Robert Clive was a British soldier and administrator who played an important role in establishing British rule in India. He died on November 22, 1774, in his home in London. The cause of his death was officially recorded as suicide by self-administered poison.

Early Life and Career

Robert Clive was born on September 29, 1725, in Styche, Shropshire, England. He joined the British East India Company as a clerk in 1743 and was later appointed as a military officer in Madras. He was instrumental in securing the British victory in the Battle of Plassey in 1757, which marked the beginning of British rule in India.

Later Life and Death

After his success in India, Clive returned to England and was elected to the British Parliament. However, he faced criticism and accusations of corruption and misconduct during his time in India, which led to several investigations and inquiries.

Clive suffered from depression and ill health in his later years and was deeply affected by the criticism he faced. On November 22, 1774, he committed suicide by taking a dose of laudanum, a type of opium-based medicine.

Conclusion

Robert Clive played a significant role in shaping British rule in India, but his legacy is also marred by accusations of corruption and misconduct. His suicide at the age of 49 highlights the mental and emotional toll of his experiences in India and the challenges he faced in his later life.

When he was appointed Governor General of Bengal , he was asked to remove corruption but he was himself cross examined in 1772 by the British parliament due to his vast wealth . Although he was acquitted he committed suicide in 1774 .