加尔各答的黑洞》(The Black Hole of Calcutta

 加尔各答的黑洞》(The Black Hole of Calcutta

Paul King

加尔各答黑洞的恐怖故事始于1756年初。 东印度公司是印度次大陆的一个相对新成员,已经在加尔各答建立了一个受欢迎的贸易基地,但这一霸权受到了法国在该地区利益的威胁。 作为一项预防措施,公司决定加强其在该市的主要堡垒威廉堡的防御工作。

重要的是要记住,在这些殖民统治的早期,东印度公司只直接控制了印度的少数据点,为了维持这些据点,公司经常被迫与附近的王子国及其执政的 "纳瓦布 "达成不安的休战。

听说威廉堡的军事化程度提高了,附近的孟加拉纽瓦布(Newab),西拉吉-乌德-道拉(Siraj ud-Daulah),召集了大约5万名军队、50门大炮和500头大象,向加尔各答进军。 到1756年6月19日,大多数当地的英国工作人员已经撤退到港口的公司船只上,纽瓦布的部队就在威廉堡的门前。

对英国人来说,不幸的是,该堡垒处于相当糟糕的状态。 迫击炮的火药太潮湿,无法使用,而他们的指挥官--约翰-泽法尼亚-霍尔韦尔--是一位军事经验有限的总督,他的主要工作是收税!在剩下70至170名士兵保护堡垒的情况下,霍尔韦尔被迫于6月20日下午向纽瓦布投降。

左图:孟加拉的Newab,Siraj ud-Daulah。 右图:John Zephaniah Holwell、 加尔各答的Zemindar

当纽瓦布的部队进入城市时,剩余的英国士兵和平民被围起来,并被迫进入堡垒的 "黑洞",一个5.4米乘4.2米的小围墙,原本是用来关押轻罪犯的。

See_also: 欧内斯特-沙克尔顿爵士和耐力号

温度达到40度左右,空气非常潮湿,囚犯们被关了一夜。 根据霍尔韦尔的描述,在接下来的几个小时里,有一百多人因窒息和踩踏而死亡。 那些乞求俘虏怜悯的人遭到了嘲笑,而当牢房的门在早上6点被打开时,已经有一堆只有23人幸存下来。

See_also: 1951年的英国节

当 "黑洞 "的消息传到伦敦时,一支由罗伯特-克莱夫(Robert Clive)率领的救援队立即集结,随后于10月抵达加尔各答。 经过长时间的围攻,威廉堡于1757年1月被英国人攻陷。

同年6月,罗伯特-克莱夫和一支仅有3000人的部队在普拉西战役中击败了纽瓦布的5万大军。 英国人在普拉西的成功常常被认为是印度大规模殖民统治的开始,这种统治将一直持续到1947年独立。

Paul King

Paul King is a passionate historian and avid explorer who has dedicated his life to uncovering the captivating history and rich cultural heritage of Britain. Born and raised in the majestic countryside of Yorkshire, Paul developed a deep appreciation for the stories and secrets buried within the ancient landscapes and historic landmarks that dot the nation. With a degree in Archaeology and History from the renowned University of Oxford, Paul has spent years delving into archives, excavating archaeological sites, and embarking on adventurous journeys across Britain.Paul's love for history and heritage is palpable in his vivid and compelling writing style. His ability to transport readers back in time, immersing them in the fascinating tapestry of Britain's past, has earned him a respected reputation as a distinguished historian and storyteller. Through his captivating blog, Paul invites readers to join him on a virtual exploration of Britain's historical treasures, sharing well-researched insights, captivating anecdotes, and lesser-known facts.With a firm belief that understanding the past is key to shaping our future, Paul's blog serves as a comprehensive guide, presenting readers with a wide range of historical topics: from the enigmatic ancient stone circles of Avebury to the magnificent castles and palaces that once housed kings and queens. Whether you are a seasonedhistory enthusiast or someone seeking an introduction to the enthralling heritage of Britain, Paul's blog is a go-to resource.As a seasoned traveler, Paul's blog is not limited to the dusty volumes of the past. With a keen eye for adventure, he frequently embarks on on-site explorations, documenting his experiences and discoveries through stunning photographs and engaging narratives. From the rugged highlands of Scotland to the picturesque villages of the Cotswolds, Paul takes readers along on his expeditions, unearthing hidden gems and sharing personal encounters with local traditions and customs.Paul's dedication to promoting and preserving the heritage of Britain extends beyond his blog as well. He actively participates in conservation initiatives, helping to restore historical sites and educate local communities about the importance of preserving their cultural legacy. Through his work, Paul strives not only to educate and entertain but also to inspire a greater appreciation for the rich tapestry of heritage that exists all around us.Join Paul on his captivating journey through time as he guides you to unlock the secrets of Britain's past and discover the stories that shaped a nation.