The processes of trade and urbanization in Trichur since 1790

Abstract

Urbanization has always been a part of human civilization. The history of urbanization is also the history of different civilizations like Indus Valley, Egypt, Greccc ctc. Urbanization is not a uniform process. It takes place at different stages, at different ages, at different places and sometimes has witnessed a localized growth. The development trajectory of Trichur is examined here with particular emphasis on its economic growth and the processes of urbanization that transformed Trichur into an urban centre Trichur region witnessed a number of economic and social factors which formed the backtbone of nmaking it an urban centre. The processes of urbanisation started from the period of Sakthan Thampuran reached its peak dåring the period of amalgamation of Cochin with Travancore. The present work is an endeavour to understand the socio economic and political configuration of Trichur in the context of urbanization. Various factors have contributed to the development of Trichur since 1790. The modern city of Trichur which had been part of Cochin, rose to its prominence during the period of Sakthan Thampuran who ruled Cochin from 1790 to 1805. In the development of Trichur, multiple causative factors can be identified in the nexus of social, economic and political transformation which resulted in the urban forms. Power structure continued to be a detemining factor in the growth of the city. The institution of kingship, state apparatus for taxation and exchange network provided stimulus for urban growth. Increase in trade and commercial activity introduced an element of heterogeneity in the urban centre of Trichur. The processes of trade and urbanization in Trichur were facilitated by agriculture, commerce, merchants, markets, industries, trade unions, co-operative movements and social developments. The integration of religious communities and consequent social mobilization benefited the market to a certain extent. The different state departments and institutions were being utilized by the rulers for their trade. The construction of network of roads, waterways and introduction of railways enabled the mobilization of resources and promotion of trade. Emergence of diverse industries, financial establishments and academic institutions paved the way for the modernization and consequent urbanization of Trichur.