The Trade and Commerce in Early Bengal till the Establishment of the Muslim Rule in India

in Published Volumes

Author:

Dr. Abhijit Datta
Assistant Professor
Department of History
Islampur College
Islampur,West Bengal,India

Email: data.abhijit.82@mail.com

Abstract:: Abstract:The trade and commerce in early Bengal, from the 3rd century BCE to the establishment of
Muslim rule in India in 1204 CE was very much vibrantas compared to other parts of India. Bengal’s
strategic location, with its access to the Bay of Bengal and the Ganges River, facilitated trade with
various regions, including the Indian Ocean, Southeast Asia, and the Mediterranean.The region’s
economy thrived during the Mauryan (322-185 BCE) and Gupta (320-550 CE) periods, with the
emergence of major trade centers, such as Tamralipta and Chandraketugarh. Bengal’s merchants
traded in various commodities, including textiles, spices, metals, and precious stones.The study
examines the impact of various dynasties, including the Palas (750-1174 CE) and the Senas (1070-
1230 CE), on Bengal’s trade and commerce. The findings highlight the significance of Bengal’s trade
relationships with neighboring regions.

Key Words::Bay of Bengal, Pala-Senas, Trade and Commerce,Tamralipta, Samandar etc.