Podcast
Questions and Answers
What justification did the British provide for taking over Awadh?
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?
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?
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?
Who was Warren Hastings and what role did he play in British expansion?
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What were the sentiments of the people regarding the Nawab’s deposition?
What were the sentiments of the people regarding the Nawab’s deposition?
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What was one of the geographic changes noted in the maps regarding British territorial expansion?
What was one of the geographic changes noted in the maps regarding British territorial expansion?
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Describe the impact of the British rule on the traditional governance in Awadh.
Describe the impact of the British rule on the traditional governance in Awadh.
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What emotions might the Nawab's nephew experience upon learning he will not inherit the crown?
What emotions might the Nawab's nephew experience upon learning he will not inherit the crown?
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Why was the revolt of 1857 significant in the context of British rule in India?
Why was the revolt of 1857 significant in the context of British rule in India?
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What were the longer-term outcomes of the British expansion in India since Hastings' administration?
What were the longer-term outcomes of the British expansion in India since Hastings' administration?
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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.
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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.
