Traders to Rulers (II)

• The ICSE 8th History chapter “Traders to Rulers (II)” examines how the British East India Company transitioned from a commercial entity to a dominant political force in India. Initially focused on trade, the Company shrewdly exploited India’s internal divisions, formed strategic alliances, and used military might to expand its influence.
• These victories secured significant territorial control and vital revenue rights, notably the Diwani of Bengal, giving the British immense administrative and financial power.
• Conversely, the chapter highlights the decline of Indian powers such as the Mughals and Marathas, who weakened due to internal conflicts and were outmaneuvered by British military and economic superiority.
• The chapter also discusses the Company’s early administrative systems, like the dual government in Bengal, designed to maximize revenue while maintaining a facade of local rule. Crucially, it emphasizes how the Company’s policies shifted from simple trade to systematic economic exploitation, leading to the appropriation of India’s resources and widespread impoverishment.

Exercise

I. Fill in the blanks:

1. The British had to face the challenge of the rulers of___________ and ___________ after the conquest of Bengal.

Ans : Hyderabad,Mysore, Marathas

2. The new Nizam of Hyderabad,_________ initially had cordial relations with the English.

Ans : Salabat Jung

3. ____________ made the Nizam of Hyderabad enter the ________system.

Ans : Lord Wellesley,Subsidiary Alliance 

4. The English fought________ wars with rulers of Mysore, known as _________

Ans : four ,Anglo-Mysore wars

5. It took the British ________ to defeat the Marathas in three __________wars.

Ans : 43 years,Anglo-Maratha 

6. Lord Dalhousie annexed __________ on the basis of misgovernance.

Ans : Awadh

II. Match the contents of Column A and Column B:
Column A                                 Column B


Answer:


III. State whether the following statements are True or False:

1. The Subsidiary Alliance system was started by Lord Cornwallis.
Ans : False

2. The capture of the port of Mahe by the British led to the Second Anglo-Mysore War in 1780
Ans : True

3. Tipu won a great battle against his three enemies, the English, Nizam and the Marathas in 1792
Ans : False

4. The war of succession among the Marathas in 1772 gave a chance to the English to interfere in Maratha politics.
Ans : True

5. The Second Anglo-Maratha war was fought when Lord Wellesley was the Governor General of India.
Ans : True

6. Jhansi and Nagpur were annexed under the pretext of misgovernance.
Ans : False

IV. Answer the following questions:

1)What were the results of the First Anglo-Mysore War?
Answer:The First Anglo-Mysore War (1767-1769) ended with Hyder Ali’s decisive victory, leading to the 1769 Treaty of Madras. This treaty stipulated the return of captured lands, prisoner exchanges, and a vital defensive alliance requiring the British East India Company to aid Hyder Ali if attacked. Despite this agreement, the British failed to uphold their commitment, a breach that ultimately paved the way for the Second Anglo-Mysore War.

Question 2.
How did the British force win the Third Anglo-Mysore War?
Answer:The British won the Third Anglo-Mysore War by forming a powerful Triple Alliance with the Marathas and the Nizam, outnumbering Tipu Sultan. Triggered by Tipu’s attack on British-allied Travancore, the allied forces captured key territories like Bangalore and besieged Tipu’s capital, Seringapatam. This forced Tipu to sign the Treaty of Seringapatam, ceding half his kingdom, paying a huge indemnity, and surrendering his sons as hostages, which crippled Mysore and solidified British power in South India.

Question 3.
What were the causes of the Fourth Anglo-Mysore War? What were its results?
Answer:The Fourth Anglo-Mysore War stemmed from Tipu Sultan’s rejection of British supremacy and his French alliances, seen as a direct threat by Lord Wellesley. The war ended with Tipu Sultan’s defeat and death, the capture of Srirangapatnam, and the annexation of much of Mysore’s territory. The remaining kingdom, under the Wodeyar dynasty, became a British subsidiary state, solidifying British dominance in South India.

Question 4.
Name the four different centres of Maratha power.
Answer:

1. Pune (Poona) – The seat of the Peshwas, who were the de facto rulers and prime ministers of the Maratha Empire.
2. Gwalior – Controlled by the Scindia family.
3. Indore – Controlled by the Holkar family.
4. Nagpur – Controlled by the Bhonsle family.
5. Baroda – Controlled by the Gaekwad family.

Self-correction: While traditionally listed as four, the Gaekwads of Baroda also formed a significant independent Maratha state within the confederacy, making it effectively five major centers under the nominal leadership of the Peshwa.

Question 5.
What were the causes and results of the First Anglo-Maratha War? When was it fought?
Answer:The First Anglo-Maratha War (1775-1782) erupted from a Maratha succession dispute between Raghunathrao and Narayanrao, prompting Raghunathrao to seek British East India Company aid via the Treaty of Surat. This intervention was met with strong opposition from the Maratha Council, escalating into conflict. While resulting in a stalemate, the conflict significantly marked the initial foray of British influence into Maratha political affairs.

Question 6.
Who was the Governor-General of India during the Second Anglo-Maratha War? What was the significance of this battle?
Answer:During the Second Anglo-Maratha War (1803-1805), Governor-General Lord Richard Wellesley presided over a conflict that effectively dismantled the Maratha Confederacy’s power. British victories, cemented by treaties such as Bassein, Deogaon, and Surji-Arjangaon, allowed the East India Company to annex substantial territories in central and western India. This expansion significantly broadened British dominion and established their supremacy across a vast swathe of the subcontinent.

Question 7.
Why was the Third Anglo-Maratha War fought? What were its results?
Answer:The Third Anglo-Maratha War (1817-1818) was ignited by a clash of ambitions: British expansionism versus the Marathas’ desire to reclaim their independence. British actions against the Pindaris, seen by the Marathas as an attack on their sovereignty, along with deep-seated Maratha resentment over British meddling in their internal affairs (exacerbated by the 1802 Treaty of Bassein), were central causes. A final, desperate attempt by Maratha leaders to unite against the growing British threat also played a role.

The war ended in a conclusive British triumph, fundamentally reshaping India’s political map. This victory cemented British dominance over a significant portion of the subcontinent. Vast Maratha lands were absorbed, mainly into the Bombay Presidency, and the remaining Maratha chiefs were relegated to subsidiary positions through treaties, solidifying British authority. A descendant of Chhatrapati Shivaji was installed as a figurehead in Satara, effectively marking the end of the Maratha’s distinct political power.

Question 8.
State very briefly why the Marathas failed against the British.
Answer:The Marathas ultimately failed against the British due to a combination of factors:

• Disunity and Internal Strife: The Maratha Confederacy was plagued by constant infighting among its chiefs (Scindia, Holkar, Bhonsle, Gaekwad), preventing a united front against the British.
• Superior British Military and Diplomacy: The British possessed a more disciplined, modern army, advanced weaponry, and a centralized command structure. They also skillfully exploited Maratha rivalries through alliances and subsidies.
• Economic Weakness: Constant warfare and a lack of sound administrative policies weakened the Maratha economy, making it difficult to sustain prolonged conflicts.
• Lack of Modernization: The Marathas were slow to adopt modern military techniques, artillery, and administrative reforms, lagging behind the technologically superior British.

Question 9.
Explain the doctrine of Lapse. Name the other methods used by Lord Dalhousie to expand the British power in India.
Answer:Lord Dalhousie, as Governor-General from 1848 to 1856, aggressively expanded British territory and centralized control in India. His primary tool was the Doctrine of Lapse, which allowed the British to annex Indian states if their rulers died without a natural male heir, disregarding the Indian tradition of adoption (e.g., Satara, Jhansi, Nagpur). He also acquired land through military victories (Punjab, Lower Burma) and by citing “misgovernance,” most controversially in the annexation of Awadh in 1856, which caused widespread discontent. Furthermore, he diminished the power of Indian royalty by ending their titles and pensions, like that of Nana Sahib, thereby strengthening British authority. These policies significantly fueled resentment, contributing to the 1857 Revolt.

V. Word HuntGiven below is a grid. Look for names of places which Dalhousie annexed. You have to look vertically, horizontally and diagonally. In total there are 8 places. After you have found these places, write down why these were annexed.
Answer:

Additional Questions

Rise of British Power in Bengal

 A. Fill the in the blanks:

1. _____________became the headquarters of the British settlements in the southern, western and eastern regions, respectively.

Ans : Madras, Bombay and Calcutta  

2. In 1717, the Mughal emperor granted the United East India Company the right to carry on duty-free trade in _______________.

Ans : Bengal, Bihar and Orissa

3. The French East India Company was established in ________.

Ans : 1664 C.E

4. The British and the French fought the __________Wars in India to establish their monopoly in trade.

Ans : Carnatic 

5. Bengal in the 18th century was the ____________province in India.

Ans : richest and the most fertile 

6. In 1757 Robert Clive recovered Calcutta which had been captured by Siraj-ud-Daulah in _____________.

Ans : 1756

7. Mir Jafar was deposed because he was unable to meet the demands of the _____.

Ans : British

8. In 1765, Awadh was returned to ________ but _________ were taken away and given to___________

Ans : Shuja-ud-Daulah,Kora and Allahabad, Shah Alam II.

9. Shah Alam II granted the Company the _________ in 1765.

Ans : Diwani of Bengal, Bihar and Orissa

10. Warren Hastings deposed and pensioned off the Nawab of Bengal and brought Bengal under the direct, and __________ of the Company.

Ans : complete control

B. Match the following:

Answer:

C. Choose the correct answer:

Question 1.
The English East India Company was established in the year 1600/1700/1800 CE.
Answer:They secured a royal charter from Queen Elizabeth I, aiming to monopolize trade with the East Indies, particularly in lucrative spices. This establishment marked a pivotal moment, as the Company gradually transformed from a simple trading enterprise into a formidable political and military force, laying the groundwork for eventual British dominance in India.

Question 2.
The English East India Company set up its first factory in Surat/Agra/Broach.
Answer:The English East India Company did indeed establish its first factory in Surat. This significant event occurred in 1613, marking a crucial step in their commercial and later political presence in India. Surat was chosen due to its prominence as a major port city and a bustling center for trade at that time.

Question 3.
The largest and the most prosperous European settlement in Bengal was the British settlement at Calcutta/Burdwan/ Murshidabad.
Answer:Among all the European powers present in Bengal, the British settlement at Calcutta (now Kolkata) grew to be the largest and most affluent. Its strategic location on the Hooghly River, coupled with the East India Company’s growing political and economic power, allowed it to eclipse other European trading posts and become the vibrant hub of British India.

Question 4.
Alivardi Khan was succeeded by Mir Qasim/Siraj-ud- Daulah/Shuja-ud-Daula.
Answer:After Alivardi Khan’s passing, his grandson, Siraj-ud-Daulah, ascended to the Nawabship of Bengal, Bihar, and Orissa. However, his rule was immediately undermined by domestic intrigues, most notably from his influential aunt Ghaseti Begum and his disloyal commander Mir Jafar. This extensive internal opposition significantly weakened his authority precisely when he needed to confront the rising power of the British East India Company. This pervasive instability within his own court played a critical role in his decisive defeat at the Battle of Plassey in 1757, which ultimately marked the beginning of British dominance in India.

Question 5.
Robert Clive hatched a plot with Mir Jafar/Mir Qasim/ Alivardi Khan to replace Siraj-ud-Daulah.
Answer:In 1757, Robert Clive of the British East India Company, through an alliance with Mir Jafar, a disaffected commander in Siraj-ud-Daulah’s army, orchestrated a pivotal victory at the Battle of Plassey. Mir Jafar’s betrayal during the battle was crucial to the British success.

Question 6.
The Battle of Plassey was fought in 1757/1764/1772.
Answer:The Battle of Plassey, in 1757, was a turning point for India, where Robert Clive’s British East India Company forces decisively defeated Siraj-ud-Daulah, the Nawab of Bengal. This triumph essentially laid the groundwork for British political supremacy and the subsequent two centuries of colonial rule in the subcontinent.

Question 7.
The Dual Government in Bengal was introduced by Robert Clive/Warren Hastings/Lord Cornwallis.
Answer:In 1765, Robert Clive introduced the Dual Government system in Bengal, a setup that effectively gave the British East India Company the lucrative right to collect revenue, known as ‘Diwani’. Concurrently, the Nawab of Bengal was left with the burden of administration and justice, or ‘Nizamat’. This clever arrangement allowed the Company to amass immense financial power and control over Bengal’s rich resources, all while sidestepping the direct responsibilities of governance. The consequence for Bengal was severe: this period marked the beginning of intense exploitation and significant suffering for its populace.

D. State whether the following are true or false:

1. The Carnatic Wars were fought between the British and the French.
Ans : True

2. The employees of the Company were entitled to both private trade as well as duty-free trade.
Ans : False
Correct: The employees of the Company were permitted to carry on private trade but they were not entitled to the Company’s privilege of duty-free trade.

3. The English East India Company was given the right to issue passes or dastaks for the free movement of their goods.
Ans : True

4. The British army was defeated in the Battle of Buxar.
Ans : False
Correct : The British army won in the Battle of Buxar.

5. The Treaty of Allahabad was signed between the British Company and Mir Qasim.
Ans :  False

Correct: The Treaty of Allahabad was signed between the British and Shuja-ud-Daulah.

6. Warren Hastings laid the foundation of an organized system of government in Bengal.
Ans : True

Answer the following questions in one or two words/ sentences:

Question 1.
Who granted the English East India Company the exclusive right to trade with the East ?
Answer:
In the year 1600, a landmark decision by Queen Elizabeth I of England profoundly shaped the course of global trade and British imperial ambitions. She issued a royal charter to the English East India Company, a document of immense significance that granted the newly formed entity a monopoly on all trade between England and the vast territories located east of the Cape of Good Hope. This exclusive right was not merely a commercial advantage; it served as the critical catalyst for Britain’s burgeoning involvement, initially commercial and ultimately political, with the Indian subcontinent and other Asian regions. The charter essentially empowered the Company with an unparalleled privilege, laying the groundwork for its remarkable transformation from a mercantile venture into a powerful commercial and political force that would exert profound influence over the destiny of an entire continent.

Question 2.
Name the British trading settlements in
(a) Madras  (b)Calcutta
Answer:
The British East India Company strategically established major trading centers across India to solidify their commercial dominance.

(a) Madras: In 1639, they founded Fort St. George in Madras. This settlement quickly evolved into a vital nexus for British trade in Southern India and subsequently served as a significant administrative hub.

(b) Calcutta: Towards the close of the 17th century, the British set up Fort William in Calcutta. This fort was instrumental in overseeing their extensive trade activities in Eastern India, ultimately transforming into a powerful military and political stronghold.

These foundational trading posts were crucial in enabling the British to progressively tighten their grip on India in the ensuing years.

Question 3.
What important right did the Mughal emperor Farrukhsiyar grant the English East India Company ?
Answer:
In 1717, Mughal Emperor Farrukhsiyar’s farman granted the English East India Company significant concessions: duty-free trade in Bengal, Bihar, and Orissa, mint access, and permission to rent villages. This greatly boosted the Company’s commercial and political influence.

Question 4.
Why were European traders attracted to the Bengal province in the 18th century?
Answer:
18th-century Bengal’s immense wealth and economic significance drew European traders. The region boasted rich agricultural produce like rice and sugar, and was renowned for its fine textiles, particularly muslin and silk. Its rivers and coastal access made it a vital trade center, further attracting interest with valuable goods such as saltpetre, indigo, and spices. Despite political unrest, Bengal’s robust economy and active trade networks made it a prime location for European powers seeking profit and influence in India.

Question 5.
What privileges did the farman of 1717 confer on the English East India Company?
Answer:
In 1717, Mughal Emperor Farrukhsiyar’s decree granted the East India Company substantial concessions, including duty-free trade in Bengal, Bihar, and Orissa, minting rights, and the ability to lease villages. These privileges significantly enhanced the Company’s economic leverage, laying the groundwork for their eventual political ascendancy.

Question 6.
Why did the farman of 1717 become a bone of contention between the nawabs of Bengal and the British Company?
Answer:
The 1717 Farman sparked significant conflict due to the British East India Company’s abuse of duty-free trade concessions in Bengal. This privilege led to substantial revenue losses for the Nawabs, who saw it as an undermining of their authority. The Company’s widespread misuse of these rights and their refusal to pay rightful taxes fueled continuous tension.

Question 7.
Why did the British fortify their trade settlement in Calcutta?
Answer:
The British fortified Calcutta mainly to protect their trade from European rivals and local dangers, ensuring their commercial dominance in Bengal. These defenses secured their business and solidified their control, helping them establish a strong base to expand influence and counter threats. This strategy ultimately strengthened their political and economic power in India.

Question 8.
Why did Siraj-ud-Daulah attack Calcutta in 1756?
Answer:
Siraj-ud-Daulah attacked Calcutta in 1756 primarily because the British East India Company fortified the city without his permission, violating their agreement. He also suspected the British of supporting his political rivals and evading taxes. Additionally, the British granted asylum to one of his enemies, further angering him. These actions led Siraj to seize Calcutta to assert his authority.

Question 9.
What important trading right was granted to the English East India Company after its victory in the Battle of Plassey?
Answer:After the 1757 Battle of Plassey, the English East India Company secured crucial duty-free trade rights in Bengal, Bihar, and Orissa. This privilege gave them a significant economic edge over both native and other European traders.

Question 10.
State the political significance of the Battle of Buxar.
Answer:In 1764, the British decisively defeated the combined forces of Mir Qasim, Shuja-ud-Daula, and Shah Alam II at the Battle of Buxar. This pivotal victory led to the 1765 Treaty of Allahabad, which granted the British the valuable diwani rights for Bengal, Bihar, and Orissa, significantly consolidating their political power in India. The Mughal Emperor was effectively reduced to a British pensioner as a result.

Question 11.
Name the Indian signatories of the Treaty of Allahabad.
Answer:
The Treaty of Allahabad, signed on August 16, 1765, was a pivotal moment in Indian history, solidifying the British East India Company’s rise to political dominance. This treaty, which came in the aftermath of the Battle of Buxar in 1764, involved several key signatories.

The prominent Indian signatories of the Treaty of Allahabad were:

Mughal Emperor Shah Alam II: As the reigning Mughal Emperor, Shah Alam II was a central figure. Despite his diminished power, his imperial firman (royal decree) was crucial for legitimizing the East India Company’s territorial and revenue rights. Under the terms of the treaty, Shah Alam II granted the Diwani (right to collect revenue) of Bengal, Bihar, and Orissa to the British East India Company. In return, he was promised an annual tribute and was granted the districts of Kora and Allahabad for his residence. Effectively, he became a pensioner of the Company.

Question 12.
In which year was the Dual Government abolished and by whom?
Answer:
The Dual Government in Bengal, a system where the East India Company held power without accountability and the Nawab had authority without control, was abolished in 1772 by Warren Hastings. As the first Governor of Bengal, Hastings recognized the system’s corruption, exploitation, and revenue decline. His decisive action brought Bengal under the Company’s direct administration, ending the Nawab’s nominal rule and significantly advancing British consolidation in India.

F.Answer the following questions briefly:

Question 1.
The Battle of Plassey was a major turning point in the history of India. In this context answer the following questions:
(a) Give an account of the events leading from the conspiracy to replace Siraj-ud-Daulah to his eventual defeat in the Battle of Plassey.

(b)State the results of the Battle of Plassey.
**(c) Why is this battle considered a major turning point in the history of India?
Answer:
(a)
Siraj-ud-Daulah’s defeat at Plassey stemmed from internal dissent and British machinations. His autocratic rule alienated court members and wealthy merchants. The British East India Company, led by Robert Clive, exploited this discontent, forming a secret alliance with figures like Mir Jafar, Jagat Seth, and Omichand. On June 23, 1757, at Plassey, Mir Jafar’s betrayal—holding back a significant portion of the Nawab’s army—decisively crippled Siraj-ud-Daulah’s forces, leading to his quick defeat and assassination..
(b)
The Battle of Plassey was a pivotal event, fundamentally shifting power in India. It cemented the British  East India Company’s dominance in Bengal, transforming them from traders to rulers. This led to significant economic exploitation, as the Company siphoned off Bengal’s wealth for its own expansion, rather than reinvestment. Crucially, Plassey marked the true dawn of British colonial rule in India, highlighting the internal fragilities of Indian states that the British expertly exploited to further their empire.

(c)
The Battle of Plassey was pivotal as it granted the British East India Company political and economic supremacy in Bengal, diminishing the Nawab’s authority and commencing British colonial expansion in India.

Question 2.
Mir Qasim was a competent ruler, determined to free himself from foreign control. In this context answer the following:
(a) What steps did Mir Qasim take to strengthen his position? Why did he abolish all duties on internal trade?
(b) Trace the events from the outbreak of war (1763) between Mir Qasim and the British up to the Battle of Buxar in 1764.
(c) Explain the importance of the Battle of Buxar.
Answer:
(a)Mir Qasim, driven by a desire for independence from British influence, implemented several measures to bolster his authority. He modernized his army, recruiting European mercenaries and improving their training and weaponry. He also streamlined the administration and efficiently collected revenue to fill his treasury.He abolished all duties on internal trade primarily to eliminate the unfair advantage held by the British East India Company. The Company, under the pretext of farmans (royal decrees), often traded duty-free, putting Indian merchants at a significant disadvantage and causing a substantial loss of revenue for Mir Qasim’s government. By making internal trade duty-free for everyone, he aimed to create a level playing field and assert his control over the economic affairs of his province.

(b)Mir Qasim’s efforts to reform Bengal and challenge British trade privileges led to conflict. His abolition of internal trade duties in 1763, which aimed to create fair competition, was the catalyst. However, this combined Indian force was decisively defeated by Major Hector Munro’s British troops at the Battle of Buxar on October 22, 1764. This pivotal British victory cemented their control over India.

(c)The Battle of Buxar in 1764 proved a pivotal moment, cementing British dominance in India. The British East India Company’s decisive triumph over the allied forces of Mir Qasim, Shah Alam II, and Shuja-ud-Daula effectively secured their command over Bengal, Bihar, and Orissa. This victory directly led to the acquisition of Diwani rights in 1765, marking the true genesis of British political authority and laying the groundwork for their colonial empire in India.

Question 3.
With reference to the Treaty of Allahabad and its impact,answer the following:
(a) Mention the terms of agreement between Robert Clive and Shuja-ud-Daulah in this treaty.
(b) Explain how the treaty between Robert Clive and the Mughal emperor Shah Alam II legalized the English East India’s Company’s control over Bengal.
(c) Give an account of the events that followed the death of Mir Jafar, leading to the establishment of the Company as the real ruler of Bengal.
Answer:
(a)The 1765 Treaty of Allahabad, following the Battle of Buxar, outlined specific terms between Robert Clive (for the British East India Company) and Shuja-ud-Daulah (Nawab of Awadh). Shuja-ud-Daulah agreed to surrender Allahabad and Kara to Mughal Emperor Shah Alam II and pay the East India Company a 50 lakh rupee war indemnity. He also granted Balwant Singh, the Zamindar of Banaras, full control of his estate. A key aspect was the alliance, where the Company pledged to defend Awadh from external threats, with Shuja-ud-Daulah covering troop expenses, essentially making Awadh a British-dependent buffer state.

(b)The 1765 Treaty of Allahabad, signed by Robert Clive and Mughal Emperor Shah Alam II, cemented the English East India Company’s power in Bengal. It granted the Company Diwani rights, allowing them to collect revenue in Bengal, Bihar, and Orissa, effectively giving them financial control. In exchange, the Emperor received an annual pension and military protection, making him reliant on the Company. This arrangement established indirect rule, with the Nawab of Bengal becoming a mere figurehead while true authority lay with the Company. Ultimately, the treaty provided legal authority for British dominance, transforming the East India Company from a commercial enterprise into a territorial power.

(c)Mir Jafar’s death in 1765 marked a critical turning point for the British East India Company in Bengal. Having already established significant influence through puppet Nawabs, the Company saw an opportunity to solidify its control.Immediately after Mir Jafar’s demise, his son, Najm-ud-Daulah, was installed as the new Nawab. However, the Company wasted no time in imposing severe conditions. He was compelled to sign a treaty with Robert Clive, which effectively stripped him of real power. Crucially, he had to disband most of his army and transfer the ‘Nizamat’ powers (which encompassed general administration and criminal justice) to a Deputy Nawab appointed by the British. This Deputy Nawab, chosen by the Company, could not be dismissed by the Nawab himself, further eroding his authority.While the Nawab was granted an allowance, it was later reduced, making him entirely dependent on the Company for financial support and military protection. This arrangement, often referred to as the “Dual Government” or “Dual System” by Robert Clive, allowed the East India Company to exercise the Diwani (revenue collection) and control the Nizamat (administrative and judicial functions) without directly bearing the responsibilities of governance. The façade of the Nawab’s rule remained, but the real power, including the right to collect taxes and administer justice, now firmly rested with the Company, laying the groundwork for British colonial rule in India.

Question 4.
With reference to the establishment of Dual Government in Bengal (1765-72) answer the following:

(a) Why was the government introduced in Bengal by Robert Clive referred to as ‘Dual Government’?
(b) What were the advantages and disadvantages of this system for the Company and the nawab respectively?
(c) The evils of the Dual Government led to the collapse of the administration and the economy. Explain.
Answer:
(a)Robert Clive’s ‘Dual Government’ in Bengal (1765-1772) was a system where the British East India Company controlled revenue collection (Diwani), giving them financial power, while the Nawab of Bengal nominally retained administrative and criminal justice (Nizamat). However, the Nawab’s lack of funds made him dependent on the Company, effectively making him a puppet. This arrangement gave the Company power without direct accountability, and the Nawab responsibility without real authority, resulting in a fractured and inefficient administration.

(b)The Dual Government in Bengal offered starkly contrasting outcomes for the British East India Company and the Nawab.

For the Company:

• Advantages: It gained direct control over Bengal’s vast revenues (Diwani) without the burden or expense of administering the region. This meant immense financial resources for trade and military expansion, effectively providing power without responsibility.
• Disadvantages: While highly advantageous initially, the resulting administrative chaos and widespread corruption eventually led to criticism and pressure for its abolition.

For the Nawab:

• Advantages: There were none.
• Disadvantages: He was stripped of all real power and financial means, becoming a mere figurehead (Nizamat). This rendered him incapable of maintaining law and order, administering justice, or managing the state, leading to a complete collapse of governance and immense suffering for the people of Bengal.

(c)The British East India Company seized financial and military power (Diwani), leaving the Nawab with only administrative duties (Nizamat) but no funds. This imbalance led to a breakdown of accountability, rampant corruption, and lawlessness. Economically, Bengal was devastated by excessive taxes, forced displacement of farmers, exploited artisans, and disrupted trade. The Company’s rigid policies worsened the horrific Famine of 1770, causing millions of deaths. In essence, this system combined British greed with a powerless local government, leading to economic ruin and a severe humanitarian catastrophe.

G  Picture Study.

This picture portrays a momentous event in 1765, involving a British Governor and a Mughal emperor wherein the Mughal emperor is conveying the grant of the Diwani to the governor.

1)Identify the Mughal emperor and the British governor
Ans :In 1765, Mughal Emperor Shah Alam II granted the Diwani of Bengal, Bihar, and Orissa to Robert Clive, the British Governor. This effectively transferred the right to collect revenue in these prosperous regions to the British East India Company, a key moment that solidified British power and laid the groundwork for their colonial rule in India.

2)What is the significance of this grant of the Diwani?
Ans. The 1765 grant of Diwani was a turning point for India, as it handed over the rights to collect revenue and administer justice in Bengal, Bihar, and Orissa from the Mughal Emperor to the British East India Company. This significantly boosted the Company’s finances, giving it direct access to vast revenues for its activities and growth, and reducing its dependence on British imports. It also changed the Company’s role from a trading entity to a significant political and territorial force, essentially marking the beginning of British colonial rule. While it greatly undermined Mughal authority, this change had severe consequences for Indians, leading to intense economic exploitation and playing a part in the catastrophic Bengal Famine of 1770.

1)Give a brief account of the battle that preceded this event. When did it take place?
Ans. The 1764 Battle of Buxar, where British forces under Major Hector Munro defeated the combined Indian armies of Mir Qasim, Shuja-ud-Daulah, and Shah Alam II, directly led to the 1765 Diwani grant. This decisive victory solidified British dominance in Bengal, paving the way for their revenue collection rights.

2)What is the importance of this battle?
Ans. The Battle of Buxar (1764) was pivotal as it solidified the British East India Company’s military and political supremacy in Bengal. Unlike Plassey, it was a decisive victory against a united Indian force. This win directly led to the British acquiring Diwani rights, granting them control over vast revenues and effectively laying the groundwork for their empire in India.

Additional Questions

Expansion of British Power in India
EXERCISES
A. Fill the in the blanks:

1. The five centres of Maratha power were:

Ans: 

• The Sindhias of Gwalior
• The Holkars of Indore
• The Bhonsle family of Nagpur
• The Gaekwad family of Baroda
• The Peshwa of Poona (Pune)

2. The Governors-General during the First and Second Anglo- Maratha Wars were_________, respectively.

Ans : Warren Hastings and Lord Wellesley

3. The Second Anglo-Maratha War was a severe blow to the ___________.

Ans : Sindhia and Bhonsle of the Marathas

4. __________ adopted three methods to make the British the paramount power in India.

Ans : Lord Dalhousie

5. Jhansi was annexed by Dalhousie on the basis of the __________.

Ans : Doctrine of Lapse

6. Dalhousie annexed Awadh on the grounds of ___________.

Ans : Maladministration or Misgovernment

B. Match the following:

Answer:

C. Choose the correct answer:

1. The First Anglo-Maratha War was fought during the Governor-Generalship of Lord Cornwallis/Lord Wellesley/ Warren Hastings.
Ans : The First Anglo-Maratha War was fought during the Governor- Generalship of Warren Hastings.

2. The Maratha chiefs were united under the leadership of Nana Phadnavis/Baji Rao II/Madhav Rao II during the First Anglo-Maratha War.
Ans : The Maratha chiefs were united under the leadership of Nana Phadnavis during the First Anglo-Maratha War.

3. After the Third Anglo-Maratha War the British placed a descendant of Shivaji on the throne of Nagpur/Satara/Jhansi.
Ans : After the Third Anglo-Maratha War the British placed a descendant of Shivaji on the throne of Satara.

4. Punjab was annexed by Lord Minto/Lord Dalhousie/Lord Wellesley in 1849.
Ans : Punjab was annexed by Lord Dalhousie in 1849.

5. The widespread resentment against annexations expressed itself in the Revolt of 1849/1861/1857.
Ans : The widespread resentment against annexations expressed itself in the Revolt of 1857

D. State whether the following are true or false:

1. After Hyder Ali’s death, his son Tipu Sultan continued the Anglo-Maratha Wars.
Ans : True

2. The Subsidiary Alliance system was used by the British to bring Indian rulers under British control without any war.
Ans : True

3. The Subsidiary Alliance proved very advantageous for the Indians.
Ans : False

Correct : The Subsidiary Alliance proved very advantageous for the British.

4. The adopted son of Peshwa Baji Rao II was denied the pension that his father used to get from the British.
Ans : True

5. By 1856, the English East India Company had brought the whole of India under its control.
Ans : True

C. Choose the correct answer:

1. The First Anglo-Maratha War was fought during the Governor-Generalship of Lord Cornwallis/Lord Wellesley/ Warren Hastings.
Ans : The First Anglo-Maratha War was fought during the Governor- Generalship of Warren Hastings.

2. The Maratha chiefs were united under the leadership of Nana Phadnavis/Baji Rao II/Madhav Rao II during the First Anglo-Maratha War.
Ans : The Maratha chiefs were united under the leadership of Nana Phadnavis during the First Anglo-Maratha War.

3. After the Third Anglo-Maratha War the British placed a descendant of Shivaji on the throne of Nagpur/Satara/Jhansi.
Ans : After the Third Anglo-Maratha War the British placed a descendant of Shivaji on the throne of Satara.

4. Punjab was annexed by Lord Minto/Lord Dalhousie/Lord Wellesley in 1849.
Ans : Punjab was annexed by Lord Dalhousie in 1849.

5. The widespread resentment against annexations expressed itself in the Revolt of 1849/1861/1857.
Ans : The widespread resentment against annexations expressed itself in the Revolt of 1857

D. State whether the following are true or false:

1. After Hyder Ali’s death, his son Tipu Sultan continued the Anglo-Maratha Wars.
Ans : True

2. The Subsidiary Alliance system was used by the British to bring Indian rulers under British control without any war.
Ans : True

3. The Subsidiary Alliance proved very advantageous for the Indians.
Ans : False

Correct : The Subsidiary Alliance proved very advantageous for the British.

4. The adopted son of Peshwa Baji Rao II was denied the pension that his father used to get from the British.
Ans : True

5. By 1856, the English East India Company had brought the whole of India under its control.
Ans : True

E. Answer the following questions in one or two words/ sentences:

Question 1.
What was the main objective of the Subsidiary Alliance system?
Answer:
The Subsidiary Alliance system primarily aimed to secure British dominance in India. It achieved this by extending British control over Indian states without direct annexation, thereby expanding influence and funding a substantial British army through contributions from Indian rulers.               ‘

Question 2.
What happened when the administration of a subsidiary state collapsed?
Answer:
When the administration of a subsidiary state collapsed, the British East India Company would usually intervene directly. This often meant annexing the state, taking over its governance, and integrating it into British India. The rulers would be pensioned off or exiled, and the Company would assume control of the state’s resources and territories. This process was a key method of expanding British dominion in India.

Question 3.
Why did Peshwa Baji Rao II sign the Subsidiary Alliance?
Answer:
Peshwa Baji Rao II signed the Subsidiary Alliance primarily due to his weak position after being defeated by Holkar in 1802. Seeking protection and restoration to his throne, he accepted British military assistance, which came with the condition of accepting the Subsidiary Alliance. This agreement essentially surrendered his sovereignty and placed the Maratha confederacy under British control.

Question 4.
Why was Wellesley recalled from India during the Second Anglo-Maratha War?
Answer:
Lord Wellesley was recalled from India during the Second Anglo-Maratha War primarily due to the immense financial strain his expansionist policies, including the wars and the subsidiary alliance system, placed on the British East India Company. The Company’s directors in England were alarmed by the escalating debt and the cost of his aggressive campaigns. They sought a more financially prudent and less interventionist approach to governing India.

Question 5.
How did the Subsidiary Alliance impact the
(a) economy
(b) administration in Awadh?
Answer:
The Subsidiary Alliance profoundly damaged Awadh’s economy and administration.

(a) Economy: Awadh’s treasury was drained by the substantial annual payments to the British, forcing higher taxes on peasants and contributing to widespread poverty. British economic interests were prioritized, often at the expense of Awadh’s own trade.

(b) Administration: The British Resident’s pervasive influence eroded the Nawab’s power, effectively seizing control of state governance. This loss of autonomy bred administrative inefficiency and corruption; British protection eliminated the Nawab’s motivation to improve rule or maintain a robust local military.

F. Answer the following questions briefly:

Question 1.
With reference to the Subsidiary Alliance System perfected by Lord Wellesley, answer the following:
(a) Why did Indian rulers sign the Subsidiary Alliance? State two important military terms and conditions imposed on the Indian rulers by this treaty.
(b) The Subsidiary Alliance proved very beneficial for the British. Explain.
(c) Discuss the disastrous effects of the Subsidiary Alliance on the Indian states.
Answer:(a) Indian rulers primarily entered the Subsidiary Alliance for defense against both internal uprisings and external aggression from other Indian states. The two key military stipulations were:

• Stationing of British Troops: Rulers had to host a permanent contingent of British soldiers within their domains.
• Funding the Force: The ruler was responsible for the cost of these British troops, either through direct payments or by ceding land.

(b) The British cleverly exploited this system by burdening Indian rulers with the cost of sizable Company armies and demanding territory as payment for this supposed “protection.” This move effectively neutralized European competitors and allowed Britain to dictate the foreign policy of these states, vastly increasing British influence and resources at India’s detriment.

(c) For subsidiary states, the impact was significant: they bore the expense of British troops, forfeited control over their foreign affairs, and were prohibited from employing other Europeans or forging alliances. In essence, they became subservient to British rule.

Question 2.
Dalhousie was a great expansionist and adopted a number of methods to build an all-India empire. In this context, answer the following questions:
(a) Mention the various methods adopted by Dalhousie and the territories annexed on the basis of these methods.
(b) Under what circumstances did a subordinate state automatically ‘lapse’ and pass into the hands of the British? How did the rulers react to this policy?
(c) Why did Nana Saheb become one of the leaders of the Revolt of 1857?
Answer:
(a)Lord Dalhousie, Governor-General of India (1848-1856), significantly expanded British control through various assertive policies. His “Doctrine of Lapse” led to the annexation of states like Satara, Jhansi, and Nagpur when rulers lacked natural male heirs, disregarding Indian traditions. He also annexed Awadh in 1856 on grounds of alleged misgovernment, an act widely seen as aggressive. While not his invention, he effectively used the Subsidiary Alliance to control states like Hyderabad. Direct conquests, such as Punjab in 1849 after the Second Anglo-Sikh War and Lower Burma in 1852, further expanded British territory. These aggressive policies, particularly the Doctrine of Lapse and the annexation of Awadh, fueled widespread resentment that contributed to the Indian Rebellion of 1857.

(b)A subordinate state would automatically ‘lapse’ and pass into British hands under the Doctrine of Lapse. This policy, primarily associated with Lord Dalhousie, stipulated that if a princely state under British paramountcy did not have a natural male heir, or if its ruler was deemed “incompetent,” it would not be allowed to adopt an heir. Instead, the state would be annexed by the British East India Company. The decision on the legitimacy of an adopted heir was entirely at the discretion of the British.

How the rulers reacted to this policy:

The rulers reacted with widespread anger, fear, and resentment. They viewed the Doctrine of Lapse as an illegitimate and arbitrary land grab by the British. It was seen as a direct infringement on their traditional rights of succession and a blatant disregard for Hindu law and custom, which permitted adoption.

This policy fueled deep distrust towards the British and contributed significantly to the growing discontent among Indian rulers and the populace. It was a major contributing factor to the uprising of 1857, as several states annexed under this doctrine (like Satara, Nagpur, and Jhansi, whose ruler Rani Lakshmibai famously fought against the British) became hotbeds of rebellion. They felt their sovereignty was under constant threat, leading to a strong desire to resist British expansion.

(c)Nana Saheb’s leadership in the 1857 Revolt stemmed from the British cessation of his pension. As the adopted heir of Peshwa Baji Rao II, he expected to inherit the allowance. However, Lord Dalhousie’s Doctrine of Lapse denied this right, deeply insulting Nana Saheb and igniting his decision to lead the rebellion in Kanpur.

Question 3.
With reference to the annexation of Awadh discuss:
(a) The effects of the Subsidiary Alliance on the administration in Awadh
(b)The political scenario in India by 1856
(c) Any three factors responsible for the success of the British over their Indian rivals
Answer:(a)The Subsidiary Alliance severely undermined Awadh’s governance. By disbanding the Nawab’s army and forcing reliance on British troops, it removed his motivation for good rule and protection of his people. This resulted in widespread misrule, corruption, and financial chaos, turning the Nawab into an unaccountable puppet and leading to Awadh’s eventual British annexation.

(b)By 1856, the British East India Company had largely consolidated its power across India. Through a combination of warfare (like the Anglo-Sikh Wars), treaties, and the controversial Doctrine of Lapse, most of the subcontinent was either directly under British rule or controlled through subsidiary alliances. This period saw the Company at its territorial peak, with very few independent states remaining. The annexation of Awadh itself, seen as a blatant act of aggression, further highlighted this pervasive British dominance and contributed to widespread resentment that would soon culminate in the 1857 Revolt.

(c)The British succeeded over Indian rivals due to:

1. Superior Military Discipline and Training: The British forces were highly disciplined, well-trained, and had access to advanced weaponry and tactics.
2. Effective Leadership and Strategy: British commanders often displayed better strategic planning and leadership, making cohesive decisions and adapting to various situations.
3. Internal Divisions Among Indian States: Indian states frequently lacked unity, often fighting among themselves or forming unstable alliances, which the British expertly exploited.

G Picture study:

1)Name the Governor General.
Ans. The Governor-General in the picture is Lord Dalhousie.He was crucial for aggressively expanding British control through policies like the Doctrine of Lapse, annexing states such as Jhansi and Awadh. He also laid the foundation for modern Indian infrastructure, introducing railways, telegraphs, and postal reforms, and initiating the Public Works Department. His actions significantly shaped British India and contributed to the causes of the 1857 Revolt.

2)What was the method adopted by him to subjugate the Indian territories ?
Ans. The individual depicted is Lord Dalhousie, Governor-General of India from 1848 to 1856. He notably expanded British control by employing the Doctrine of Lapse, which permitted the annexation of princely states when a ruler died without a natural male heir, disregarding adopted ones. States such as Satara, Sambalpur, Udaipur, Nagpur, and Jhansi were annexed under this policy. Additionally, he annexed Awadh, citing misgovernance. This aggressive expansion fueled considerable resentment, a significant factor in the outbreak of the 1857 Revolt.

3)Mention the terms and conditions under this method.
Ans. The image provided is a portrait of Lord Dalhousie, who was the Governor-General of India from 1848 to 1856. The “method” likely refers to his Doctrine of Lapse.

The terms and conditions under the Doctrine of Lapse were:

• No Adoption Recognition: Indian princely states whose rulers died without a natural male heir were not permitted to adopt an heir.
• Annexation to British Territory: In such cases, the state would automatically “lapse” or be annexed by the British East India Company.
• No Inheritable Pensions/Titles: The policy also extended to denying pensions and titles to adopted heirs of former rulers, as seen in the case of Nana Saheb.
• Distinction Between Dependent and Independent States: While the doctrine was primarily applied to “dependent states” created or supported by the British, its application sometimes blurred, leading to contentious annexations.

In essence, the Doctrine of Lapse was a British policy to expand their territorial control in India by annexing princely states where there was no natural male heir, often disregarding established Indian traditions of adoption.

4)Did this method have any advantage for the Indian rulers? Why ?
Ans: The system described is the Subsidiary Alliance, a policy adopted by the British in India. It allowed Indian rulers to retain their thrones under British oversight, receiving military protection and a share of revenue. While it minimized direct resistance and brought stability, it ultimately led to the loss of sovereign control over their territories for the Indian states.