The Great Hedge of India

The Great Hedge of India was a massive, secretive financial operation by the British during colonial rule, running from 1800 to around 1870. It involved a network of traders, agents, and traders, who used complex financial agreements known as futures contracts to lock in the price of India’s tea, indigo, and other commodities before harvest. This practice helped Britain control prices and protect its profits, but allowed them to manipulate markets and profit at India’s expense. It was a significant example of colonial economic power, illustrating how financial instruments could be used to extract wealth from colonized regions.