As large in population as France and Germany combined, Bengal has always been an area of major importance in the Indian subcontinent.Calcutta, its principal city, was the capital of the British Indian Empire for nearly a century and a half, during which time it grew considerably in size and influence as a centre of both government and business.Thus by reason of proximity the Bengali people were more closely involved with British rule than any other specific group in India.They also had more opportunities for education and developed a greater political awareness.Today the region is split into West Bengal, which is part of India, and Bangladesh, which was formerly part of Pakistan.This division, largely along Hindu/Muslim lines, was made at the end of British rule in 1947.The total population now is well in excess of 115 million and there is a great deal of both national and regional consciousness in both parts of Bengal.