Anglo-Indian Community in Darjeeling Hills: Study of the Growth of Educational Institutions (1835-1900)

Abstract

Anglo-Indian community is among the minority communities recognized by the Indian constitution. This mixed-race community has a rich history of nearly 500 years. The history of the Anglo-Indian community begins from the first European settlement in Bengal. The community found a new home in Darjeeling after this region was acquired by the British. This paper aims to find out a vivid picture of the Anglo-Indian community in Darjeeling and makes a study of the educational institutions that were established for the European and Anglo- Indian children. This paper also aims to find out why Darjeeling was chosen for establishing institutions such as schools and orphanages for European and Anglo- Indian children. This paper also looks into the active role and involvement of the Christian Missionaries for all-around development of Anglo-Indians. Missionaries also played an important role in establishing Girl’s schools.