Assam

Quick Facts: Who was Assam?

Subject:

Assam

Known for:

A state in Northeast India, known for the Brahmaputra Valley and rich biodiversity.

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2Day Chrono-Wiki & Primary Historical Archives

Origins & Early Life

Assam is a state in Northeast India, located south of the Eastern Himalayas along the Brahmaputra Valley and Barak River valleys. It covers an area of 78,438 km2 (30,285 sq mi), and is the second largest state in northeastern India by area. As per the 2011 census, the state had a population of 31.2 million, and is the largest by population in the region. It shares international borders with Bhutan to the north and with Bangladesh to the southwest. It borders the Indian states of Arunachal Pradesh to the north; Nagaland and Manipur to the east; Meghalaya, Tripura, and Mizoram to the south; and West Bengal to the west.

Career & Major Achievements

It is connected to the rest of the India to the west via the Siliguri Corridor (also known as the chicken neck), a 22 km (14 mi) wide strip of land. Dispur is the capital of Assam while Dibrugarh is the second capital. Guwahati is the largest city and urban area in the state. Archaeological record from the region indicate early settlements from the second to first century BCE. Though the region finds mention in the Hindu epic Mahabharata, there is a lack of substantial archaeological evidence regarding its ancient history.

Enduring Legacy & Impact

The region is described as one of the frontiers of the Gupta Empire in fourth century CE. It was ruled by Varmanas (c. 350–650 CE), Mlechchhas (c. 655–900 CE) and Kamarupa-Palas (c. 900–1100 CE) later. The Ahom kingdom was established in the 13th century CE, and ruled till the early 19th century CE. The period saw various conflicts with the Mughals. After the Moamoria rebellion and Burmese invasions weakened the Ahom kingdom, the British started establishing tea estates in the region in the 19th century CE.

Chronological Milestones & Life Events

1. 2011: 2011 Milestone — As per the 2011 census, the state had a population of 31.

Historical Fact-Check Quiz: Assam

True or False: “The name 'Assam' was first used by the British in official treaties, rather than being an ancient local designation.”

Answer (TRUE ⭕): While the region had names like Kamarupa and Pragjyotisha, the specific name 'Assam' is documented as being associated with the Ahom people and formalized by the British in the Treaty of Yandabo in 1826.

Contemporary Figures & Related Historical Timelines

• Al Davis — Historical peer (Died in 2011) (2011): Pioneering NFL executive and coach, known for building the legendary Oakland Raiders.
• Alan Rubin — Historical peer (Died in 2011) (2011): American musician known for playing trumpet, flugelhorn, and piccolo trumpet.
• Abd al-Mu'min — Historical peer (Born in 1100) (1100): Founder and first Caliph of the powerful Almohad Caliphate.
• Alan Rufus — Historical peer (Born in 1100) (1100): Breton nobleman and kinsman of William the Conqueror, granted the Honour of Richmond.

Frequently Asked Questions about Assam