All questions of Expansion of British Power for SSC CGL Exam

Portugal had a monopoly of the highly profitable Eastern trade for nearly a century, establishing trading settlements in various locations in India, such as Cochin, Goa, Diu, and Daman.

Formation of the Dutch East India Company
The Dutch East India Company, known as the Vereenigde Oostindische Compagnie (VOC), was officially established in 1602. This company played a crucial role in Dutch trade and colonial activities during the Age of Exploration.
Key Points about the Formation:
- Establishment Year:
- The VOC was formed in 1602 to consolidate various trading companies in the Netherlands, allowing for a more organized and powerful approach to trade in the East Indies.
- Purpose:
- The main purpose of the VOC was to monopolize the spice trade and expand Dutch influence in Asia, particularly in the Indonesian archipelago.
- Chartered Company:
- The Dutch government granted the VOC a charter that allowed it to conduct trade, maintain armies, and govern territories, making it one of the first multinational corporations.
- Impact on Trade:
- The VOC significantly impacted global trade routes, establishing a trade network that included spices, textiles, and other commodities.
- Legacy:
- The success of the VOC marked the rise of Dutch colonial power and laid the foundations for future European colonial enterprises in Asia.
In conclusion, the correct answer is option 'B' because the Dutch East India Company was officially formed in 1602, marking a significant development in the history of global trade and colonialism.

Introduction to British Political Influence in India
The Battle of Plassey, fought on June 23, 1757, is widely regarded as the event that marked the beginning of British political control over India. This decisive battle set the stage for the establishment of British dominance in the Indian subcontinent.
Background of the Battle
- The battle took place between the British East India Company and the Nawab of Bengal, Siraj-ud-Daula.
- The conflict arose due to rising tensions over trade and territorial disputes in Bengal.
Key Players
- British East India Company: Under the leadership of Robert Clive, the company sought to consolidate its power in India.
- Nawab of Bengal: Siraj-ud-Daula was a young ruler who opposed British expansion and sought to curb their influence.
Outcome of the Battle
- The British victory at Plassey was achieved through a combination of military strategy and political intrigue, including the betrayal of key Indian allies.
- The defeat of Siraj-ud-Daula led to a significant power shift in favor of the British.
Consequences of the Battle
- The British East India Company gained control over Bengal, one of the richest provinces in India, marking the start of British colonial rule.
- This victory paved the way for further expansion and control over the Indian subcontinent, eventually leading to the establishment of British India.
Conclusion
The Battle of Plassey was not just a military conflict; it was a turning point that facilitated the British takeover of India, setting the foundation for over a century of colonial rule.

Lord Hastings introduced the policy of "paramountcy," claiming the authority to annex or threaten to annex any Indian kingdom during his tenure as Governor-General.

Lord Dalhousie
Lord Dalhousie, the British Governor-General, is associated with the annexation of the Punjab in 1849. This significant event took place during his tenure in India. Below are some key points explaining his role in the annexation:

Annexation of the Punjab
- Lord Dalhousie played a crucial role in the annexation of the Punjab in 1849.
- The Punjab region was a powerful Sikh kingdom ruled by Maharaja Ranjit Singh until his death in 1839, after which the kingdom faced internal strife and instability.
- The British took advantage of the chaos and the Second Anglo-Sikh War broke out in 1848, resulting in the defeat of the Sikh forces.

Doctrine of Lapse
- Lord Dalhousie also implemented the Doctrine of Lapse policy during his tenure, which allowed the British to annex princely states if they lacked a natural heir.
- This policy led to the annexation of several Indian states, including Satara, Jhansi, and Nagpur.

Significance of Annexation
- The annexation of the Punjab was a significant event in British India as it further expanded British territories and consolidated their power in the region.
- It also marked the end of Sikh rule in the Punjab and paved the way for direct British administration in the region.
In conclusion, Lord Dalhousie's tenure as Governor-General was marked by significant territorial expansions and policy implementations, including the annexation of the Punjab in 1849, which played a crucial role in shaping British India.