In the late 17th century, the British East India Company was actively expanding its trading operations in India, seeking to establish a foothold in the prosperous markets of Bengal. Job Charnock, a representative of the Company, recognized the potential of a strategically located site on the banks of the Hooghly River. On August 24, 1690, he established a factory, which served as both a trading center and a fortified settlement. This location was advantageous due to its proximity to both maritime routes and inland trade networks.

The area cultivated by Charnock would eventually evolve into the bustling city known as Calcutta, a name derived from its earlier name of 'Kolkata.' The significance of this factory extended beyond trade; it represented the growing British colonial ambitions in the Indian subcontinent. Upon its establishment, the factory attracted investors and merchants eager to partake in the wealth generated through trade, particularly in textiles, opium, and other valuable goods.

Charnock's factory endured challenges, including resistance from local rulers and competing European powers. However, its success marked the beginning of British colonial dominance in Bengal. Over time, the area transitioned from a mere trading post into the capital of British India, influencing governance, culture, and trade practices throughout the region. Calcutta became a melting pot of cultures, deeply entwined with British and Indian traditions and customs, which would shape its identity for centuries to come.