Urban Growth Of 17th-18th Century Rajasthan with Special Reference to Services Provided by Ironsmiths and Weavers

Abstract

Urbanization forms one of the most important watersheds in the phases of historical growth and events. No study of historical processes, whatever be their origin, will bring us at least close to historical truth without analyzing the human factor or making a socio-psychological portrait of those people who were the main acting force of the process under review. An attempt has been made in this paper to highlight the contribution made by professional class in the urbanization of Rajasthan during the aforesaid period. The present study is based on both primary and secondary sources. Urbanization is a natural consequence of socio-economic change, but the said paper tries to analyze how professional groups (especially ironsmiths and weavers) were instrumental in the said process. The state provided various facilities to professional groups like space for shops, residence, exemption from cesses, etc. and encouraged them to come and settle down in different areas of Rajasthan. The professional groups accepted the invitation of the state and flocked to the towns and cities, thus giving rise to urban population. They played a significant role as they were the back-bone behind the development and growth of towns and markets. The aforesaid study shows the position and role of ironsmiths and weavers in the acceleration of urban growth during the period under discussion.