighting various ethnicities, languages, and religious groups present in different regions.
6. What is the role of the map in understanding the topography of India?
The Cary Map offers detailed information about the topography of India, including mountain ranges, rivers, and coastlines, which was crucial for trade, transportation, and strategic purposes.
7. How did the 1806 Cary Map of India contribute to British colonial strategy?
The map aided the British East India Company in their administration and governance of India by providing a comprehensive understanding of the region’s geography, resources, and cultural complexities.
External Links
- Geographicus.com: 1806 Cary Map of India (Hindoostan Geographicus Indiacary1806)
- British Museum: Hindoostan Geographicus Indiacary1806
LSI Keywords
- India map 1806
- British cartographer John Cary
- Colonial influence in India
- Topography of India
- Indian cultural diversity
- British East India Company
- Early 19th-century cartography
- Significance of the 1806 Cary Map
- British territorial expansion
- Historical cities of India
