Author:

Tarana Tabassum Sweety
Lecturer
Department of Business Administration
Presidency University,
Dhaka, Bangladesh

Email: sweetydu22@gmail.com

Abstract::The middle class is a fundamental element in the modern social structure. The middle stratum is considered a pivotal social group in the class structure of any society or state. The impact of the middle class in the development of the socio-economic and political conditions and context of every country is paramount. This class emerged in the social system of Bengal at a historical juncture when society was breaking away from the old traditional feudal and agrarian social structure and rushing towards the modern colonial social structure. The emergence of the middle class in Bengal throughout the British colonial period from the mid-18th century to the first half of the 19th century was a complex and long historical process. This class emerged not only as a social class but also as an economic, intellectual and political class and has had a long-term influence on the history, economy, society, culture and politics of Bengal in the subsequent period, which is equally active in the present day. By means of their active and sustained involvement with modern Western education and institutions, they played a decisive role in transforming Bengal rigid traditional society into a rational and progressive societal framework. This article primarily sheds light on the historical context behind the emergence and growth of the middle class in colonial Bengal and the role of this class in education, social reforms and politics in the following period.

Key Words::Bengali Middle Class, British Colonial Administration, Social Reforms etc.