Keywords To Remember
- East India Company
A British trading company formed in 1600 which eventually established political rule in India. - Charter
A formal document granting rights or powers; Queen Elizabeth I granted the East India Company a charter in 1600. - Factory
A trading post or warehouse established by European trading companies in coastal towns of India. - Battle of Plassey (1757)
A decisive battle where the British East India Company defeated the Nawab of Bengal, marking the beginning of British rule in India. - Battle of Buxar (1764)
A battle fought between the East India Company and a coalition of Indian rulers, resulting in Company’s complete political authority in Bengal. - Diwani Rights
The right to collect land revenue, granted to the East India Company by the Mughal Emperor in 1765 for Bengal, Bihar, and Orissa. - Dual Government
A system introduced by Robert Clive where the East India Company had the real power, but the administration was run by Indian officials. - Subsidiary Alliance
A diplomatic policy introduced by Lord Wellesley requiring Indian rulers to maintain British troops and not have independent foreign relations. - Doctrine of Lapse
A policy by Lord Dalhousie that allowed the British to annex any princely state if the ruler died without a natural male heir. - Carnatic Wars
A series of military conflicts in South India between the British and the French for control of trade and territory. - Anglo-Mysore Wars
Four wars fought between the British and the rulers of Mysore (Hyder Ali and Tipu Sultan), leading to British dominance in South India. - Tipu Sultan
Ruler of Mysore, known as the “Tiger of Mysore”; a strong opponent of British expansionism. - Anglo-Maratha Wars
Three wars between the British and the Marathas, which ended in the collapse of Maratha power and the extension of British control. - Treaty of Allahabad (1765)
An agreement that formalized the British control over Bengal and allowed them to collect revenue directly. - Annexation
The act of adding a region to the territory of an existing political unit; often used by the British to expand control in India. - Nawab
A title for Muslim rulers or governors in India, especially in Bengal, Awadh, and Carnatic. - Sepoy
An Indian soldier serving in the British East India Company’s army. - Presidency
A major administrative division under British rule; examples include Bengal Presidency, Bombay Presidency, and Madras Presidency. - Monopoly
Exclusive control over trade or business by one group or company; East India Company had a monopoly over Indian trade. - Revolt
An uprising or rebellion against authority; many Indian rulers revolted against British expansion.
Something to Know
Tick (✔️) the correct option.
- Where is Fort William located?
(a) Bombay
(b) Calcutta
(c) Cochin
(d) Madras
Answer – (b) Calcutta
- The Battle of Plassey was fought in the year-
(a) 1754
(b) 1755
(c) 1756
(d) 1757
Answer – (d) 1757
- Which ruler was killed in the Fourth Anglo-Mysore war?
(a) Hyder Ali
(b) Shah Alam
(c) Nizam-ul-Mulk
(d) Tipu Sultan
Answer – (d) Tipu Sultan
- The first Governor-General of British India was—
(a) Robert Clive
(b) Warren Hasting
(c) Lord Dalhousie
(d) Lord Wellesley
Answer – (b) Warren Hasting
- In which battle Siraj-ud-Daulah was defeated by Robert Clive?
(a) Battle of Panipat
(b) Battle of Buxar
(c) Battle of Plassey
(d) Battle of Wandiwash
Answer – (c) Battle of Plassey
B. Fill in the blanks.
- ____________ was the capital of Carnatic.
Answer – Arcot
- ____________ built small army units at presidency settlements.
Answer – The East India Company
- ____________ was called back to France in disgrace.
Answer – Count de Lally
- ____________ means the right to collect land revenue.
Answer – Diwani
- Second Anglo-Mysore War ended with the Treaty of ____________ in 1784.
Answer – Mangalore
C. Match the following.
- Lord Wellesley (a) Greatest annexationist
- Tiger of Mysore (b) Governor-General of India in 1798.
- Lord Dalhousie (c) Nawab of Carnatic
- Anwar-ud-Din (d) Tipu Sultan
- Mir Qasim (e) Nawab of Bengal
Answer –
Lord Wellesley – (b) Governor-General of India in 1798
Tiger of Mysore – (d) Tipu Sultan
Lord Dalhousie – (a) Greatest annexationist
Anwar-ud-Din – (c) Nawab of Carnatic
Mir Qasim – (e) Nawab of Bengal
D. Answer the following questions in brief.
- Which Portuguese explorer discovered the sea route to India? How did this mark the beginning of European era in India?
Answer – Vasco da Gama, a Portuguese explorer, discovered the sea route to India in 1498 by reaching Calicut on the western coast. This event marked the beginning of the European era in India, as it opened direct maritime trade between Europe and India and led to the arrival of other European powers like the Dutch, British, and French.
- Why did the European trading companies set-up trade centres in coastal areas?
Answer – European trading companies set up trade centres in coastal areas because:
These regions provided easy access to sea routes for importing and exporting goods.
Ports allowed the safe anchoring of ships and loading/unloading of goods.
Coastal areas were rich in spices, textiles, and other trade goods, making them ideal for trade.
- Explain the policy of ‘Divide and Rule’ adopted by the British. What was its impact on the Indian princes?
Answer – The British policy of ‘Divide and Rule’ aimed to create divisions among Indian rulers, pit them against one another, and weaken their unity. The British made alliances with one ruler against another and then gradually expanded control.
Impact: Indian princes lost trust in each other, remained disunited, and could not present a united resistance against British expansion, ultimately leading to the decline of Indian kingdoms.
- Describe the causes and the consequences of the First Carnatic war.
Answer – Causes:
The First Carnatic War (1746–1748) was caused by the rivalry between the British and French in India, which was part of the Austrian War of Succession in Europe.
The war was mainly fought to gain commercial and political supremacy in South India.
Consequences:
It ended with the Treaty of Aix-la-Chapelle (1748).
Madras, captured by the French, was returned to the British.
It exposed the military weakness of Indian rulers, and encouraged European powers to involve more deeply in Indian affairs.
- How did the assumption of Diwani benefit the East India Company?
Answer – The assumption of Diwani rights (1765) allowed the East India Company to collect revenue from Bengal, Bihar, and Orissa.
Benefits:
Provided financial strength to the Company to maintain army and trade.
Gave political control without direct administrative responsibility.
Marked the shift from trading company to ruling power in India.
E. Answer the following questions.
- How did East India Company become an imperial power in India? Explain.
Answer – The East India Company became an imperial power in India through a combination of military strength, diplomatic tactics, and economic exploitation. Initially arriving as a trading company, it gradually interfered in regional politics, forged alliances, and defeated Indian rulers in battles like the Battle of Plassey (1757) and the Battle of Buxar (1764). These victories gave the Company control over large territories and the right to collect revenue (Diwani) in Bengal, Bihar, and Orissa. The British also followed policies of expansion like the Subsidiary Alliance and Doctrine of Lapse, ultimately transforming the Company from a commercial enterprise into a ruling power.
- What is meant by a Dual government? How did it lead to public suffering?
Answer – The Dual Government was a system introduced by Robert Clive in Bengal in 1765. Under this system, the East India Company held the Diwani rights (revenue collection), while the Nawab retained Nizamat rights (law and order). However, the real power rested with the Company.
This led to public suffering because the Company exploited resources through revenue collection but took no responsibility for administration or welfare. The Nawab, having no funds or authority, could not govern effectively, leading to lawlessness, corruption, and widespread poverty among the people.
- The Battle of Buxar was a turning point in India. Give arguments to support the statement.
Answer – Yes, the Battle of Buxar (1764) was a major turning point in Indian history because:
It decisively established the military superiority of the British East India Company over Indian powers.
The Company defeated the combined forces of Mir Qasim (Nawab of Bengal), Shah Alam II (Mughal Emperor), and Shuja-ud-Daula (Nawab of Awadh).
After the victory, the Treaty of Allahabad (1765) granted the Company Diwani rights over Bengal, Bihar, and Orissa, allowing them to collect revenue directly.
This marked the beginning of British political and administrative control in India, making the Company a sovereign power rather than just a trading body.
- What was the importance of the Battle of Plassey?
Answer – The Battle of Plassey (1757) was important because:
It was the first major military victory of the East India Company in India.
Robert Clive defeated Siraj-ud-Daulah, the Nawab of Bengal, mainly due to the betrayal by Mir Jafar.
The victory allowed the British to control Bengal, the richest province of India.
It marked the start of British colonial rule in India and increased Company influence in Indian politics.
The Company gained enormous economic and political power, which it used to expand its rule across the country.
Value Based Question
The Battle of Plassey was fought between the forces of East India Company led by Robert Clive and Siraj-ud-Daulah, the Nawab of Bengal. Mir Jafar, the Commander-in-Chief who wanted to become the Nawab, bribed Indian soldiers to throw away their weapons. As a result, Robert Clive won the battle. Mir Jafar was made the Nawab of Bengal.
- What was the main reason for the defeat of Siraj-ud-Daulah at the Battle of Plassey?
Answer – The main reason for the defeat of Siraj-ud-Daulah was the betrayal by Mir Jafar, the Commander-in-Chief of his army. Mir Jafar conspired with the British and bribed Indian soldiers to throw away their weapons during the battle. This treachery weakened Siraj-ud-Daulah’s forces and led to an easy victory for Robert Clive and the East India Company.
- If you would have been in place of Mir Jafar, what would you have done and why?
Answer – If I had been in place of Mir Jafar, I would have remained loyal to Siraj-ud-Daulah and fought bravely against the British.
Reason – Loyalty, honesty, and patriotism are core values that protect the dignity of one’s nation. By betraying the Nawab for personal gain, Mir Jafar allowed foreign control over India, which ultimately led to long-term suffering and exploitation. Staying united and truthful would have strengthened India’s resistance against foreign rule.
(Map Skill)
On an outline political map of India, mark the following kingdoms/territories during the expansion of the power of the East India Company.
(a) Mysore
(b) Carnatic
(c) Bengal
(d) Punjab
(e) Hyderabad
(f) Madras
(g) Bombay
Answer – Instructions to Mark the Following on an Outline Political Map of India:
Mysore
Locate Mysore in the southern part of India.
It was ruled by Hyder Ali and later Tipu Sultan, located in the present-day Karnataka region.
Carnatic
The Carnatic region is in the southeastern part of India, which includes present-day Tamil Nadu and parts of Andhra Pradesh.
This was the territory where the Carnatic Wars were fought.
Bengal
Bengal is located in the eastern part of India.
It includes present-day West Bengal and Bangladesh.
Punjab
Punjab is located in the northwestern region of India, today divided into the Indian state of Punjab and Pakistan.
It was ruled by the Sikh Empire at the time.
Hyderabad
Hyderabad was in the central-southern region of India, mostly corresponding to present-day Telangana and parts of Andhra Pradesh.
It was a significant princely state during British expansion.
Madras
Madras (now Chennai) is located on the southeast coast of India in Tamil Nadu.
Bombay
Bombay (now Mumbai) is located on the western coast of India, in Maharashtra.
Something To Do
- Find out-
(a) Why did the Britishers force the Indian farmers to grow indigo?
Answer – The Britishers forced Indian farmers to grow indigo because it was a highly profitable crop in European markets. The dye obtained from indigo was in high demand in the textile industry. The British East India Company monopolized the indigo trade and demanded that Indian farmers cultivate indigo on a large scale. The farmers were often forced to sell the indigo at low prices, resulting in huge profits for the British and economic distress for the farmers.
(b) Why were Indian farmers hesitant to grow indigo?
Answer – Indian farmers were hesitant to grow indigo because it required a lot of labor, and the returns were not enough to sustain their families. They were also forced into contracts under the “Tinkathia System” where they were compelled to grow indigo on a portion of their land. The prices were low, and the farmers had to sell the indigo to British traders at rates dictated by them. Additionally, growing indigo led to soil depletion and affected the farmers’ ability to grow food crops, which made their situation worse.
(c) Collect information about an indigo plant.
Answer – Scientific Name: Indigofera tinctoria
Family: Fabaceae
Native Region: Indigenous to tropical Asia, particularly India.
Description: The indigo plant is a shrub that grows about 3 to 6 feet tall. It has pinnate leaves and clusters of small purple or blue flowers. The plant is known for its blue dye, which is extracted from the leaves through a process of fermentation and drying. Indigo has been historically used as a natural dye for textiles and is one of the oldest dyes known to mankind.
Uses: Indigo dye is used to color fabrics, especially denim, as well as in art and traditional coloring.
- List the factors that favoured the British to win the wars with regional powers in India.
Answer – Superior military technology: The British forces had better-trained soldiers and advanced weaponry, including muskets and cannons, which gave them a significant advantage over the regional powers.
Strategic alliances: The British often formed alliances with rival kingdoms and used the policy of “Divide and Rule” to weaken their enemies.
Strong naval power: The British Navy controlled the seas, which allowed them to control trade routes and supply lines while preventing enemy reinforcements.
Experienced leadership: The British had capable leaders like Robert Clive and Warren Hastings who were skilled in military tactics and diplomacy.
Financial resources: The British East India Company had the financial backing of the British government and was able to fund large, well-equipped armies.
Internal divisions among Indian rulers: Many Indian rulers were often divided and involved in their own conflicts, which made it easier for the British to defeat them in wars.
- Prepare a tabular chart of the Carnatic Wars, the Anglo-Maratha Wars, the Anglo-Mysore Wars and the Anglo-Sikh Wars as shown below.
War Period Warring group Cause/Reason Result
Answer –
War | Period | Warring Group | Cause/Reason | Result |
Carnatic Wars | 1746-1763 | British vs. French | Rivalry for control over trade and influence in southern India | British victory, French influence reduced in India |
Anglo-Maratha Wars | 1775-1818 | British vs. Marathas | British desire to expand control in India, Marathas’ rise to power | British victory, Marathas weakened, British dominance established |
Anglo-Mysore Wars | 1767-1799 | British vs. Mysore (Tipu Sultan) | British expansionism, Mysore’s resistance to British control | British victory, Tipu Sultan killed in 1799, Mysore annexed |
Anglo-Sikh Wars | 1845-1849 | British vs. Sikh Empire | British attempt to expand control in Punjab region | British victory, annexation of Punjab |
Additional Questions and Answers – 01
Fill in the Blanks Questions and Answers
- The Battle of Plassey was fought in the year ____________. Answer: 1757
- ____________ was the first Governor-General of British India. Answer: Warren Hastings
- The Treaty of Paris was signed in the year ____________.
Answer: 1763
- The Battle of Buxar was fought in the year ____________.
Answer: 1764
- ____________ was the Nawab of Bengal who was defeated in the Battle of Plassey.
Answer: Siraj–ud–Daulah
- The first battle between the British East India Company and the Marathas was the ____________.
Answer: First Anglo–Maratha War
- ____________ was the last battle fought between the British and Tipu Sultan.
Answer: Fourth Anglo–Mysore War
- ____________ was the founder of the Maratha Empire.
Answer: Shivaji Maharaj
- The Indian Rebellion of 1857 is also known as the ____________. Answer: Sepoy Mutiny
- ____________ was the British officer who led the forces at the Battle of Plassey.
Answer: Robert Clive
MCQs (Multiple Choice Questions)
- The Treaty of Bassein was signed in ____________.
- (a) 1782
- (b) 1790
- (c) 1791
- (d) 1796
Answer: (c) 1791
- Who was the Governor-General of India when the Sepoy Mutiny broke out?
- (a) Warren Hastings
- (b) Lord Canning
- (c) Lord Dalhousie
- (d) Lord Wellesley
Answer: (b) Lord Canning
- The Battle of Plassey was fought between the British East India Company and ____________.
- (a) Nizam of Hyderabad
- (b) Siraj-ud-Daulah
- (c) Marathas
- (d) Sikhs
Answer: (b) Siraj–ud–Daulah
- Which of the following wars resulted in the annexation of Punjab by the British?
- (a) Anglo-Sikh War
- (b) Anglo-Maratha War
- (c) Anglo-Mysore War
- (d) Carnatic War
Answer: (a) Anglo-Sikh War
- Who was the last ruler of the Maratha Empire?
- (a) Baji Rao II
- (b) Shivaji
- (c) Madhavrao I
- (d) Narayan Rao
Answer: (a) Baji Rao II
True/False Questions and Answers
- The Battle of Buxar was fought between the forces of Robert Clive and the Marathas.
Answer: False - The Treaty of Paris (1763) marked the end of the Seven Years’ War between Britain and France.
Answer: True - Lord Wellesley was responsible for the formation of the Subsidiary Alliance system.
Answer: True - The First Anglo-Mysore War ended in favor of Tipu Sultan.
Answer: False - The Battle of Plassey led to the weakening of the British presence in India.
Answer: False
Competency-Based Questions and Answers
- Question: How did the British East India Company use diplomacy and alliances to expand its control over Indian territories?
Answer:
The British East India Company adopted a diplomatic strategy known as “Divide and Rule.” They formed alliances with rival Indian rulers and played them against each other. For example, in the Battle of Plassey, they allied with Mir Jafar, a commander in Siraj-ud-Daulah’s army, and ensured his betrayal. Similarly, in the Anglo-Maratha Wars, they took advantage of internal divisions among Maratha factions to weaken them.
- Question: What role did the Marathas play in the early expansion of the British in India?
Answer: The Marathas were a formidable force in India and fought the British in several wars. However, their internal conflicts and inability to unite against the British allowed the East India Company to gain a foothold. The British defeated them in the Anglo-Maratha Wars, which significantly reduced their power, allowing the British to extend their control over a large portion of India.
High Order Thinking Skill (HOTS) Questions and Answers
- Question: Analyze the impact of the Battle of Plassey on the socio-political landscape of India.
Answer: The Battle of Plassey was a turning point in Indian history. It marked the beginning of British political dominance in India. The victory, achieved through betrayal, allowed the British East India Company to take control of Bengal, one of the richest provinces. This battle weakened the Mughal Empire and regional powers, and the British gradually expanded their control over India. The long-term impact was the establishment of British colonial rule, leading to socio-economic changes, including the introduction of English education, legal systems, and industrialization, often at the cost of local industries and traditions.
- Question: How did the British strategies of “Divide and Rule” influence Indian unity during the colonial period?
Answer: The British strategies of “Divide and Rule” played a crucial role in undermining Indian unity. By exploiting existing divisions within Indian society, such as caste, religion, and regional rivalries, the British were able to prevent a unified resistance against their rule. They sowed discord between the Hindu and Muslim communities, and often allied with one faction to weaken others. This strategy delayed India’s independence, as it kept various groups divided, reducing the chances of coordinated resistance.
Short Questions and Answers
- Question: Who was Tipu Sultan?
Answer: Tipu Sultan was the ruler of the Kingdom of Mysore in southern India and a fierce opponent of British expansion. He fought in four Anglo-Mysore Wars but was killed in the Fourth Anglo-Mysore War (1799) when the British captured his capital, Srirangapatna.
- Question: What is the Subsidiary Alliance system?
Answer: The Subsidiary Alliance was a diplomatic strategy introduced by Lord Wellesley, where Indian rulers were required to maintain a British force in their kingdom and pay for its upkeep. They also had to agree not to form alliances with other powers without British consent.
Long Questions and Answers
- Question: Discuss the causes and consequences of the Battle of Plassey.
Answer: Causes:
The Battle of Plassey was fought in 1757 between the British East India Company and Siraj-ud-Daulah, the Nawab of Bengal. The causes included Siraj-ud-Daulah’s opposition to the growing influence of the British in Bengal, their fortification of Calcutta without permission, and the British intervention in local politics.
Consequences:
The British victory at Plassey marked the beginning of British dominance in India. The Nawab was defeated, and Mir Jafar was installed as a puppet ruler. The battle established the British East India Company as a powerful political and military force in India, laying the foundation for British colonial rule. The economic exploitation of Bengal also began, which had long-term negative impacts on the region’s prosperity.
- Question: Explain the significance of the Anglo-Maratha Wars in British expansion in India.
Answer: The Anglo-Maratha Wars were significant in the expansion of British power in India because they resulted in the weakening of the Maratha Empire, which had been a strong regional power. The Marathas had a strong military presence in western and central India, but internal divisions and British diplomatic strategies allowed the East India Company to defeat them. By the end of the Third Anglo-Maratha War (1818), the Marathas were reduced to a shadow of their former strength, and much of their territory came under British control. This consolidated British rule across India and secured British dominance in the Indian subcontinent.
Additional Questions and Answer – 02
Fill in the Blanks Questions and Answers
- Vasco da Gama landed at ________ in 1498, marking the beginning of the European era in Indian history.
Answer: Calicut - The Portuguese established their colony in ________ by the sixteenth century.
Answer: Goa - The disintegration of the ________ Empire led to the Age of Imperialism in India.
Answer: Mughal - The East India Company set up trading posts in Surat and the presidency settlements at Port William, Fort St. George, and ________ Castle.
Answer: Bombay - The British introduced the policy of ________ to control Indian princes.
Answer: Divide and Rule - The Carnatic Wars were fought between the English and the ________ for control of trading ports.
Answer: French - The Battle of ________ in 1757 was a significant victory for the East India Company in Bengal.
Answer: Plassey - The Battle of ________ in 1764 established British colonial rule in Bengal Presidency.
Answer: Buxar - The ________ Government in Bengal (1765-72) gave the British the right to collect revenue.
Answer: Dual - The ________ Act of 1773 was passed to regulate the activities of the East India Company.
Answer: Regulating - Hyder Ali became the ruler of ________ after the death of the Wodeyar dynasty’s Raja.
Answer: Mysore - The Treaty of ________ ended the Second Anglo-Mysore War in 1784.
Answer: Mangalore - The Third Anglo-Maratha War (1817-18) abolished the position of ________.
Answer: Peshwa - The British signed the Treaty of ________ after the First Anglo-Sikh War.
Answer: Lahore - Lord ________ annexed Punjab after the Second Anglo-Sikh War in 1849.
Answer: Dalhousie
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) and Answers
- Which European explorer landed at Calicut in 1498?
a) Christopher Columbus
b) Vasco da Gama
c) Ferdinand Magellan
d) Marco Polo
Answer: b) Vasco da Gama - Which European power established a colony in Goa by the sixteenth century?
a) British
b) French
c) Portuguese
d) Dutch
Answer: c) Portuguese - What was the main reason for the rise of European trading companies in India?
a) Strong Mughal Empire
b) Disintegration of the Mughal Empire
c) Indian military strength
d) Lack of trade opportunities
Answer: b) Disintegration of the Mughal Empire - What were the trading centres of European companies called?
a) Forts
b) Factories
c) Presidencies
d) Colonies
Answer: b) Factories - Which policy did the British use to control Indian princes?
a) Subsidiary Alliance
b) Divide and Rule
c) Doctrine of Lapse
d) Permanent Settlement
Answer: b) Divide and Rule - Which two European companies were the main rivals in India during the eighteenth century?
a) Portuguese and Dutch
b) English and French
c) Spanish and British
d) French and Dutch
Answer: b) English and French - In which year was the Battle of Plassey fought?
a) 1746
b) 1757
c) 1764
d) 1770
Answer: b) 1757 - Who led the British forces in the Battle of Buxar?
a) Robert Clive
b) Warren Hastings
c) Hector Munro
d) Lord Wellesley
Answer: c) Hector Munro - What was the outcome of the Dual Government in Bengal (1765-72)?
a) Strengthened the Nawab’s power
b) Gave the British revenue collection rights
c) Ended British influence in Bengal
d) Improved the condition of the public
Answer: b) Gave the British revenue collection rights - Who abolished the Dual Government in Bengal in 1772?
a) Robert Clive
b) Warren Hastings
c) Lord Dalhousie
d) Lord Wellesley
Answer: b) Warren Hastings - Who was the ruler of Mysore during the First Anglo-Mysore War?
a) Tipu Sultan
b) Hyder Ali
c) Wodeyar Raja
d) Nizam of Hyderabad
Answer: b) Hyder Ali - Which treaty ended the Third Anglo-Mysore War?
a) Treaty of Mangalore
b) Treaty of Srirangapattanam
c) Treaty of Paris
d) Treaty of Salbai
Answer: b) Treaty of Srirangapattanam - What was the outcome of the Third Anglo-Maratha War?
a) The Marathas gained more territory
b) The position of Peshwa was abolished
c) The British lost control of Satara
d) The Marathas unified against the British
Answer: b) The position of Peshwa was abolished - Who was the Sikh leader during the First Anglo-Sikh War?
a) Maharaja Ranjit Singh
b) Lal Singh
c) Gulab Singh Dogra
d) Lord Dalhousie
Answer: b) Lal Singh - Which act was passed in 1784 to address the shortcomings of the Regulating Act?
a) Pitt’s India Act
b) Government of India Act
c) Vernacular Press Act
d) Indian Councils Act
Answer: a) Pitt’s India Act
True/False Questions and Answers
- Vasco da Gama’s landing at Calicut in 1498 marked the beginning of the European era in India.
Answer: True - The East India Company was initially established as a military organization.
Answer: False (It was established as a trading company.) - The Mughal Empire’s disintegration led to the emergence of independent states like Bengal and Mysore.
Answer: True - The Carnatic Wars were fought between the British and the Portuguese.
Answer: False (They were fought between the British and the French.) - The Battle of Plassey was won by the British due to the betrayal of Mir Jafar.
Answer: True - The Dual Government in Bengal gave the Nawab complete control over revenue collection.
Answer: False (The British controlled revenue collection.) - The Bengal famine of 1770 occurred during the Dual Government, and the British helped the victims.
Answer: False (The British did not help the victims.) - Hyder Ali signed a treaty of peace with the British after the First Anglo-Mysore War.
Answer: True - The Third Anglo-Maratha War ended the Maratha power in India.
Answer: True - The British annexed Punjab after the Second Anglo-Sikh War in 1849.
Answer: True
Competency-Based Questions and Answers
- Question: Imagine you are a historian analyzing the role of the East India Company’s trading posts in Surat, Madras, and Bombay. How would you use these to explain the Company’s transition from trade to political dominance?
Answer: As a historian, I would examine the establishment of trading posts in Surat, Madras (Fort St. George), and Bombay (Bombay Castle) as strategic moves by the East India Company to secure trade monopolies. These fortified “factories” were initially set up to procure spices, textiles, and indigo at low costs for European markets. By analyzing Company records, I would highlight how these posts became centers for alliances with local princes, enabling the Company to exploit regional rivalries through the “Divide and Rule” policy. The fortifications and military presence at these posts indicate a shift toward political control, as seen in Bengal after the Battle of Plassey (1757). This transition culminated in the Company governing entire regions by 1858, transforming from a trading entity to an imperial power. - Question: Evaluate the significance of the Battle of Plassey (1757) in establishing British control in Bengal using primary sources like British records and Indian accounts.
Answer: The Battle of Plassey (1757) was a turning point in establishing British control in Bengal. British records, such as Robert Clive’s correspondence, would reveal strategic planning, including the betrayal by Mir Jafar, who bribed Indian soldiers to defect, ensuring Clive’s victory. Indian accounts, like those from Siraj-ud-Daulah’s court, would highlight the Nawab’s overconfidence and failure to unify his forces. By cross-referencing these sources, I would show how the victory granted the British control over Bengal’s wealth and trade, with Mir Jafar’s installation as a puppet Nawab consolidating their political dominance. The battle marked the beginning of territorial expansion, setting a precedent for further conquests. - Question: Design a research plan to study the impact of the Carnatic Wars on European rivalry in India using British and French archival documents.
Answer: Research Plan:- Objective: To analyze the impact of the Carnatic Wars (1746–63) on British and French rivalry in India.
- Sources: Collect British records (e.g., East India Company correspondence, Robert Clive’s reports) and French documents (e.g., Dupleix’s letters, French East India Company archives) from the British Library and Bibliothèque Nationale de France.
- Methodology: Compare narratives of the First, Second, and Third Carnatic Wars to assess military strategies, alliances with Indian princes, and outcomes like the Treaty of Paris (1763). Analyze trade data to evaluate economic impacts. Cross-reference with Indian chronicles for local perspectives.
- Expected Outcome: The study will show how the British outmaneuvered the French through superior alliances and military tactics, leading to the dissolution of the French East India Company in 1770 and British supremacy in southern India.
- Question: How would you use the Treaty of Srirangapattanam (1792) to understand the British strategy of weakening Indian rulers like Tipu Sultan?
Answer: The Treaty of Srirangapattanam (1792), ending the Third Anglo-Mysore War, is a key document to understand British strategies. By analyzing its terms—Tipu Sultan ceding half his territory and handing over his sons as hostages—I would infer that the British aimed to economically and politically weaken Mysore. The territorial losses reduced Tipu’s resources, while the hostage clause ensured compliance. Cross-referencing with British records, such as Lord Cornwallis’s dispatches, would reveal the intent to curb Tipu’s French alliances and prevent Mysore from challenging British dominance. The treaty exemplifies the British tactic of using military victories to impose crippling terms, paving the way for further annexations. - Question: Assess the role of the Subsidiary Alliance in the British expansion during the Anglo-Maratha Wars using examples from historical treaties.
Answer: The Subsidiary Alliance was a cornerstone of British expansion during the Anglo-Maratha Wars (1775–1818). By examining treaties like the one signed by Peshwa Baji Rao II in 1801, I would highlight how the British provided military protection in exchange for control over the ruler’s foreign policy and revenue. This ensured Maratha dependency, as seen when Baji Rao II relied on British troops against Jaswant Rao Holkar. The Treaty of Salbai (1782) and later treaties with the Sindias and Bhosales further illustrate how the British used alliances to fragment Maratha unity, stationing residents to monitor courts and isolate rulers from European rivals. This strategy weakened the Marathas, culminating in their defeat in 1818.
High Order Thinking Skill (HOTS) Questions and Answers
- Question: Why did the East India Company transition from a trading entity to a political power, and how did this reflect broader European imperial ambitions?
Answer: The East India Company’s transition from trade to political power was driven by the need to protect its commercial interests amid European rivalry and Indian political fragmentation. The Mughal Empire’s decline created a power vacuum, which the Company exploited through military buildup and alliances, as seen in the Carnatic Wars and Battle of Plassey. This reflects broader European imperial ambitions, where trade monopolies required territorial control to counter rivals like the French. The Company’s “Divide and Rule” policy and Subsidiary Alliances mirror European strategies of exploiting local divisions, ensuring economic dominance and political supremacy, a pattern seen in colonial expansions globally. - Question: Analyze the role of betrayals, such as Mir Jafar’s in the Battle of Plassey, in the British conquest of India.
Answer: Betrayals like Mir Jafar’s in the Battle of Plassey (1757) were pivotal in the British conquest of India. Mir Jafar, aspiring to be Nawab, bribed Siraj-ud-Daulah’s soldiers to defect, enabling Robert Clive’s victory with minimal resistance. This betrayal secured Bengal, providing the British with immense wealth and a strategic base. Similar betrayals, such as Lal Singh’s in the First Anglo-Sikh War, highlight how the British exploited internal rivalries and ambitions among Indian elites. By fostering disloyalty through promises of power, the British weakened unified resistance, demonstrating their strategic use of psychological and political manipulation to expand control. - Question: Evaluate the impact of the Dual Government in Bengal (1765–72) on the region’s socio-economic conditions and its role in British consolidation.
Answer: The Dual Government in Bengal (1765–72), where the British controlled revenue and the Nawab managed administration, had a devastating socio-economic impact. The British extracted vast revenues without responsibility, leading to mismanagement and neglect. The Bengal famine of 1770, which killed thousands, resulted from this system’s inefficiencies, as the Company prioritized profits over welfare, and the Nawab lacked resources. This arrangement consolidated British power by giving them financial control without administrative burdens, weakening local governance. Its abolition by Warren Hastings in 1772 marked a shift to direct rule, solidifying British dominance while exposing the exploitative nature of early colonial governance. - Question: How did the Anglo-Mysore Wars reflect the British strategy of neutralizing powerful Indian states through alliances and warfare?
Answer: The Anglo-Mysore Wars (1767–99) showcase the British strategy of neutralizing powerful states like Mysore through a combination of alliances and warfare. In the First Anglo-Mysore War, Hyder Ali’s success prompted the British to form a Triple Alliance with the Nizam and Marathas, only for Hyder to outmaneuver them diplomatically. Subsequent wars saw the British exploit Tipu Sultan’s French alliances, as in the Third and Fourth Wars, using pretexts like Travancore’s invasion to attack. Treaties like Srirangapattanam (1792) weakened Mysore by seizing territory, while the final victory in 1799 annexed most of Mysore, demonstrating the British tactic of isolating and dismantling threats through strategic coalitions and relentless military campaigns. - Question: Assess the significance of the Subsidiary Alliance in undermining the autonomy of Indian rulers during the Anglo-Maratha and Anglo-Sikh Wars.
Answer: The Subsidiary Alliance was a masterstroke in undermining Indian rulers’ autonomy, as seen in the Anglo-Maratha and Anglo-Sikh Wars. By offering military protection in exchange for financial tributes and control over foreign policy, the British ensured rulers like Peshwa Baji Rao II (Anglo-Maratha Wars) and Sikh leaders post-Ranjit Singh became dependent. The presence of British residents in courts, as in the Maratha treaties, curtailed diplomatic freedom, isolating rulers from allies like the French. This system fragmented powerful confederacies, as Maratha chieftains failed to unify, and weakened the Sikhs after Ranjit Singh’s death, enabling annexations like Punjab in 1849. The Alliance exemplifies British indirect control, paving the way for territorial expansion.
Short Questions and Answers
- Question: Who landed at Calicut in 1498?
Answer: Vasco da Gama. - Question: Which European power established a colony in Goa?
Answer: Portuguese. - Question: What led to the Age of Imperialism in India?
Answer: Disintegration of the Mughal Empire. - Question: What were European trading centres in India called?
Answer: Factories. - Question: Which British policy controlled Indian princes?
Answer: Divide and Rule. - Question: Who were the main rivals in the Carnatic Wars?
Answer: English and French. - Question: Who won the Battle of Plassey?
Answer: Robert Clive (East India Company). - Question: What right did the British gain after the Battle of Buxar?
Answer: Diwani (revenue collection). - Question: Who abolished the Dual Government in Bengal?
Answer: Warren Hastings. - Question: Who ruled Mysore during the First Anglo-Mysore War?
Answer: Hyder Ali. - Question: Which treaty ended the Third Anglo-Mysore War?
Answer: Treaty of Srirangapattanam. - Question: What was abolished after the Third Anglo-Maratha War?
Answer: Position of Peshwa. - Question: Who was defeated in the Second Anglo-Sikh War?
Answer: Sikh Kingdom. - Question: Which act regulated the East India Company in 1773?
Answer: Regulating Act. - Question: Who annexed Punjab in 1849?
Answer: Lord Dalhousie.
Long Questions and Answers
- Question: Discuss how the East India Company transformed from a trading company to an imperial power in India, highlighting key events.
Answer: The East India Company’s transformation from a trading entity to an imperial power was a gradual process driven by commercial ambitions and political opportunities. Established to trade in spices, textiles, and indigo, the Company set up fortified “factories” in Surat, Madras, and Bombay. The Mughal Empire’s decline after Aurangzeb’s death (1707) created a power vacuum, which the Company exploited. Key events include the Carnatic Wars (1746–63), where victories over the French established British dominance in southern India. The Battle of Plassey (1757) secured Bengal by installing Mir Jafar as a puppet Nawab, granting wealth and territorial control. The Battle of Buxar (1764) and the subsequent Diwani rights (1765) gave the Company revenue authority, cementing its political power. Policies like “Divide and Rule” and Subsidiary Alliances with Indian princes further weakened local resistance. By 1858, the Company governed vast regions, transitioning into an auxiliary government with military and administrative control, until the British Crown took over after the Revolt of 1857. - Question: Explain the significance of the Carnatic Wars in establishing British supremacy over the French in India.
Answer: The Carnatic Wars (1746–63) were pivotal in establishing British supremacy over the French in India. The First Carnatic War (1746–48) saw French success under Dupleix, capturing Madras, but the Treaty of Aix-la-Chapelle (1748) restored it to the British, revealing French vulnerabilities. The Second Carnatic War (1749–54) involved British alliances with Nasir Jung, defeating French-backed Chanda Sahib and Muzaffar Jung, securing trade dominance in southern India. The Third Carnatic War (1756–63), culminating in the Battle of Wandiwash (1760) and the capture of Pondicherry, decisively weakened the French. The Treaty of Paris (1763) limited French influence, while British victories, led by Robert Clive, showcased superior military strategy and alliances with Indian princes. The dissolution of the French East India Company in 1770 marked the end of French imperial ambitions, leaving the British as the dominant European power in India. - Question: Analyze the role of the Battles of Plassey and Buxar in consolidating British control over Bengal and their broader impact on India.
Answer: The Battles of Plassey (1757) and Buxar (1764) were critical in consolidating British control over Bengal and shaping colonial rule in India. The Battle of Plassey, won through Mir Jafar’s betrayal of Siraj-ud-Daulah, allowed the East India Company to install a puppet Nawab, gaining control of Bengal’s wealth and trade. The victory provided a strategic base for further expansion. The Battle of Buxar, where Hector Munro defeated the combined forces of Mir Qasim, Shah Alam II, and Shuja-ud-Daulah, secured the Diwani rights (1765), granting the British revenue collection authority over Bengal, Bihar, and Orissa. This financial power fueled military and administrative growth. The Dual Government (1765–72) that followed enriched the British but impoverished Bengal, as seen in the 1770 famine. These battles established the British as a territorial power, setting a precedent for annexations and influencing policies like Subsidiary Alliances, which weakened Indian states and expanded British dominance across India. - Question: Evaluate the impact of the Anglo-Mysore Wars on the British strategy to dominate southern India.
Answer: The Anglo-Mysore Wars (1767–99) were instrumental in the British strategy to dominate southern India by neutralizing the powerful state of Mysore under Hyder Ali and Tipu Sultan. The First Anglo-Mysore War (1767–69) exposed British vulnerabilities, as Hyder Ali nearly captured Madras, forcing a peace treaty. The Second War (1780–84) saw Hyder’s victories, but Tipu’s continuation ended with the Treaty of Mangalore, maintaining a stalemate. The Third War (1789–92), triggered by Tipu’s attack on British-allied Travancore, resulted in the Treaty of Srirangapattanam, which crippled Mysore by ceding half its territory. The Fourth War (1799) culminated in Tipu’s death and the annexation of most of Mysore, with the British restoring the Wodeyar dynasty under their control. These wars reflect the British strategy of using pretexts, alliances (e.g., with the Nizam and Marathas), and relentless warfare to eliminate threats, ensuring unchallenged dominance in southern India and weakening French influence through Tipu’s defeat. - Question: Discuss the role of the Subsidiary Alliance and “Divide and Rule” policies in the British conquests during the Anglo-Maratha and Anglo-Sikh Wars.
Answer: The Subsidiary Alliance and “Divide and Rule” policies were central to British conquests in the Anglo-Maratha (1775–1818) and Anglo-Sikh Wars (1845–49). The Subsidiary Alliance, as seen in the treaty with Peshwa Baji Rao II (1801), required Indian rulers to maintain British troops and accept residents, undermining their autonomy and finances. This fragmented the Marathas, as chieftains like the Sindias and Bhosales were coerced into treaties, preventing unified resistance. The “Divide and Rule” policy exploited internal rivalries, such as supporting Raghunath Rao against Madhav Rao II in the First Anglo-Maratha War, leading to the Treaty of Salbai (1782). In the Third Anglo-Maratha War, Baji Rao II’s failure to unite the Marathas resulted in the abolition of the Peshwa position. Similarly, in the Anglo-Sikh Wars, the British capitalized on infighting after Ranjit Singh’s death, with betrayals by Lal Singh and Tej Singh in the First War (1845–46) weakening the Sikhs. The Second War (1848–49) ended with Punjab’s annexation. These policies ensured British control by isolating rulers, fostering dependency, and exploiting divisions, dismantling powerful Indian confederacies.