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Subsidiary Alliance
The subsidiary alliance was a system introduced by Lord Wellesley, the Governor-General of India, in the late 18th century as a method of controlling the Indian princely states. This policy aimed to establish British influence over these states without directly annexing them.

Key Points:
- Definition: A subsidiary alliance is a treaty between the British East India Company and an Indian princely state in which the latter agreed to seek the Company's protection and not enter into any alliance with any other power.
- Terms: Under the subsidiary alliance, the princely state was required to maintain a British garrison within its territory and pay for its maintenance. In return, the British promised to protect the state from external threats.
- Limitations: Despite appearing as a protection treaty, the subsidiary alliance was often used by the British to control the internal affairs of the princely states. The states had to follow British advice on matters such as foreign relations and administration.
- Impact: The subsidiary alliance system weakened the autonomy of the princely states and paved the way for British dominance in India. It also helped the British in expanding their control over Indian territories without outright annexation.
- Examples: Some prominent princely states that entered into subsidiary alliances with the British include Hyderabad, Mysore, and Awadh. These states eventually lost their sovereignty and became part of the British Indian Empire.
In conclusion, the subsidiary alliance was a significant tool used by the British East India Company to extend its influence and control over the Indian princely states, ultimately leading to the consolidation of British power in India.