Roadmap for Answer Writing 1. Introduction Context: Briefly introduce the East India Company (EIC), founded in 1600, and its rise to power in India. Thesis Statement: Present the question of whether the EIC’s success was primarily due to chance or deliberate strategy, indicating ...
Indian Independence movement began to take shape in its nascent form during the early part of the 18th and 19th centuries before developing into a mass movement in the 20th century. Factors for rise of national sentiment and early manifestation of Indian Independence movement includes: Political disRead more
Indian Independence movement began to take shape in its nascent form during the early part of the 18th and 19th centuries before developing into a mass movement in the 20th century.
Factors for rise of national sentiment and early manifestation of Indian Independence movement includes:
- Political disintegration: British policies such as Doctrine of Lapse displaced the local rulers and disturbed political loyalties and alliances. This created distrust and disaffection towards the British.
- Social disharmony: The indiscriminate destruction of the Indian justice systems and perpetuating decay of religious systems led to destruction of social fabric.
- Economic distress: The agriculture productivity decreased and exploitative revenue and taxation policies of the colonisers impoverished the agriculturalists.
- Cultural alienation: English language was promoted in education and employment replacing local languages which led to loss of indigenous knowledge systems and cultural identities.
- Influential leaders: Leaders such as Raja Rammohun Roy, Maharani Laxmi Bai, Tantya Tope, etc. emerged on to the national scene to awaken the conscience of the Indian people.
- Inspiration from abroad: The French Revolution and European Revolutions of 1848, inspired generation of people to struggle for their rights. Also, the rise of Japan gave confidence to Indians.
Model Answer Introduction The East India Company (EIC), founded in 1600, emerged as the dominant European power in India. While some historians argue that the EIC's success was a result of deliberate strategy, others contend that it was largely accidental. This analysis explores both perspectives. ARead more
Model Answer
Introduction
The East India Company (EIC), founded in 1600, emerged as the dominant European power in India. While some historians argue that the EIC’s success was a result of deliberate strategy, others contend that it was largely accidental. This analysis explores both perspectives.
Accidental Factors
1. Divisions Among Indian States
The EIC capitalized on the existing conflicts among various Indian states.
2. Technological Advancements
The EIC had access to superior military technology that provided a significant advantage in conflicts.
3. Unpredictable Events
The EIC took advantage of unforeseen circumstances, particularly the decline of the Mughal Empire.
4. Shift from Trade to Control
The gradual transition from trade to territorial control was not part of the EIC’s original strategy but evolved due to changing circumstances, including increased British governmental intervention.
Deliberate Factors
1. Shrewd Diplomacy
The EIC employed strategic diplomacy to form alliances with local rulers, enhancing its influence.
2. Economic Exploitation
The EIC had a clear economic agenda, exploiting Indian resources to generate wealth.
3. Organizational Structure
The EIC’s effective organizational structure allowed it to manage operations efficiently.
4. Military Strategies
The EIC implemented calculated military strategies, including recruiting sepoys and establishing fortified trading posts.
Conclusion
The success of the East India Company in India was influenced by both deliberate actions and accidental circumstances. While the EIC had clear intentions for expansion, its path to dominance was shaped by a complex interplay of strategic planning and unforeseen events. This duality highlights the intricate dynamics of colonial expansion in India.
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