Question

Write an account of the Doctrine of Lapse.

Answer 1

Instructions:
Establish how annexation policies were used and explain the features of the Doctrine of lapse. Also, provide suitable examples.

Solution:
The British East India Company introduced certain annexation policies and expanded its territories in the Indian subcontinent.

• The Doctrine of Lapse introduced by Lord Dalhousie was one of the most significant annexation policies that the British introduced.
• This policy helped the Company annexe territories of rulers who didn’t leave behind a natural heir.
• As a result, Satara, Jhansi and Udaipur were annexed to the Company’s territories.