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How did East India Company grew at India?
The British presence in India was heralded by the creation of the East India Company (EIC). This was the first joint stock company, set up by royal charter in 1600 to trade between Britain and India. Its charter was renewed and extended under Charles II and James II.

The United East India Company, the Dutch company trading with India and the east, was already fully operational when the English entered this competitive region.

For the early merchant adventurers, establishing a foothold in India was not an easy task. The East India Company did not establish its first 'factory' or permanent depot until 1619, at Surat. The opportunity for the British to expand came in 1661, when Charles II married Catherine of Braganza and as part of his dowry gained Bombay from the Portuguese.

The commercial success of the British in India was impressive, and by the 18th century the previously strong positions held by the Portuguese, Dutch and French had been undermined. The profits of the slave trade gave Britain a huge financial advantage over all its competitors. Contracts were made with Indian merchants and artisans for all kinds of luxury goods, in exchange for silver from Britain. By the 18th century, the East India Company was shipping more Indian goods to Europe than any of its rivals.


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