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Edges of Empire

KNW 2399: Edges of Empire

The Architecture of Colonies

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http://digitalcollections.smu.edu/cdm/ref/collection/eaa/id/1089

http://digitalcollections.smu.edu/cdm/ref/collection/eaa/id/1089

Title: Cornwallis Monument and Secretariat, Bombay

Creator: A. Z. [Albert Zorn?]

Date: ca. 1855-1862

In this photograph one can see a group of, what looks to be, about 20 native Indian people dressed in minimal ragged looking clothes. They appear to be resting in the shade possibly taking a break from work. Behind them there is a large complex of buildings that at points held administrative offices for the colonial government in Bombay.

From this photograph you can deduce that the indigenous people were of a lower socioeconomic status, most likely low caste. The British people were also able to enjoy much more status and privilege. Lastly, it is interesting to see the stark contrast between the Indian people and their culture compared to the culture the British brought with them. They bring with them huge bureaucratic offices filled with people doing paperwork and running a country they know little of. It begs the question, how did the indigenous people feel about the presence of administrative buildings such as these?

http://digitalcollections.smu.edu/cdm/ref/collection/mex/id/2151

http://digitalcollections.smu.edu/cdm/ref/collection/mex/id/2151

Title: Cathedral, City of Mexico

Creator: Unknown

Date: ca. 1897

In this photograph there is a very ornate European-style cathedral. It is the central focus of this photograoh with various trees around it. There are many people walking around dressed very similar to Europeans. This seems to be an area where many people gather, possibly a sort of square or plaza. There is also a small building in the bottom right hand corner where many people are waiting.

It can be deduced that this cathedral was built by the Spanish colonial regime. One can also deduce that this is the hub of this area, even in a city as large as Mexico City. Third, these people surrounding the Cathedral have also adopted a semi-European culture as seen by their clothing. This huge cathedral is a monolithic reminder of the massive cultural shift that the Spanish brought with them and left behind afterwards. The center of your focus is a cathedral that is very Spanish in style, surrounded by buildings and people that also look very European. It would be interesting to know whether or not the people walking around were Spanish or indigenous people.

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