Colonialism is taking over a less powerful country and using its resources and wealth for the benefits of the powerful government. The cities like Delhi and Calcutta were capital of many other superpowers ruling India. In the late 18th century, Calcutta, Bombay, and Madras rose in importance as Presidency cities, centres of British power in India. At the same time, historically, vital ports and towns such as Machilipatnam, Surat, and Seringapatam declined.