Kerala, as we know it today, emerged as a state in 1956 through the reorganization of states based on linguistic lines. However, its history leading to this formation is deeply rooted in the restructuring of political and administrative boundaries during the colonial era. The regions of Travancore, Cochin, and Malabar played a pivotal role in shaping the socio-political and cultural landscape of the state. These regions had distinct trajectories due to their differing governance systems under princely rulers and British administrators.
1. Travancore, Cochin, and Malabar: A Brief Historical Context
Travancore: A prominent princely state in the southern part of Kerala, Travancore was renowned for its effective administration and progressive reforms. It became a model of governance under rulers like Marthanda Varma and Swathi Thirunal.
Cochin: Located in central Kerala, Cochin was another princely state known for its trade-oriented economy and cordial relations with colonial powers.
Malabar: Situated in northern Kerala, the Malabar region came under direct British administration and was treated as part of the Madras Presidency. It had a contrasting socio-political framework compared to Travancore and Cochin.
2. Political Restructuring Under Colonial Rule
2.1. Travancore
British Alliance and Administrative Changes:
Travancore signed a subsidiary alliance with the British in 1795, ensuring British protection and dominance over its foreign affairs.
This agreement allowed Travancore to retain internal autonomy while ceding control over external policies to the British.
Modernization and Reforms:
Travancore rulers initiated significant administrative reforms, including the establishment of efficient taxation systems, the introduction of modern education, and the promotion of infrastructure development.
The Dewan (Prime Minister) system was instituted, with notable Dewans like Sir C.P. Ramaswamy Iyer playing a critical role in governance.
Social Movements and Caste Reforms:
Social reformers like Sree Narayana Guru and Ayyankali emerged during this period, addressing caste-based discrimination and promoting education among marginalized communities.
2.2. Cochin
Early Colonial Encounters:
Cochin was one of the earliest Indian regions to establish contact with European powers, beginning with the Portuguese in 1503. Subsequently, the Dutch and the British influenced its governance.
By the late 18th century, Cochin became a British protectorate, ensuring its internal sovereignty under British oversight.
Administrative Developments:
Cochin introduced systematic land revenue systems and judicial reforms inspired by British models.
The state also encouraged trade and commerce, leveraging its strategic location and natural harbors.
Social Reforms:
The Maharajas of Cochin supported social movements, including the Vaikom Satyagraha, which sought to address temple entry barriers for lower-caste communities.
2.3. Malabar
Integration into the Madras Presidency:
Following the Mysore Wars (17671799), the British annexed Malabar and integrated it into the Madras Presidency.
Unlike Travancore and Cochin, Malabar had no local rulers but was directly administered by British officials.
Revenue and Land Reforms:
The British introduced the Zamindari system, fundamentally altering traditional landholding patterns. This led to widespread peasant unrest and conflicts between tenants and landlords.
Peasant Movements:
The Malabar region witnessed significant uprisings, such as the Mappila Rebellion (1921), which was rooted in socio-economic grievances and religious tensions.
3. Distinction Between Princely States and British-Administered Regions
3.1. Administrative Structures
Princely States (Travancore and Cochin):
Governed by local monarchs under British suzerainty.
Maintained a degree of autonomy in internal administration, including taxation, law and order, and cultural policies.
British Residents acted as advisors to ensure alignment with colonial interests.
British-Administered Region (Malabar):
Fully under British control, with no indigenous ruler.
Administered as part of the Madras Presidency, with policies directly dictated by the British government.
3.2. Socio-Economic Policies
Princely States:
Implemented reforms tailored to local needs, often driven by the interests of the ruling elite.
Focused on modernizing infrastructure and education while balancing traditional values.
British-Administered Regions:
Revenue-focused policies often disrupted local socio-economic structures.
Emphasis on cash crops like pepper and coconuts for export, leading to agrarian discontent.
3.3. Political Participation and Movements
Princely States:
Social reform movements like the Ezhava movement and the Vaikom Satyagraha emerged within the princely states.
Relatively peaceful compared to the British-ruled regions, as monarchs were more accommodative of reformist demands.
British-Administered Regions:
Witnessed intense political activism, including the participation of Malabar in the Indian National Congress and other nationalist movements.
Repeated rebellions, such as the Kurichiya Revolt (1812) and the Mappila Uprisings, reflected the resentment against colonial exploitation.
4. Integration and Unification: Toward Modern Kerala
Post-independence, Travancore and Cochin merged in 1949 to form the Travancore-Cochin State, with a democratic government replacing monarchical rule.
Malabar, as part of the Madras Presidency, was later incorporated into the Indian Union.
The States Reorganization Act of 1956 led to the creation of Kerala by merging the Travancore-Cochin State with the Malabar district and the Kasaragod region of South Canara.