What does a conqueror do after the war is won? In 1800, just months after the fall of Tipu Sultan, the British East India Company sent an agent on a comprehensive journey through the newly acquired territories of Mysore, Canara, and Malabar. This episode unearths his detailed report, a fascinating blend of economic survey, social ethnography, and colonial intelligence gathering.

We follow the author's path as he meticulously documents everything from agricultural techniques and irrigation to local industries like steel and oil production. The account provides a granular look at the intricate caste system, describing the distinct practices of various Brahmanical and Sudra sects. It also reveals the complex systems of land ownership, trade, and revenue collection, all while capturing the lingering impact of decades of conflict on the land and its people.

Note: This episode examines a historical document created for the British East India Company. It reflects the colonial perspectives and priorities of the time and is presented here for its historical and economic insights.

In This Episode, We Explore:

• The strategic purpose of this detailed survey for the new British administration.
• A ground-level view of agriculture, from crop varieties to the ingenious "Capily" water-raising machine.
• Observations on local geology, minerals, and manufactures like high-quality steel wire.
• The author's detailed, and often critical, documentation of the caste system and local customs.
• The economic machinery of the region: land tenure, revenue systems, and regional trade networks.
• The visible impact of the recent Anglo-Mysore wars on the population and landscape.