Question

Explain the system of subsidiary alliance.

Answer 1

Instructions:
The answer to this question must have the explanation of the terms and conditions of the subsidiary alliance system:

• The deployment of the subsidiary force
• The British resident
• States under subsidiary alliance

Solution:

• The state which accepted the subsidiary alliance was required to deploy a troop of the British army or a subsidiary force and cater for its expenses and other maintenance.
• In case the ruler was not able to pay for the subsidiary forces, he had to cede a part of his territory as a penalty.
• A British officer, known as the Resident, was stationed at the court of the ruler.
• The ruler was not authorized to take important decisions without the consent of the Resident.
• The territories of Awadh and Hyderabad were ceded under the subsidiary alliance system.