Advent of the EuropeansIn the mid 15th century the Portuguese, Danish, Dutch, Spanish, French and British companies started establishing trading posts in India. In 1617 the Mughal ruler granted the British right to trade without paying taxes. By the 18th century the British East India Company was growing in size and so was its lust for power. The British started strengthening their army and looking for opportunities for political interference. |
Source : mocomikids Channel, The East India Company
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"Upon which assurance of your royal love I have given my general command to all the kingdoms and ports of my dominions to receive all the merchants of the English nation as the subjects of my friend; that in what place soever they choose to live, they may have free liberty without any restraint; and at what port soever they shall arrive, that neither Portugal nor any other shall dare to molest their quiet; and in what city soever they shall have residence, I have commanded all my governors and captains to give them freedom answerable to their own desires; to sell, buy, and to transport into their country at their pleasure.
For confirmation of our love and friendship, I desire your Majesty to command your merchants to bring in their ships of all sorts of rarities and rich goods fit for my palace; and that you be pleased to send me your royal letters by every opportunity, that I may rejoice in your health and prosperous affairs; that our friendship may be interchanged and eternal"
- Source : Mughal Emporer , Nuruddin Salim Jahangir, Letter to James I, "World History 2009", Jennifer Laden and Patrick Whelan.
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