Colonial Expansion in India: Significance of Plassey and Buxar
Battles
1.
The Battle of Plassey
(1757) and the Battle of Buxar (1764) were pivotal events during the British
East India Company's expansion in India, marking significant turning points in
Indian history. Both these battles are essential topics for the GPSC (Gujarat
Public Service Commission) and UPSC (Union Public Service Commission) exams, as
they demonstrate the rise of British influence in India.
v Battle of Plassey (1757)
|
Context: The Battle of Plassey took
place between the forces of the British East India Company, led by Robert
Clive, and the Nawab of Bengal, Siraj-ud-Daulah. It was a culmination of
tensions between the British and the Nawab due to economic and political
reasons, including trade disputes and the Nawab's displeasure over the
British fortifications in Calcutta (now Kolkata). Events: In June 1757, the British
forces under Clive defeated the Nawab's army. The victory was achieved
through diplomatic maneuvering and securing the allegiance of Mir Jafar, a
commander in the Nawab's army. The betrayal by Mir Jafar
played a crucial role, leading to a decisive victory for the British East
India Company. Importance: The Battle of Plassey
established the British East India Company's control over Bengal. It paved the way for British
political supremacy in India and marked the beginning of their expansion in
the subcontinent. It allowed the British to gain
economic advantages and eventually led to the establishment of British colonial
rule in India. |
v Battle of Buxar (1764)
|
Context: ·
The Battle of Buxar was fought between the
British East India Company, led by Hector Munro, and the combined forces of
the Mughal Emperor Shah Alam II, the Nawab of Oudh Shuja-ud-Daula, and Mir
Qasim, the former Nawab of Bengal. ·
The primary cause was the dissatisfaction of
these Indian rulers with the British policies and their attempts to regain
power. Events: ·
In October 1764, the British forces decisively
defeated the coalition forces. ·
The battle lasted only a few hours, and the
superior military tactics and firepower of the British led to their victory. Importance: ·
The Battle of Plassey established the British
East India Company's control over Bengal. ·
It paved the way for British political supremacy
in India and marked the beginning of their expansion in the subcontinent. ·
It allowed the British to gain economic
advantages and eventually led to the establishment of British colonial rule
in India. |
Both battles marked
significant steps in the expansion of British power in India. Understanding
these events is crucial for GPSC and UPSC aspirants as they signify the
beginning of British colonial rule and its impact on the socio-political and
economic fabric of India.
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