Question

What could be the reasons for the confidence of the British rulers about their position in India before May 1857?

Answer 1

The reasons for the confidence of the British rulers about their position in India before May, 1857 were as described below:

• There were several riots, rebellion and revolts which occurred before May, 1857. But all these were localized and were suppressed by the British then and there.
• In the mid 18th century, the powers of Nawabs, rajas, zamindars etc. were eroded. The freedom of the Indian rulers was reduced, their armed forces were disbanded, and their revenue and territories were taken by stages.
• The Mughal Emperor had lost its control over the provinces. The traditional rulers fought among themselves and could not present a united front against a powerful foreign rule.
• Residents had been stationed in many courts by the British as their representatives. These residents kept informing the governors about the important developments in every kingdom.
• Indian princes and chiefs whom the British had allowed to continue used to side with the British during revolts before May, 1857.