UPSC Exam  >  UPSC Questions  >  Under what pretext did the British annex awad... Start Learning for Free
Under what pretext did the British annex awadh?
Most Upvoted Answer
Under what pretext did the British annex awadh?
Background of Awadh
Awadh, a prosperous region in northern India, was ruled by the Nawabs who had established a vibrant cultural and economic landscape. The British East India Company was keen on expanding its influence and control over India.
Pretext for Annexation
The British annexation of Awadh in 1856 was justified under several pretexts:
  • Mismanagement Allegations: The British claimed that the Nawab, Wajid Ali Shah, was incapable of governing effectively. They argued that the administration was corrupt and inefficient, which posed a threat to law and order.
  • Doctrine of Lapse: The British employed the Doctrine of Lapse, which stated that if a ruler died without a male heir, his state would be annexed. Although Wajid Ali Shah had a legitimate heir, the British disregarded this to facilitate annexation.
  • Strategic Interests: Awadh's strategic location made it crucial for British control over northern India. The annexation aimed to secure the region against potential uprisings and rival powers.
  • Military Presence: The British argued that maintaining a military presence was necessary due to the unrest in the area. This further legitimized their claim that direct control was essential for stability.

Consequences of Annexation
The annexation of Awadh led to significant political and social upheaval:
  • Resistance and Uprising: The British action sparked resentment among the local population, culminating in the Indian Rebellion of 1857.
  • Cultural Impact: The annexation disrupted the cultural and economic fabric established by the Nawabs, leading to a decline in local traditions.

In summary, the British annexed Awadh under the pretext of mismanagement, strategic interests, and the application of the Doctrine of Lapse, which ultimately led to significant resistance and historical consequences.
Explore Courses for UPSC exam

Top Courses for UPSC

Under what pretext did the British annex awadh?
Question Description
Under what pretext did the British annex awadh? for UPSC 2025 is part of UPSC preparation. The Question and answers have been prepared according to the UPSC exam syllabus. Information about Under what pretext did the British annex awadh? covers all topics & solutions for UPSC 2025 Exam. Find important definitions, questions, meanings, examples, exercises and tests below for Under what pretext did the British annex awadh?.
Solutions for Under what pretext did the British annex awadh? in English & in Hindi are available as part of our courses for UPSC. Download more important topics, notes, lectures and mock test series for UPSC Exam by signing up for free.
Here you can find the meaning of Under what pretext did the British annex awadh? defined & explained in the simplest way possible. Besides giving the explanation of Under what pretext did the British annex awadh?, a detailed solution for Under what pretext did the British annex awadh? has been provided alongside types of Under what pretext did the British annex awadh? theory, EduRev gives you an ample number of questions to practice Under what pretext did the British annex awadh? tests, examples and also practice UPSC tests.
Explore Courses for UPSC exam

Top Courses for UPSC

Explore Courses
Signup for Free!
Signup to see your scores go up within 7 days! Learn & Practice with 1000+ FREE Notes, Videos & Tests.
10M+ students study on EduRev