হেনরি বেভারিজের বর্ণনায় বাকেরগঞ্জের (বরিশালের) আর্থ-সামাজিক প্রসঙ্গ

ড. মো. আবুল বাশার

সহযোগী অধ্যাপক, ইসলামের ইতিহাস ও সংস্কৃতি বিভাগ, চট্টগ্রাম বিশ্ববিদ্যালয়

DOI: https://doi.org/10.59815/isp.vol4215

Abstract: Bakerganj was a vibrant region in eastern Bengal, enriched by the abundant freshwater rivers that lead to the Bay of Bengal, making it a truly remarkable and prosperous area. The District of Bakerganj: Its History and Statistics by British administrator Henry Beveridge serves as a significant primary source for understanding the socio-economic history of this region. This paper examines the agro-craft economic development of this land, highlighting the geostrategic location's role in achieving economic independence for each farmer's family. This sort of economic stability clearly empowered the people of the region to lead peaceful lives, despite the challenges posed by natural disasters that obstruct economic development. It decisively highlights how the British administration of the land systematically impoverished the region, mirroring the effects seen in other parts of the country and the subsequent development under colonial rule including importing western education. Henry Beveridge's historical account offers a comprehensive overview of the socio-economic conditions in Bakerganj, which is a significant part of the history of Bangladesh.

Key Words: Agro-craft Economy, Geo-strategic Location, Socio-economy, British Administration.