Fort William: A Citadel of Colonial History

Fort William, located in Kolkata, West Bengal, is more than just a fort; it's a journey through time, reflecting the shifting tides of power during the British Raj. Named after King William III of England, the fort has two distinct iterations, the first built in 1696 and the second, more formidable structure completed in 1781. The original Fort William was constructed by the British East India Company to protect their trading interests. However, in 1756, the Nawab of Bengal, Siraj-ud-Daulah, attacked and captured the fort, an event known as the "Black Hole of Calcutta". This prompted the British to build a new, stronger fort. Robert Clive laid the foundation for the new Fort William after the Battle of Plassey in 1757, and construction concluded in 1781. The current Fort William is an irregular octagon-shaped structure spread over 70.9 acres. Encircled by a wide moat, its high walls and six gates—Plassey, Chowringhee, Water, St. Georges, and Treasury Gates—speak of its military design. The vast green expanse surrounding the fort, known as the Maidan, serves as a reminder of the strategic importance of keeping the area clear for defense. Today, Fort William is the property of the Indian Army, serving as the headquarters of the Eastern Command. While access to the interiors is restricted, the fort remains a powerful symbol of Kolkata's colonial past. Though the general public has limited access, the exterior architecture can still be viewed.