British India Flashcards

Question

Carnatic wars, European wars

Answer 1

Carnatic Wars were a series of military conflicts in the mid-18th century in the Carnatic region of southern India. These wars were part of the larger struggle between the British and French East India Companies for dominance in India, and they were influenced by European conflicts such as the War of the Austrian Succession and the Seven Years’ War1. First Carnatic War (1746-1748) Background: This war was an extension of the War of the Austrian Succession in Europe. The British and French East India Companies, despite their parent countries being at war, initially maintained cordial relations in India1. Key Events: The French captured Madras (now Chennai) in 1746, but the war ended with the Treaty of Aix-la-Chapelle in 1748, which restored Madras to the British1. Second Carnatic War (1749-1754) Background: This conflict arose from a power struggle in the Carnatic region and Hyderabad. The British supported Muhammad Ali, while the French backed Chanda Sahib1. Key Events: Robert Clive’s capture of Arcot in 1751 was a significant British victory. The war ended with the Treaty of Pondicherry in 1754, which recognized Muhammad Ali as the Nawab of the Carnatic1. Third Carnatic War (1757-1763) Background: This war was part of the global Seven Years’ War. The British and French fought for control over Indian territories1. Key Events: The decisive Battle of Wandiwash in 1760 saw the British defeat the French, leading to the capture of Pondicherry in 17611. The war ended with the Treaty of Paris in 1763, which significantly reduced French influence in India1. Impact on the East India Company British Dominance: The Carnatic Wars established the British East India Company as the dominant European power in India, paving the way for British colonial rule2. French Decline: The French East India Company was confined to a few trading posts, ending their ambitions of an Indian empire2. These wars were crucial in shaping the colonial future of India, leading to the eventual establishment of British supremacy. The War of the Austrian Succession (1740–1748) was a major European conflict that also had significant repercussions in India, particularly involving the British and French East India Companies. War of the Austrian Succession This war began after the death of Emperor Charles VI, leading to a struggle over the succession of his daughter, Maria Theresa, to the Habsburg throne. The conflict involved many European powers, including Austria, Prussia, France, Britain, and Spain1. It was marked by several battles and shifting alliances, with the Treaty of Aix-la-Chapelle in 1748 eventually restoring the status quo but leaving many issues unresolved1. Impact on the East India Companies In India, the War of the Austrian Succession extended into what is known as the First Carnatic War (1746–1748). This was the Indian theater of the broader European conflict and the first of the Carnatic Wars between the British and French East India Companies2. British and French Rivalry: The British and French East India Companies, representing their respective nations, vied for control over trade and territory in India. The conflict began with a British naval attack on a French fleet in 17452. Key Battles: One notable event was the French capture of Madras (now Chennai) in 1746, which was later returned to the British as part of the peace settlement2. Outcome: The war ended with the Treaty of Aix-la-Chapelle, which restored captured territories to their original owners and maintained the status quo in India23. This period set the stage for further conflicts between the British and French in India, ultimately leading to British dominance in the region. Seven Years’ War Overview The Seven Years’ War was fought between major European powers, including Britain and France, and it extended to their colonies worldwide. In India, this conflict is often referred to as the Third Carnatic War1. Impact on the East India Companies British East India Company: The British East India Company, led by figures like Robert Clive, played a crucial role in the conflict. One of the most significant battles was the Battle of Plassey in 1757, where Clive’s forces defeated the Nawab of Bengal and his French allies2. This victory marked the beginning of British dominance in India. French East India Company: The French Compagnie des Indes struggled to maintain its foothold in India. Despite initial successes, the French were ultimately unable to match the British military and political strategies. The Treaty of Paris in 1763 ended the war, significantly reducing French influence in India3. Key Outcomes British Dominance: The British East India Company emerged as the dominant power in India, gaining control over Bengal and other key regions2.

Answer 2

The East India Company was involved in several proxy wars during its expansion in India. These conflicts often involved supporting local rulers or factions to further the company’s interests. Here are a few notable examples: Carnatic Wars The Carnatic Wars (1746-1763) were a series of military conflicts in the Carnatic region of southern India. These wars were part of the larger struggle between the British and French East India Companies for dominance in India. The British supported local rulers like Muhammad Ali, while the French backed Chanda Sahib and other rivals1. Battle of Plassey (1757) The Battle of Plassey is another example where the East India Company engaged in a proxy war. The company supported Mir Jafar against the Nawab of Bengal, Siraj-ud-Daulah. The victory at Plassey allowed the company to install Mir Jafar as a puppet ruler, significantly increasing its influence in Bengal2. Mysore Wars The Anglo-Mysore Wars (1767-1799) involved the East India Company in conflicts against the Kingdom of Mysore, led by Hyder Ali and later his son Tipu Sultan. The company often allied with the Marathas and the Nizam of Hyderabad to counter Mysore’s power3. Maratha Wars The Anglo-Maratha Wars (1775-1818) saw the East India Company supporting various factions within the Maratha Confederacy. These wars ultimately led to the company’s dominance over the Maratha territories and the consolidation of British power in India4. These proxy wars were instrumental in the East India Company’s strategy to expand its control over the Indian subcontinent by leveraging local conflicts and alliances. Would you like to explore more about a specific conflict or figure involved in these wars?

Answer 3

Cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, spices

Answer 4

in the spice Islands or india, trading wasn't as good ( the East didn't need British products) so they started giving out moneyyy

Answer 5

Key Points about Sepoys: Origins: Initially, sepoys were recruited from local communities in India to serve in the armies of the Mughal Empire and later the British East India Company1. Roles: They primarily served as infantrymen, armed with muskets and other weapons. Over time, they became a crucial part of the British military presence in India2.

Answer 6

Nawab Siraj-ud-Daulah: The conflict began due to tensions between the British East India Company and the Nawab of Bengal, Siraj-ud-Daulah. The Nawab was unhappy with the Company’s fortifications and their increasing influence in Bengal2. Black Hole of Calcutta: In 1756, Siraj-ud-Daulah captured Calcutta and allegedly imprisoned British soldiers and civilians in a small dungeon, leading to the infamous “Black Hole of Calcutta” incident2. Battle of Plassey Forces: Clive led a relatively small force of about 3,000 troops against the Nawab’s much larger army of around 50,0002. Strategy: Robert Clive’s victory was largely due to his strategic alliances and the defection of key figures in the Nawab’s camp, such as Mir Jafar2. Outcome: The battle lasted only a few hours and ended in a decisive victory for the British. This victory allowed the British East India Company to gain control over Bengal and marked the beginning of British dominance in India23. Aftermath and Legacy Governor of Bengal: Following his victory, Clive was appointed the Governor of Bengal. He implemented administrative reforms and expanded British influence1. Controversy: Clive’s tenure was not without controversy. He was later accused of corruption and mismanagement, particularly during the Great Bengal Famine of 17701. Robert Clive’s actions in Bengal were instrumental in establishing British colonial rule in India, setting the stage for nearly two centuries of British dominance. Key Events Defection of Mir Jafar: A crucial factor in the British victory was the defection of Mir Jafar, the commander-in-chief of the Nawab’s army, who had been bribed by the British Aftermath: Siraj-ud-Daulah was captured and executed, and Mir Jafar was installed as the new Nawab of Bengal, effectively a puppet ruler under British control1

Answer 7

This major Indian power gone, the munghal Emperor reduced to puppet

Answer 8

Imposed parliamentary control over the board of directors of the company, private company going public

Answer 9

Education and Training: Tipu received a comprehensive education, including military training from French officers employed by his father1. Conflicts with the East India Company Tipu Sultan’s reign was marked by a series of conflicts with the British East India Company, known as the Anglo-Mysore Wars. First and Second Anglo-Mysore Wars First War (1767-1769): Hyder Ali and Tipu Sultan successfully resisted British advances, forcing the British to sue for peace2. Second War (1780-1784): Tipu continued his father’s struggle, achieving notable victories such as the Battle of Pollilur2. The war ended with the Treaty of Mangalore, which restored the status quo1. Third Anglo-Mysore War (1789-1792) Conflict: The war began when Tipu attacked the British-allied state of Travancore2. Outcome: Despite initial successes, Tipu was forced to sign the Treaty of Seringapatam, ceding significant territory and paying a large indemnity2. Fourth Anglo-Mysore War (1798-1799) Final Conflict: The British, allied with the Marathas and the Nizam of Hyderabad, launched a massive offensive against Mysore2. Death: Tipu Sultan died defending his capital, Seringapatam, on May 4, 17991. His death marked the end of significant resistance to British expansion in southern India2. Legacy Innovations: Tipu Sultan was known for his administrative reforms, including a new coinage system and efforts to promote the silk industry1. Military Tactics: He was a pioneer in the use of rocket artillery, which he deployed effectively against British forces1. Cultural Impact: Despite his military focus, Tipu also supported various cultural and religious institutions, including Hindu temples2.

Answer 10

Napoleon Bonaparte, was a significant military and scientific expedition aimed at undermining British trade routes to India and establishing French influence in the region. Here are the key details: Objectives Strategic Goals: The primary aim was to disrupt British trade routes to India and establish a French colony in Egypt1. Scientific Mission: Napoleon also brought along a team of scientists, engineers, and scholars to study and document the region’s history, culture, and natural resources1.

Answer 11

The Maratha Wars were instrumental in establishing British supremacy in India. The defeat of the Marathas allowed the British East India Company to consolidate its control over large parts of the Indian subcontinent, paving the way for nearly a century of British colonial rule1.

Answer 12

The East India Company and “The White Man’s Burden” While Kipling’s poem was written after the peak of the British East India Company’s power, the sentiments it expresses were reflective of the attitudes that underpinned British colonial rule in India. Key Points: Imperialist Justification: The East India Company, which began as a trading entity, gradually took on administrative and military roles in India. The idea of the “white man’s burden” provided a moral justification for these actions, portraying British rule as a civilizing mission1. Cultural Impact: The British often viewed their role in India as one of bringing progress and enlightenment to what they considered a backward society. This perspective ignored and undermined the rich cultural and historical heritage of India1. Economic Exploitation: Despite the rhetoric of benevolence, the primary motive of the East India Company was economic gain. The exploitation of India’s resources and people was justified under the guise of bringing civilization and order1. Kipling’s Poem and Its Legacy Publication and Context: “The White Man’s Burden” was published in the context of the United States’ imperial ambitions in the Philippines following the Spanish-American War1. Kipling’s poem encouraged the U.S. to take up the mantle of empire, similar to Britain’s role in India.

Answer 13

The system divides Hindus into four main categories, or varnas: Brahmins: Priests and teachers, considered the highest caste. Kshatriyas: Warriors and rulers. Vaishyas: Traders and agriculturists. Shudras: Laborers and service providersBritish Colonial Rule: The British further entrenched the caste system by using it as a tool for administration and control. They conducted censuses that rigidly classified people by caste2.

Answer 14

The revenue of the EIC came mostly from Land revenue (taxes from territories they controlled) the rest a little bit from the opium, silk, cinamon...

Answer 15

Causes of the Rebellion Military Discontent: The immediate cause was the introduction of the new Enfield rifle, which required soldiers to bite off the ends of lubricated cartridges rumored to be greased with cow and pig fat, offending both Hindu and Muslim soldiers1. Economic Exploitation: The Company’s policies led to widespread economic hardship, including high taxes and the destruction of traditional industries1. Political Grievances: The Doctrine of Lapse, which allowed the Company to annex any princely state where the ruler did not have a direct heir, created significant resentment among Indian rulers1. Key Events Outbreak: The rebellion began on May 10, 1857, in Meerut, when Indian soldiers (sepoys) mutinied against their British officers1. Spread: The mutiny quickly spread to other parts of northern and central India, including Delhi, Kanpur, and Lucknow1. Major Battles: Significant battles included the Siege of Delhi, the Siege of Lucknow, and the massacre at Kanpur1. Consequences End of the East India Company: The rebellion led to the dissolution of the British East India Company. The Government of India Act 1858 transferred control of India from the Company to the British Crown, marking the beginning of the British Raj1. Reorganization: The British reorganized the Indian army, administration, and financial system to prevent future rebellions. They also adopted a more cautious approach to social and religious reforms1. Legacy The Indian Rebellion of 1857 was a significant turning point in Indian history. It highlighted the deep-seated grievances against British rule and set the stage for the subsequent struggle for independence1.