Assam is a region with a rich and complex history shaped by its diverse cultures, strategic location, and interactions with various kingdoms and empires. Here’s a detailed chronological outline of history of Assam from ancient times to the present day.
Ancient History
Prehistoric and Early Historic Period
Prehistoric Evidence: Evidence of human habitation in Assam dates back to the Neolithic period. Archaeological sites like Dima Hasao and Sadiya have yielded tools, pottery, and other artifacts that indicate early settlement in the region.
Ancient Texts: Assam is mentioned in ancient Sanskrit scriptures including the Mahabharata and the Ramayana, which describe the Brahmaputra River and the diverse tribes and cultures of the region. The Puranas also refer to Assam’s geographical and cultural significance. Couple of incidents are evident of the fact.
The Legend of Rukmini and Sri Krishna
Historical and Mythological Context: Rukmini, a key figure in Hindu mythology, is revered as the chief queen of Lord Krishna. Her divine love story with Krishna is central to Assamese cultural and religious heritage.
The Legend of Sadiya: According to local legends, Sadiya in Assam is associated with the divine romance of Rukmini and Krishna. This connection is celebrated through temples and sacred sites in the region.
Temples and Sacred Sites: Sadiya is home to ancient temples dedicated to Krishna and Rukmini, which serve as important pilgrimage destinations.
Banasura (Baan Roja)
Historical Context: Baan Roja is a reputed ruler of the ancient kingdom of Kamarupa. His reign is placed within the early medieval period, and Tezpur is linked with his legacy.
Legends and Mythology: Baan Roja is celebrated in Assamese folklore and mentioned in the Mahabharata as a formidable warrior defeated by Krishna. Local stories depict him with divine attributes.
Cultural Impact: Tezpur is known for its ancient ruins and archaeological sites linked to Baan Roja’s era, including Bamuni Hills. Local festivals and traditions commemorate his legendary feats.
Ancient Kingdoms
Kamarupa (4th to 12th Century CE): The region now known as Assam was part of the kingdom of Kamarupa. The kingdom, with its capital at Harsapar (modern-day Assam), played a crucial role in early Assamese history. Notable dynasties included the Kalabhomsa and Varmana. The Varmana dynasty, in particular, had a significant impact on the region’s history and culture.
Pala Influence (8th to 12th Century CE): The Pala Empire of Bengal influenced Assam during this period, promoting Buddhism and encouraging cultural exchanges with neighboring regions.
Historical Records
Hiuen-tsang’s (Xuanzang’s) Journey (629-645 CE): Xuanzang (Hiuen-tsang), a Chinese Buddhist monk, traveled through India and described various parts of the country, including regions that are now part of Assam. Although he did not provide detailed accounts of Assam, his observations offer valuable context for understanding regional interactions.
Medieval Persian Sources: Persian sources from the medieval period provide additional context about Assam’s role in regional politics and trade, highlighting its interactions with Muslim empires.
Buranjis (13th to 19th Century CE): The Buranjis are historical chronicles written in the Ahom language. They document the history of the Ahom dynasty, including the rulers, administration, and interactions with neighboring regions.
Medieval and Colonial Period
Ahom Dynasty
Foundation (1228 CE): The Ahom dynasty was founded by Sukaphaa. The Ahoms kingdom is one of the longest reigning dynasties in the world history that lasted until the British annexation in the 19th century.
Expansion and Administration: Under Ahom rule, Assam saw significant territorial expansion and the development of a sophisticated administrative system. Ahoms were the only dynasty in India that never bowed to outside invaders
Mughal Interactions: The Ahoms had several conflicts with the Mughal Empire. Mughals faced defeat in front of the Ahoms 17 timed. The Battle of Saraighat in 1671 was a notable event where the Ahoms successfully repelled a Mughal invasion, establishing their resilience and military prowess.
Burmese Invasion: In 1816, Badan Chandra Borphukan, one of the prominent Ahom generals, approached the court of Burmese King Bodawpaya seeking assistance to overcome his political rival, Purnananda Burhagohain. The Burmese king consented to help and dispatched an expedition led by a general from Bhamo. Accompanied by Badan Chandra Borphukan, this force entered Assam in January 1817 to engage in the conflict until the Treaty of Yandabo between the Burmese and the British,
Colonial Period
British Annexation (1826): The British East India Company annexed Assam following the Treaty of Yandabo, which ended the First Anglo-Burmese War. Assam was incorporated into British India, leading to significant changes including infrastructure development and the expansion of tea cultivation.
Socio-Political Changes: During the colonial period, Assamese nationalism emerged, leading to the formation of socio-political organizations like the Assam Association in 1903, which advocated for the rights of Assamese people.
Post-Independence Period
Post-Independence Developments (1947-Present)
Socio-Political Changes: After India's independence in 1947, Assam underwent various socio-political changes, including the creation of new administrative units and efforts to address ethnic and political issues.
Language and Identity Movements: The 1960s and 1970s saw movements advocating for Assamese linguistic and cultural identity, such as the Assamese Language Movement, which sought to protect and promote the Assamese language and culture.
Assam Accord and Bodo Agreements:
Assam Accord (1985): This agreement aimed to address issues related to illegal immigration and provided political and economic concessions to the people of Assam.
Bodo Accord (2020): This accord addressed demands for autonomy by the Bodo community, aiming to resolve long-standing issues and provide greater political and economic rights.
Recent Developments: Assam continues to face challenges such as ethnic tensions, environmental issues, and economic development. Key issues include flood management and the impact of illegal immigration. Despite progress in infrastructure and education, these challenges persist.