The British East India Company was a trading company founded in 1600, dissolved in 1874. It played a significant role in British colonial expansion in South Asia and China.
In 1599, the East India Company acquires Craven House on Leadenhall Street, transforming it into East India House adorned with paintings of the Company's ships. The location later becomes famous as the future home of Lloyds of London, with some original artworks and furniture now displayed in the British Museum.
1600-12-31
Charter of 1600
On December 31, 1600, Queen Elizabeth I signed the Charter creating ‘The Company of Merchants of London trading to the East Indies’. Over 200 subscribers raised almost £70,000 for a voyage to the east, granting the Company a monopoly on all English trade east of the Cape of Good Hope.
1601
First Voyage of British East India Company to India
The British East India Company made their first voyage into Indian territory in 1601 at Surat led by Sir James Lancaster on the Red Dragon.
1602
Captain James Lancaster sets sail to the Spice Islands
In 1602, Captain James Lancaster sets sail from London in the flagship Red Dragon with funding from 250 subscribers of the world's first common stock company. He carries bullion, goods for trade, and lemon juice to prevent scurvy, unlike the other accompanying vessels. The fleet arrives in Sumatra.
1603
Death of Queen Elizabeth I and Knighthood of Sir James Lancaster
In 1603, upon returning to England from a successful voyage, Sir James Lancaster learned of Queen Elizabeth I's death. He was subsequently knighted by the new king, James I, in recognition of the voyage's accomplishments. This event signified the transition of power and the continued support for English maritime ventures.
1604-03
Sir Henry Middleton's Command of the Second Voyage
In March 1604, Sir Henry Middleton led the East India Company's second voyage, further expanding English trade in the East Indies. This voyage marked another milestone in the company's efforts to establish a presence in the lucrative spice trade, despite facing competition from other European powers.
1607-04
Departure of the Hector from Deptford
In April 1607, the East India Company dispatches the 'Hector', a significant merchant vessel, from Deptford on the River Thames. The ship, carrying 110 men and 24 guns, is the first English vessel to sail directly to India, with the aim of reaching Surat on the northwest coast.
1608-03-14
Loss of the Ascension and Union Ships
In March 1608, the East India Company's ships, Ascension and Union, captained by Alexander Sharpeigh and Richard Rowles, set sail from Woolwich but tragically disappeared during the expedition. This loss highlighted the risks and challenges faced by early English maritime ventures in the East Indies.
1609
Sir William Hawkins and Permit Issue
In 1609, Sir William Hawkins faced challenges in obtaining a permit for a trading factory in Surat, India, during the reign of Jahangir, due to the influence of the Portuguese in the Mughal Court.
1611
Establishment of First Factory at Masulipatnam
The East India Company set up its initial trading post, or factory, in Masulipatnam (now Machilipatnam) in Andhra Pradesh, India, in 1611, expanding its presence in the region.
1612
Battle of Swally
In 1612, the British East India Company achieved a significant victory over the Portuguese in the Battle of Swally. This battle marked a key moment in the Company's efforts to establish dominance in the region and secure its position in the lucrative trade routes.
1613
Battle of Suvali
A naval battle known as the Battle of Suvali took place off the coast of Suvali near Surat, where East India Company galleons led by Captain Best and the Red Dragon achieved victory over four Portuguese galleons. This victory marked the beginning of the East India Company's dominance in India and led to the establishment of a small navy to protect their commercial interests.
1614
Establishment of Factories in Masulipatnam and Surat
Factories were set up by the East India Company in Masulipatnam and Surat in 1614.
1615
Trade Agreement with India led by Sir Thomas Roe
In 1615, Sir Thomas Roe was sent on a mission to conclude a trade treaty with Emperor Jehangir in India. This trade agreement marked an important diplomatic and economic milestone in the relations between England and India.
1616
EIC Establishes Permanent Factory at Masulipatnam
The East India Company established a permanent factory at Masulipatnam.
1619
Permission for First East India Company Factory at Surat
Sir Thomas Roe obtains permission from the Mughal Empire to establish the first factory of the East India Company in Surat, marking the beginning of the Company's presence in India.
1623
British East India Company pulls out of trade in woollen broadcloth with Japan
In 1623, the British East India Company decides to pull out of the trade in woollen broadcloth with Japan after facing unsuccessful outcomes. Saris returns to London with less than acclaim from The Company Directors, and William Adams and Mr. Cocks are left in charge but to no avail.
1632
Grant of Golden Farman by Sultan of Golconda to EIC
The Sultan of Golconda granted the 'Golden Farman' to the East India Company.
1633
EIC Establishes Factories in Balasore and Hariharpur
The East India Company established factories in Balasore, Odisha, and Hariharpur on the Mahanadi delta.
1639
City of Madras Founded
The City of Madras, which marked the beginning of British dominance in India, was founded in 1639. It became a significant British community and played a crucial role in the colonial history of India.
1640
Trading Centres in India
In 1640, the East India Company established a trading centre in Madras called Fort St George. By 1668, the Company had factories in various locations in India, including Goa, Chittagong, Bombay, Madras, and Calcutta.
1648
British Victory over the French in India
The British East India Company establishes itself as a local power by defeating the French in India at a critical time. This victory prevents the French from becoming the dominant power in India, paving the way for British influence.
1651
EIC's Trade Agreement with Mughal Bengal
The Mughal Bengal governor Shah Shuja allowed the English to trade in Bengal without customs duties in exchange for an annual lump sum.
1658
Establishment of Trade Centre at Hughli
The East India Company establishes a trade center at Hughli, further solidifying its presence and influence in the Indian subcontinent in the mid-17th century.
1661
Control of Bombay by East India Company
The East India Company gains control of Bombay (Mumbai), strategically expanding its territorial and economic power in India during the 17th century.
1662
Marriage of King Charles II and Catherine of Braganza
King Charles II of England marries Catherine of Braganza from Portugal. As part of her dowry, the English crown receives the island of Bombay, which provides a natural harbor and protection for English ships from pirates and rival European trading companies. This event leads to a shift in English focus towards Bombay.
1664
Introduction of Tea to Britain by the East India Company
In 1664, the East India Company presents tea as a gift to the King of England, marking the first introduction of tea to Britain. This event played a significant role in the history of tea consumption and trade in Britain.
1667
London Weavers Attack the East India House
In 1667, London weavers protested against the East India Company due to the rising importation of Indian textiles like chintz, muslin, and calico. This led to a riot where the weavers attacked the East India House in London.
1668
Lease of Bombay to EIC
Britain leased Bombay to the East India Company for a nominal fee, making it the headquarters of the Western presidency.
1670
King Charles II grants rights to the East India Company
Around 1670, King Charles II granted the East India Company various rights including territorial acquisitions, minting money, and forming alliances, strengthening the company's power.
1672
Saltpetre Trade Contract
Sir John Banks, as governor of the East India Company in 1672, arranged a contract for the sale of saltpetre to the King, a primary ingredient in gunpowder, at auction. This trade agreement was crucial for supplying the armed forces with necessary materials.
1684
East India Company received Chinese permission to trade from Guangzhou
In 1684, the East India Company was granted permission by the Chinese to trade from Guangzhou, allowing them to import silk, tea, and porcelain. This marked the beginning of significant trade relations between the two parties.
1686
First Anglo-Indian War
The first of the Anglo-Indian wars took place in 1686 when the East India Company conducted naval operations against Shaista Khan, the governor of Mughal Bengal, leading to the siege of Bombay and intervention by the Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb.
1689
Mughal Navy's Attack on Bombay
The Mughal Navy, under Admiral Sidi Yukub, attacked Bombay, leading to the East India Company surrendering and signing a treaty with Aurangzeb.
1690
Treaty between EIC and Mughal
The East India Company was forced to surrender, pay a fine, and sign a treaty with the Mughal Empire, which included the return of Bombay.
1694
Passing of the Deregulating Act
In 1694, pressure from ambitious tradesmen and former company associates led to the passing of the Deregulating Act, which allowed any English firm to trade with India, annulling the charter that had been in force for almost 100 years.
1695-09
Mughal Convoy Piracy Incident of 1695
In September 1695, Captain Henry Every, an English pirate, along with other captains, attacked the Mughal convoy in the Straits of Bab-el-Mandeb, seizing the treasure-laden Ganj-i-Sawai and its escort Fateh Muhammed.
1697
Establishment of the English Company Trading to the East Indies
In 1697, the East India Company Act led to the establishment of a new 'parallel' East India Company under a state-backed indemnity of £2 million, with powerful stockholders dominating the new body.
1698
Formation of Rival English East India Company
A competing English East India Company is established, leading to increased competition and conflicts in the East India trade during the early 18th century.
1699
Trade with China
In 1699, the British East India Company began trading with Canton, importing goods such as silk, tea, and porcelain from China.
1700
Weavers, Dyers, and Linen Drapers Protest in England
In 1700, weavers, dyers, and linen drapers in England protest against the threat posed by imports of Indian cloth to their industries. The protesters riot and attack East India House in London.
1702
Founding of Calcutta
Calcutta was founded on the site of three villages - Sutanati, Gobindapur, and Kalikata. The English received the right to trade in Bengal in the 1650s, but it took nearly 50 years to gain approval from the Mughal governor to fortify their settlement. The construction of Fort William was completed in 1702, leading to the growth of Calcutta into a sizable town.
1707
East India Company's Expansion in Bengal
After the death of Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb in 1707 and the subsequent anarchy in India, the East India Company took advantage of the chaos to gain direct control of the province of Bengal. They also engaged in wars with the French in the Carnatic region to establish influence and control on the east coast.
1708
Merger of the Two East India Companies
In 1708, the two East India Companies merged under a tripartite indenture, forming the United Company of Merchants of England Trading to the East Indies, with exclusive privileges for the next three years.
1712
Renewal of Company's Status
In 1712, another act renewed the status of the East India Company, solidifying its position despite debts being repaid.
1717
Farrukhsiyar issued royal farmans to the EIC
In 1717, Mughal emperor Farrukhsiyar issued royal farmans to the British East India Company, granting them trading rights and other privileges.
1720
Increase in British Imports from India
By 1720, 15% of British imports were from India, with almost all passing through the East India Company, showcasing its significant influence.
1730
Extension of Company's License
In 1730, the company's license was prolonged until 1766 by an act, further solidifying its exclusive privileges.
1739
Sack of Delhi by Nadar Shah
In 1739, Delhi was attacked and looted by Nadar Shah from Persia.
1742-12
Merger of the two rival English East India Companies
The two rival English East India Companies, which were competing against each other, merge into one entity.
1747
Battle of Assaye
The Battle of Assaye occurred in 1747, where the British East India Company forces under Arthur Wellesley defeated the Maratha Confederacy in India.
1750
Increase in tea imports by the East India Company
By 1750, the annual tea imports by the East India Company had surged to 4,727,992 lbs, reflecting the growing demand for tea in England. This increase in imports had significant economic implications.
1756-06-20
Robert Clive captures Gheria fortress
On June 20, 1756, Robert Clive successfully captures the Gheria fortress on behalf of the East India Company.
1757-06-23
Battle of Plassey Victory by Robert Clive
Robert Clive, representing the East India Company, emerges triumphant in the Battle of Plassey against the nawab of Bengal's forces.
1758
Warren Hastings as EIC's Representative in Bengal
Warren Hastings serves as the East India Company's envoy at the Nawab of Bengal's court during the period of 1758 to 1761.
1759
Robert Clive appointed Governor of Bengal
In 1759, Robert Clive was appointed as the Governor of Bengal by the East India Company.
1760
Battle of Wandiwash
The French attempted to take over the Fort of Vandavasi in Tamil Nadu during the third Carnatic war, but they were defeated by EIC.
1761
East India Company takes full control of Surat
In 1761, the East India Company gained complete control over Surat.
1763-02
Treaty of Paris
France regained the five establishments captured by the British in India, but was restricted from erecting fortifications and keeping troops in Bengal. This marked the end of French ambitions on Indian territories and eliminated a major economic competition for the British East India Company.
1764
Robert Clive reappointed as Governor of Bengal
In 1764, Robert Clive was reappointed as the Governor of Bengal for a second term by the East India Company.
1765-08-12
Mughal emperor Shah Alam II grants land revenue rights to East India Company
On August 12, 1765, the Mughal emperor Shah Alam II granted the East India Company the authority to collect land revenue in Bengal, Bihar, and Orissa.
1767-08
Haidar Ali declares war
Haidar Ali, ruler of Mysore, initiates hostilities against the East India Company, sparking the First Anglo-Mysore War.
1767-09
Battle of Trinamalai
The East India Company achieves victory over Mysore and the Nizam of Hyderabad in a significant battle during the First Anglo-Mysore War.
1772-05
EIC Stock Price Rise
The East India Company stock price significantly increased, leading to financial speculation and market instability. This event eventually contributed to the British credit crisis of 1772-1773.
1773
Warren Hastings becomes the first British Governor-General in India
Warren Hastings assumed the role of the first British Governor-General in India following the implementation of the Regulating Act in 1773. He implemented various administrative reforms and initiatives during his tenure.
1774
Passing of the India Act
The British Parliament enacts the India Act, further tightening government control over the East India Company.
1780
Battle of Pollilur
In September 1780, the Kingdom of Mysore emerged victorious over the East India Company in the Battle of Pollilur.
1781-07
Battle of Porto Novo
In July 1781, the East India Company defeated the Kingdom of Mysore in the Battle of Porto Novo (Parangipettai).
1784
Establishment of Board of Commissioners for the Affairs of India
Established in 1784 by an Act of Parliament, the Board of Commissioners for the Affairs of India was tasked with supervising the activities of the East India Company in administrative and political matters.
1785
Warren Hastings' Trial in London
In 1785, Warren Hastings faced charges of mismanagement upon his return to London. Despite being bankrupted during his defense, he was eventually acquitted by the Lords after a 10-year trial.
1790
Earl Grey Invented
In 1790, Earl Grey was invented. The famous tea blend is named after the British Prime Minister, Charles Grey, and is known for its distinctive flavor of bergamot.
1791
Introduction of Regular Police Force by Charles Cornwallis
Charles Cornwallis introduced a regular Police force system in India.
1793
Bengal Permanent Settlement
The Bengal Permanent Settlement established tax collectors (zamindars) as landowners in East India Company territory.
1798
Hyderabad Protectorate
Hyderabad became the first Indian princely state to come under the protection of the East India Company.
1799-05-03
The East India Company captures Seringapatam
In 1799, The East India Company emerged victorious in the Anglo-Mysore Wars by seizing Seringapatam. This event led to the death of Tipu Sultan of Mysore and marked the transformation of the kingdom into a British protectorate.
1799-05-04
The Storming of Seringapatam
On May 4th, 1799, the British forces successfully stormed and captured Seringapatam, a key stronghold in India. This event marked a significant victory for the British in their efforts to expand control in the region.
1801-03-01
East India Company Debts and Sales Report
On March 1, 1801, Henry Dundas reported to the House of Commons that the debts of the East India Company amounted to 5,393,989 pounds, their effects to 15,404,736 pounds, and their sales had increased significantly since February 1793.
1802
Great Trigonometrical Survey commissioned in India
The Great Trigonometrical Survey was initiated in response to inaccuracies found during military operations in India. It began in 1802 under British officer William Lambton and was sponsored by The East India Company. The project, which was expected to last 5 years, continued for over 70 years and accurately mapped and demarcated India, including measuring the heights of K2 and Mount Everest.
1806-07
Vellore Mutiny
In July 1806, a mutiny erupted in Vellore, southern India, where East India Company sepoys rebelled against their British officers. This event highlighted the growing discontent and tensions within the Company's military forces.
1809
Treaty of Amritsar
The East India Company signed a treaty with Maharaj Ranjit Singh of Punjab in 1809.
1813
Loss of Trading Monopoly in India
In 1813, the trading monopoly in India was lost. This event had significant implications for the British East India Company and marked a shift in the economic landscape of India.
1819
Establishment of Singapore by Sir Stamford Raffles
In 1819, East India officer Sir Stamford Raffles purchased the lease and founded Singapore. He signed The Singapore Treaty with Sultan Hussein and the Temenggong, and appointed William Farquhar as Resident and Commandant to establish the trading settlement.
1820
Establishment of Royatwari system by Thomas Munro
The Royatwari system was established by Thomas Munro in 1820.
1825
The global crash necessitates the East India Company taking massive loans from the British government
In 1825, due to a global economic crash, the East India Company had to borrow significant amounts from the British government.
1826
Siege of Bharatpur
The Siege of Bharatpur took place in 1826.
1829
Bengal Sati Regulation Act
The Bengal Sati Regulation Act, influenced significantly by Raja Ram Mohan Roy, was enacted in 1829 to ban the Sati Pratha in all areas of British India.
1833
Loss of Tea Monopoly in China
The Charter Act of 1833 extended the British East India Company's charter by 20 years but removed its monopoly over the China tea trade. This loss prompted the Company to explore tea growing areas in India, leading to significant positive outcomes.
1834
Establishment of Law commission under Macaulay
The Law commission under Macaulay was established in 1834 following the Charter Act of 1833, which eventually led to the formulation of key legal codes like the Civil Procedure Code 1859, Indian Penal Code 1860, and Criminal Procedure Code 1861.
1837
Introduction of the Press Act or Metcalf Act
In 1837, the Press Act, also known as the Metcalf Act, was introduced during British rule in India to regulate the press and control the spread of information.
1839
The First Opium War
The First Opium War began in 1839 as a result of tensions between the British and Chinese over the illegal opium trade. It escalated in the following year when the British sent a naval force to impose reparations for financial losses, leading to the defeat of the Chinese Empire and the cession of Hong Kong to the British through the Treaty of Nanking.
1841
Tea Established in Darjeeling
In 1841, Robert Fortune smuggled tea out of China and introduced it to India, specifically in Darjeeling.
1842-08-29
Treaty of Nanking
The Treaty of Nanking was signed on August 29, 1842, following the First Opium War. It resulted in the cession of Hong Kong to the British as a reparation for the conflict.
1843
Annexation of Sindh by the East India Company
In 1843, Sindh was annexed by the East India Company under the leadership of Charles Napier, expanding British control in the region.
1845-12-13
East India Company declares war on Sikh Empire
The East India Company officially starts a war against the Sikh Empire.
1848
Marquess of Dalhousie becomes Governor-General of the East India Company
In 1848, the Marquess of Dalhousie assumes the position of Governor-General of the East India Company.
1849-02-21
Battle of Gujrat
The British East India Company emerged victorious over the Sikh Empire in the Battle of Gujrat during the Second Anglo-Sikh War.
1850-06-03
Presentation of Koh-i-Noor Diamond to Queen Victoria
Lord Dalhousie, representing The East India Company, presents the Koh-i-Noor diamond to Queen Victoria, adding a valuable jewel to the British crown. The diamond's exhibition later contributes to the funding of the Victoria & Albert museum in London.
1851
The Great Exhibition
The East India Company participates in the Great Exhibition, showcasing treasures from India at the Crystal Palace in London. The event attracts millions of visitors and highlights India as the 'Jewel In the Crown' of the British Empire.
1853
Introduction of Railway and Telegraph in India
The East India Company pioneered the introduction of the first railway and telegraph lines in India.
1854
Introduction of the Charter Act of 1853
The Charter Act of 1853 was introduced in 1854, impacting the governance and administration of British India during that period.
1856
Annexation of Awadh by Dalhousie
In 1856, Lord Dalhousie annexed Awadh, a significant event that altered the political landscape of the region during British rule.
1857-05-10
Sepoy Mutiny
The Sepoy Mutiny, also known as the Uprising or First Indian War of Independence, erupted against the dominance of the East India Company.
1858-08-02
British Takeover of East India Company Territories
The British government assumed complete control over the territories held by the East India Company in India.
1860
Second Opium War
The Second Opium War occurs, involving British forces including those linked to The East India Company. The conflict has significant implications for trade, diplomacy, and colonial power dynamics in East Asia.
1873
Dissolution of the East India Company
In 1873, the East India Company ceased to exist as a legal entity, marking the end of its long history as a major player in British imperialism and trade with Asia.
1874-06-01
Dissolution of the East India Company
The British Parliament officially dissolved the East India Company, marking the end of its era as a ruling power in India.
1876
Queen Victoria becomes Empress of India
Queen Victoria, as the ruling monarch, assumed the title of Empress of India after the British Crown took over control from the British East India Company.
1952
Exclusive Jubilee Tea served at Queen's coronation lunch
In 1952, The East India Company Food & Beverages Ltd created an exclusive Jubilee Tea served at the Queen's coronation commemorative lunch at Westminster, attended by over 700 Heads of State and dignitaries. The special tea blend used tea picked from bushes propagated from the original tea bush planted in Sri Lanka by HRH Prince Philip on their 'World Tour' of 1952. HM Queen Elizabeth and HRH Prince Philip were pictured on their 11-day visit to Ceylon.
1978
Publication of 'The Trading World of Asia and the English East India Company'
The book 'The Trading World of Asia and the English East India Company' by K.N. Chaudhuri was published in 1978 by Cambridge University Press, focusing on the period of 1600-1760.
2005
Indian Ownership of The East India Company
Mumbai-born entrepreneur Sanjiv Mehta purchased 100% of the shares of The East India Company, marking a new chapter in its ownership history.
2006
Publication of 'The Business of Empire: the East India Company and Imperial Britain'
The book 'The Business of Empire: the East India Company and Imperial Britain' by H.V. Bowen was published in 2006 by Cambridge University Press, covering the years 1756-1833.
2012
The Kilo Jubilee Coin
The East India Company Bullion creates 'The Kilo Jubilee Coin' to celebrate The Queens Diamond Jubilee in 2012. Craftsmen have devoted more than 1000 hours to create this timeless tribute with a kilo of fine gold and 2 carats of diamonds cut and set in India.
2016-06-06
Release of Gold Guineas by East India Company Bullion Ltd
To commemorate the 200th anniversary of the 1816 Great Re-coinage Act, the East India Company Bullion Ltd releases a series of gold Guineas, replicating the historic coin that played a significant role in building empires and serving Britain for over 150 years.
2016-09-26
Release of Gold Guineas by East India Company Bullion Ltd
To commemorate the 200th anniversary of the 1816 Great Re-coinage Act, the East India Company Bullion Ltd releases a series of gold Guineas, honoring the coin's historical significance in building empires and serving Britain for over 150 years.
2021
Release of Gold Guineas by The East India Company Bullion Ltd
The East India Company Bullion Ltd releases a series of gold Guineas to commemorate the 1816 Great Re-coinage Act. The coins are minted to the exact specifications of the last coins in circulation, marking a significant event in British numismatic history.
2022
Launch of The East India Company Lifestyle
The East India Company launches The East India Company Lifestyle, expanding its offerings beyond bullion to include a range of lifestyle products. This marks a strategic expansion of the brand's portfolio.