The origins of British rule in India
I can recall that the Mughal Empire initially had control over India but that the power of the East India Company expanded in the 18th and 19th centuries.
The origins of British rule in India
I can recall that the Mughal Empire initially had control over India but that the power of the East India Company expanded in the 18th and 19th centuries.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- Prior to the arrival of Britain, the Indian subcontinent was ruled by the Muslim Mughal Empire.
- Under the rule of Aurangzeb, the power of the Mughals decreased due to war and economic difficulties.
- In 1600 the East India Company was founded and was given a monopoly over trade in East Asia.
- In the 1757 Battle of Plassey, Robert Clive's East India Company gained control over India.
- In the 18th and 19th centuries the East India Company expanded its control along with government involvement.
Common misconception
The British were the only European power trying to gain control over India.
The British, French and Dutch were all attempting to gain a foothold in India and expand their influence there.
Keywords
Monopoly - exclusive control over a supply of or trade in a commodity or service
Sepoy - an Indian soldier serving in the British or another European order
Nawab - a native governor during the time of the Mughal Empire
Content guidance
- Depiction or discussion of discriminatory behaviour
- Depiction or discussion of sensitive content
- Depiction or discussion of violence or suffering
Supervision
Adult supervision recommended
Licence
This content is © Oak National Academy Limited (2024), licensed on Open Government Licence version 3.0 except where otherwise stated. See Oak's terms & conditions (Collection 2).
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