1. India: Before and After Imperialism

2. Before Imperialism Hindu Influence
Caste system-everyone has a role to play in society
Cyclical pattern of life, death, and rebirth (Major aspect of Hindu religion)
Polytheistic

3. Hindu Caste System India united by Hindu social order
Villages are separated into “neighborhoods” by caste
High caste lives near center of town, close to temple
Untouchables lived on outskirts of town, considered dirty to touch.

4. Indian Life Loyal to family first, then caste
Marriages arranged on basis of what is best for the family
Vegetarians-
Food is a source of spiritual purity
Sit cross-legged on floor
Only eat with right hand, left hand is impure

5. British Influence in India
Because of the Industrial Revolution, sea routes replace overland routes
1600- East India Company (Britain) is formed, which built trading posts and forts in India
French East India Company does the same, and the French challenge the British for control
1757-Battle of Plassey- East India Co. defeats the French East India Co. by using British and Indian soldiers

6. Benefits of British Rule
Education reforms- new universities and schools
Irrigation projects
Reformed police and judicial system
Encouraged cotton industry
Built railroads, canals, and roads across the country

7. Harmful Effects of British Rule
Indians begin to show unrest
British discriminate against the natives
Changed ancient Indian ways
Grow cotton, not wheat
Led to the starvation and death of millions of Indians.

8. The Sepoy Rebellion-May 1857
Sepoy- Indian soldier in the British Army
British attempt to impose European and Christian customs
Rumor begins that British bullets are greased with the fat of cows and pigs
Hindus see cow as sacred, and Muslims do not touch pork. Both religious groups are violated.
Sepoys revolt for 1 year
Many British are killed, and kill thousands of Indians in return
1858-Parliament removes East India Company, and send in viceroy to rule for monarch

9. Results of Sepoy Rebellion
General Unhappiness with British rule
Indians outraged by food shortages and other problems
Indians want self-rule
1885-Indian National Congress lobbied for democracy and equality