British Expansion in India Quiz

Questions and Answers

What justification did the British provide for taking over Awadh?

The British claimed they were obliged by duty to free the people from the 'misgovernment' of the Nawab.

How did the people of Awadh respond to the deposition of the Nawab?

They joined the great revolt that broke out in 1857.

What was the Doctrine of Lapse and how did it affect the Nawab’s nephew?

The Doctrine of Lapse prevented adopted heirs from inheriting states, leaving the Nawab's nephew unable to claim the crown.

Who was Warren Hastings and what role did he play in British expansion?

Warren Hastings was the Governor-General from 1773 to 1785, and he played a significant role in expanding Company power in Bengal and beyond. Signup and view all the answers

What were the sentiments of the people regarding the Nawab’s deposition?

The people were enraged by the humiliating manner in which the Nawab was deposed. Signup and view all the answers

What was one of the geographic changes noted in the maps regarding British territorial expansion?

The maps show various parts of India that were not under British rule, highlighting areas of resistance. Signup and view all the answers

Describe the impact of the British rule on the traditional governance in Awadh.

The British rule undermined traditional governance by deeming the Nawab's administration as misgovernment. Signup and view all the answers

What emotions might the Nawab's nephew experience upon learning he will not inherit the crown?

He might feel anger, betrayal, and a desire for revenge against British authority. Signup and view all the answers

Why was the revolt of 1857 significant in the context of British rule in India?

The revolt was a major uprising against British authority, representing widespread discontent and a desire for independence. Signup and view all the answers

What were the longer-term outcomes of the British expansion in India since Hastings' administration?

The long-term outcomes included the consolidation of British control and the establishment of direct governance. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

British Expansion in India

Battle of Plassey (1757): Marked the first major victory for the East India Company in India; Mir Jafar, a commander of Sirajuddaulah, did not engage in battle due to a promise of being made Nawab.
Corruption and Wealth: Following Plassey, Nawabs of Bengal had to offer land and money to Company officials, with Robert Clive accumulating a fortune, noted to be worth £401,102 upon leaving India in 1767.
Clive's Controversy: Clive was scrutinized for corruption during his governorship. He defended his actions but later committed suicide in 1774 amid parliamentary inquiries into his wealth.

Authority of the Resident

Role of the Resident: After the Battle of Buxar, the British Resident held significant power over Nawab Shujauddaulah, effectively controlling the administration while the Nawab posed as a figurehead.
Political Dynamics: The Resident could intervene if the Nawab acted against British interests, showcasing a power imbalance between the Company and local rulers.

Conflicts with Mysore

Tipu Sultan and Haidar Ali: The British perceived them as threats due to their power and relationships with the French, leading to four wars with Mysore (1767-1799).
Battle of Seringapatam (1799): Marked the downfall of Tipu Sultan, resulting in the Company taking control over Mysore and imposing a subsidiary alliance.

Doctrine of Lapse and Revolt of 1857

Doctrine of Lapse: This policy prevented royal succession, denying rights to rulers like the Nawabs, creating resentment among the local population.
Impact on Awadh: The deposition of the Nawab of Awadh led to public anger, contributing to the widespread revolt against British rule in 1857.

Setting Up a New Administration

Warren Hastings (1773-1785): Governor-General crucial in expanding Company power beyond Bengal to Bombay and Madras, establishing a new administration structure within British-controlled territories.

Description

Test your knowledge about the British expansion in India, focusing on key events like the Battle of Plassey and figures such as Robert Clive. This quiz explores the complexities of British colonialism, including corruption and wealth accumulation among Company officials. Evaluate your understanding of this pivotal period in Indian history.