World War Situations and the Seafarers of Bengal: An Historical Observation

Abstract: This study explores the experiences of colonial Bengal's seafaring community, primarily hailing from various districts of East Bengal, who joined the maritime service through the Port of Calcutta. These sailors demonstrated exceptional courage during the First and Second World Wars. However, the wartime environment exacted a heavy toll, with many sailors killed or injured, while others went missing, leaving their families in states of absolute destitution. Beyond the physical dangers, the financial strain on the British Empire during the wars severely impacted the wages of these Bengali sailors, leading to widespread professional discontent. In response to such deprivation and exploitation, the Indian Seamen's Union (ISU) emerged as a pivotal force. By advocating for the sailors' rights and presenting their grievances to shipping authorities, the union managed to provide some relief to this marginalized community. This discussion focuses on the socioeconomic challenges and the lived realities of Bengali seafarers within the turbulent context of the World Wars.