The Black Hole of Calcutta

Synopsis of The Black Hole of Calcutta

This book provides a detailed historical reconstruction of the infamous 'Black Hole of Calcutta' incident in 1756. Noel Barber examines the events leading to the death of English prisoners under the orders of the Nawab of Bengal, Siraj-ud-Daula, and how this event was used to justify interventionist policies and British control over India. Through rigorous research, the author questions the veracity of traditional accounts of this pivotal historical episode.

The work explores the political and social tensions between the East India Company and Indian rulers, offering a critical perspective on colonialism and the impact of this event on the history of the British Empire. It is an essential read for those seeking to understand the complexities of colonial history in 18th-century India.