Jan Company in Coromandel 1605–1690: A Study in the Interrelations of European Commerce and Traditional Economies

In this insightful examination of the Jan Company’s operations in Coromandel between 1605 and 1690, A.K. Raychaudhuri unravels the complex tapestry of European commerce intertwined with local economies. The book offers a detailed analysis of how the Jan Company, amidst the burgeoning trade routes of the early modern period, navigated the intricate landscape of traditional economies. By situating the Jan Company's influence at the intersection of European ambitions and indigenous practices, the narrative reveals the multifaceted impacts of colonial trade on local livelihoods.

Raychaudhuri meticulously explores the dynamics of economic exchange, shedding light on the motivations behind European mercantilism and the responses of local communities. The study not only highlights the financial aspirations of the Jan Company but also elaborates on how these mercantile endeavors influenced cultural practices and societal structures in Coromandel. This comprehensive work provides valuable insights for historians and those interested in the global economic forces that shaped this region during a crucial period in history.