I. India From Mughal Empire to British Colony (16th Century to c. 1911)

A. Tensions in the Mughal Empire and the Onset of British Rule

1. Contours of Mughal Rule

   • Centralized governance with a complex hierarchy.

   • Significant Emperors:

     • Akbar: Advocated for religious tolerance and syncretism.

     • Aurangzeb: Expanded the empire but imposed stricter Islamic laws, creating divisions.

2. Commercialization and Fragmentation

   • Agricultural commercialization led to increased revenue but social tensions.

   • Emergence of regional powers weakened central authority.

3. The European Presence

   • Europeans arrived primarily for trade; the British East India Company began consolidating power in the 17th century.

B. British East India Company Rule (1757 Onwards)

1. Battle of Plassey (1757)

   • Established Company control over Bengal, transitioning from trade to territorial governance.

C. The Great Revolt (1857-58) and its Consequences

1. Causes of the Revolt

   • Socio-economic, political, and religious grievances; dissatisfaction among sepoys due to cultural insensitivity.

2. From Company Rule to Crown Rule

   • Governance transferred to the British Crown via the Government of India Act 1858.

3. Reordering India

   • British utilized formal ceremonies (durbars) involving Indian elites to legitimize rule.

   • Increased reliance on caste and religion for administrative policies.

D. The Emergence of National Identity

1. British Educational Policies

   • Western education led to the rise of politically aware Indian elites.

2. Indian National Congress (1885)

   • Navigated between demands of moderates for reform and extremists for direct action.

3. Extremism and Popular Nationalism

   • Rise of extremist factions advocating direct action against colonial rule.

4. Partition of Bengal and the Swadeshi Movement

   • The 1905 partition incited widespread protests; emphasis on self-reliance and indigenous goods.

II. Key Concepts and Keywords

• Mughals: Ruling dynasty known for contributions to art and culture.

• Akbar and Aurangzeb: Key emperors with differing governance policies.

• British East India Company: Transitioned from trade to a political entity.

• Great Revolt: Major uprising against British rule leading to Crown governance.

• Caste and Religion: Influential in society and British administration.

• Indian National Congress: Political party advocating for Indian governance participation.

• Swadeshi Movement: Promoted self-sufficiency through boycotts of British goods.

III. Review Questions

1. Structures of Rule in India (1700): Characterized by centralized authority with local governors and regional powers.

2. British Activities Evolution (1600-1757): Shift from trade focus to territorial expansion through military conquests.

3. India’s Global Economic Position: Key player in global trade, providing textiles and raw materials crucial to the British economy.

4. Main Features of Company and Crown Rule: Company Rule was exploitative; Crown Rule focused on reforms and infrastructure post-revolt.

5. Caste and Religion’s Role Post-1857: Complicated local governance and identities within communities.

6. Evolution of Indian Nationalism: Emerged from educated elites seeking representation and rights, shaping independence movement.

Definitions

• Imperialism: Policy of extending a country's power through colonization or military force.

• Nationalism: Pride and identity leading to a desire for self-governance and independence from colonial rule.