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Protest Against Import of Indian Textiles in England

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The import of high-quality and inexpensive cotton fabrics from India threatened England’s textile industries, particularly wool and silk, in the early 18th century. For ages, the Indian textile industry has been well-established, with advanced weaving processes. Even when the spinning wheel was introduced in Europe in the 17th century, the Indian industry thrived. As a result, English producers lost market share, revenues, and possibly their jobs.

Protest Against Import of Indian Textiles

Protest Against Import of Indian Textiles

Opposition to the Import of Indian Textiles

The English wool and silk makers were adamantly opposed to the import of Indian textiles, alleging that the Indian fabrics were inferior and manufactured with cheap labour. They also claimed that Indian textiles were sold for less than their English counterparts, resulting in unfair competition. They requested that the government intervene in order to prohibit the entry of Indian textiles and protect their companies.

As a result, the government passed the Calico Act of 1720, which prohibited the importation of printed cotton textiles. Nonetheless, it was ineffective since the demand for Indian textiles remained high and smugglers continued to get them into England.

In the long run, English producers were unable to compete with high-quality, low-cost Indian textiles, resulting in the downfall of the wool and silk industries. The late-nineteenth-century Industrial Revolution brought significant technological breakthroughs that aided in the revival of the English textile industry. Yet, the early 18th-century demonstrations against the import of Indian textiles underscore the challenges that traditional sectors face as a result of technological improvements and globalisation.

Features of Indian Textiles and Britain textiles

Handloom weaving and embroidery are prominent characteristics of Indian textiles, which are known for their use of natural dyes and bright colours. These textiles contain traditional themes such as paisleys, florals, and geometric designs. Another popular technique for making detailed designs on fabric is block printing.

British textiles, on the other hand, are synonymous with high-quality materials such as wool, silk, and cotton. Their speciality is fine tailoring, attention to detail, and high-quality stitching. Traditional designs like tartan, herringbone, and tweed are popular, but they frequently include modern twists like vibrant colours and novel materials. These textiles are associated with elegance and sophistication, and they are commonly utilised in the collections of high-end designers.

Reasons for the protest

English wool and silk producers faced stiff competition from Indian textiles, which were both cheaper and of greater quality. As a result, their market share and profits were declining significantly, leading to growing dissatisfaction.

The producers argued that the government should put substantial taxes on imported Indian textiles to preserve their interests. This would level the playing field and allow them to compete equally. They also felt a feeling of national pride and duty to assist the British textile sector, fearing that importing Indian textiles would undermine the country’s global standing.

Furthermore, the producers were concerned about employment losses in their business as a result of Indian textile imports. This was a major issue because many people relied on the textile sector for work. Additionally, wool and silk producers expressed concerns about the quality of Indian textiles. The British producers were of the opinion that the standard was not comparable to that of British textiles and can harm the overall growth of the industry’s reputation.

Aftermath

The protest which persisted against the importation of Indian textiles in 18th century England resulted in far-reaching effects on the different elements of the society and the world economy at large. Implementation of protectionist policies like the Calico Act of 1720, which implications were the prohibition of the import of printed cotton textiles and also restrictions on the sale of imported Indian textiles were one of the key results. The promotion of local production and protection of wool and silk industries eventually led to the creation of England’s cotton sector.

The need for cotton fabrics led to the development of new technologies, such as the spinning jenny and water frame, which changed the cotton industry and established England as the global textile trade centre in the nineteenth century. The prohibition on Indian textiles, on the other hand, had a disastrous impact on India’s textile industry, which had been a significant producer and exporter for generations.

Furthermore, the Calico Act and the demonstrations were part of a larger pattern of colonialism and protectionist policies that moulded the world economy, with European powers exploiting colonies and subjugating their economies for their own gain. The prohibition on Indian textiles had a cultural impact on English fashion and design, sparking renewed interest in domestic fabrics and patterns. Yet, the love for Indian fabrics and designs persisted, and it had a long-lasting impact on English art and design, as evidenced by the rise of the Arts and Crafts movement.

Related Links

  1. Indian Textiles and the World Market
  2. Decline of Indian Textiles
  3. Cotton Textile Industry in India

FAQs On Protest Against Import of Indian Textiles in England

Q 1. What was the Calico Act of 1720?

Answer-

The Calico Act was a law passed by the British government in 1720 to prohibit the importation of printed cotton textiles from India, which were seen as a threat to the country’s wool and silk industries.

Q 2. Why did the English wool and silk producers protest against Indian textiles?

Answer-

English producers protested against Indian textiles because they were cheaper and of better quality, which led to a decline in their market share and profits. They also feared job losses and were concerned about the quality of the Indian fabrics.

Q 3. What were the features of Indian textiles?

Answer-

Indian textiles were known for their handloom weaving and embroidery, use of natural dyes, bright colours, and traditional designs such as paisleys, florals, and geometric patterns. Block printing was also a popular technique for making detailed designs.


Last Updated : 21 Jan, 2024
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