The Rest Is History 75. The East India Company
65 snips
Jul 15, 2021 
William Dalrymple, a renowned historian specializing in Indian and British history, joins the discussion to unravel the intriguing tale of the East India Company. He explores how a mere handful of corrupt merchants expanded a global empire from London, delving into their rise after the pivotal Battle of Plassey. Dalrymple sheds light on the transformation from a trading entity to a ruling power, highlighting the consequences of their exploitation on India and how their decline set the stage for burgeoning anti-colonial movements.
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Company Conquest
- The East India Company, a private entity, conquered India, not the British government.
- This act of corporate violence was managed from a small London office.
Early Voyages and Piracy
- The East India Company's initial voyages targeted the spice trade in Indonesia, not India.
- Their first ship, the Red Dragon (formerly Scourge of Malice), acted like pirates, raiding other ships.
English Innovation
- While the Dutch innovated with the stock exchange, the English pioneered the joint-stock company.
- The Muscovy Company, predating the East India Company, exemplifies this English innovation.
