British Imperialism in India

Overview  The British East India Company had established trading rights in India during the early 1600s. By the mid 1800s, with the decline of the Mughal empire and the defeat of French rivals, the company controlled 3/5 of India.

British East India Co.  Though this was a commercial venture with the company’s prime purpose to make money in global trade, it became involved in governing to create the stability necessary for trade. The company had its own army of Indian soldiers, called Sepoys.

Sepoy Mutiny  In 1857, tensions rose. The British had angered the Sepoys by demanding that soldiers follow rules that were against their religious beliefs. The Sepoy Mutiny or Sepoy Rebellion, called for Hindus and Muslims to unite against the British.

Revolt Crushed  The British crushed their revolt and this incident left bitter feelings against the British. In 1858, Parliament ended the rule of the East India Company and the British government took direct command of India.

British Rule in India  Hoping to quell further unrest the British government spent vast amounts of money on India’s economic development.

Ethnocentrism  British colonial official continued a policy of discrimination against Indians, and forced them to change their ancient ways, often with tragic results.

INC 1885  Indian leaders formed the Indian National Congress in This organization would lead India in the long struggle for independence. Independence would eventually come but at the beginning of the 1900’s Britain still held India firmly in its grasp.

Analyze Documents  Evaluate the impact of imperialism in India from both the perspective of the Britain/colonial power and India/colonized people.

Effects of British Rule Positive Effects: --New Roads and RRs link all parts of India --Telegraph and postal systems unite people --Irrigation systems improve farming --New laws mean better justice for all classes --British schools offer a Western education --Customs that violate human rights are ended (caste system) Positive Effects: --New Roads and RRs link all parts of India --Telegraph and postal systems unite people --Irrigation systems improve farming --New laws mean better justice for all classes --British schools offer a Western education --Customs that violate human rights are ended (caste system) Negative Effects: ---Indian natural resources go to Britain --British made goods replace local goods --Farmers grow cash crops rather than food crops, Indians go hungry, many die --Indians were treated as inferiors --Traditional culture was replaced by Western culture