Etawah Knowledge Guide

History

Ancient era

This region is believed to have existed even in the Bronze Age. The earliest Aryans who lived here were the Panchalas. They are said to have had close connections with Kurus.The Guptas, Kanvas, Kanishka, Naga kings ruled over this area. In the fourth century A.D., it was part of united India under the Guptas. During the ninth and tenth centuries, this region was governed by Gurjara Pratihara rulers. The conquest of Kannauj by Nagabhata II handed Pratiharas control over this region. During the reign of Gurjara Pratihara monarch Mihir Bhoj, the region is mentioned as prosperous, safe from thieves and rich in natural resources.In 1244, Ghiyas ud din Balban attacked the region.

Revolt of 1857

During the First War of Independence in 1857, major disturbances occurred in Etawah and the district was occupied by the freedom fighters from June to December. British rule was not completely restored till the end of 1858.

Modern history and economy

Etawah has experienced modernization and development under British Raj and in the post-independence period. The district is partly watered by branches of the Ganges canal.It is traversed by the main line of the Indian railway (northern zone) from Delhi to Howrah (Calcutta). Cotton, oilseeds, Potato and other agricultural produce are grown and exported. Special breed of goat Jamunapaari and special breed of buffalo Bhadawari are raised and exported. The region has a 652 MW natural gas-based power generation plant. However, it lacks manufacturing industries. Etawah was known for its handloom products; most of them are converted into power looms thanks to the advent of better technology. 'Etawah' is derived from the burner of bricks (where bricks are made); it has thousands of brick centre between its boundaries.