Madhyayuge Banglar Arthaniti by Sadikur Rahman [Hardcover]

The relationship between human livelihood and economics is both profound and ancient. Similarly, to understand the formation, development, and characteristics of any society or state, it is essential to analyze its economic structure—regardless of the historical period in question. This is because the present is intricately linked to the continuum of economic development. As economies evolve, they give rise to increasingly sophisticated industries and civilizations, transitioning from natural resource management to advanced systems. Consequently, patterns of living and infrastructural environments also change. The medieval period holds special significance in the context of Bengal. Before the advent of British rule, this region had a rich and flourishing indigenous economy, primarily based on agriculture, industry, and trade. Bengal’s textile and spice industries, in particular, were in high demand across the world. However, political shifts and the region's transformation into a colonial state under British control severely disrupted this economic growth. Many promising industries were lost forever. These tales of decline have long circulated through oral narratives. Yet, how the economy of that era was built on a solid foundation has been explored in scattered writings and, in some cases, through extensive analysis in select works. Sadikur Rahman takes a fresh look at the economic history of the medieval period through the lens of contemporary thought. This new perspective and modern context bring a renewed sense of hope and relevance to his work.