Urbanization and Social Change in 19th and 20th Century London and Bombay
Understanding Communalism
Forms of Communalism
Communalism manifests in various ways, often rooted in religious prejudices and a sense of superiority. Common expressions include:
- Everyday Beliefs: Stereotypes and biases against other religious communities are prevalent, often unnoticed even by those who hold them.
- Political Dominance: The majority community may seek to exert control, while minority communities might desire separate political entities.
- Religious Mobilization: Sacred symbols and religious leaders are used to unite followers of one religion in the political sphere, often appealing for votes based on religious identity.
- Communal Violence: In extreme cases, communalism leads to riots and massacres, as witnessed during the Partition of India and Pakistan.
The Growth of Industrial Cities: London and Bombay
London’s Expansion in the 19th Century
London experienced rapid growth during the 19th century, with its population quadrupling in just 70 years. The city’s workforce comprised clerks, shopkeepers, artisans, and a growing number of semi-skilled laborers. Key industries included clothing, furniture, metalwork, printing, and precision instruments. The First World War saw the emergence of motor car and electrical goods manufacturing.
The Changing Role of Women
The Industrial Revolution initially provided employment opportunities for women in factories. However, technological advancements led to their displacement, forcing them to seek work within their homes, such as taking in lodgers or engaging in tailoring and washing. The 20th century brought a shift as women entered wartime industries and offices, reducing their reliance on domestic service.
Housing and Social Concerns
The influx of migrant workers led to the construction of cheap, often unsafe tenements, raising concerns about public health, fire hazards, and social unrest. Mass housing schemes were implemented to address these issues and prevent potential rebellion.
The Impact of the Railway
The construction of the London Underground caused significant disruption and displacement, particularly for the poor. However, it ultimately improved transportation and facilitated the development of suburbs, allowing people to live outside central London and commute to work.
Bombay’s Rise as a Commercial and Industrial Center
Bombay initially served as a major outlet for cotton textiles from Gujarat and later became a crucial port for raw materials like cotton and opium. Its strategic location and railway connections attracted migrants, further fueling its growth. The city evolved into a significant administrative and industrial center in western India.
Land Reclamation and Expansion
Bombay underwent several land reclamation projects to accommodate its expanding population and commercial needs. Notable projects included the Back Bay Reclamation and the creation of Ballard Estate, which later led to the development of Marine Drive.
Social Change in Urban Families
Industrial cities like London and Bombay brought about significant transformations in family structures and dynamics:
- Loosening of Family Ties: The demands of urban life weakened traditional family bonds, particularly among the working class.
- Isolation of Middle and Upper-Class Women: While domestic servants eased their workload, women from these classes experienced increased isolation.
- Women’s Employment and Changing Roles: Working-class women gained some control over their lives through wage labor. However, social reformers advocated for their return to domestic roles.
- The Rise of Individualism: Urban life fostered a sense of individualism and freedom from collective values, although women faced restrictions in accessing public spaces.
- Women’s Suffrage Movements: Women actively participated in political movements demanding voting rights and property rights for married women.
- Smaller Family Units: By the 20th century, urban families had become smaller, influenced by factors such as women’s wartime employment.
- The Family as a Market: The family emerged as a central unit of consumption for goods, services, and ideas.
Urban Planning and Public Health
Urban planning in London was driven by fears of social revolution, while in Bombay, concerns about plague epidemics played a significant role. Bombay faced challenges of overcrowding, with limited space per person compared to London. The development of these cities also differed, with Bombay’s growth linked to agricultural trade and London’s to the Industrial Revolution.
The Rise of Bombay’s Film Industry
Bombay’s film industry flourished, attracting migrants from various cities who contributed to its national character. The city became India’s film capital, producing movies for a nationwide audience. The industry provided employment opportunities and played a crucial role in shaping Indian cinema.
Contrasting Urban Experiences
London and Bombay, while both experiencing rapid urbanization, exhibited distinct characteristics in terms of urban planning, social change, and economic development. These differences highlight the diverse factors that shaped the growth and evolution of industrial cities during the 19th and 20th centuries.