The British Raj: Impact on Modern India

Introduction

• Raj: Hindi word for rule
• British Raj: British rule of India, lasting approximately 90 years
• Key in India's modern development: infrastructure and government unification
• Influences on modern India's characteristics and struggles

Early British Presence in India

• 15th Century: European nations competed for trade in the East
• 1599: Formation of British East India Company
• 1600: Queen grants charter to the company
• Competition with Portuguese for trade dominance
• Establishment of presence through military force, cities, and forts

Growth of the British East India Company

• 1720: Company accounted for 15% of English imports
• Economic boost aided the start of the Industrial Revolution
• By 1802: Almost complete trade monopoly in India
• Focused on modernization to benefit the company (postal services, electricity, railroads)
• Met with resistance from Indian people and soldiers

Transition to British Raj

• 1857: Rebellion led to the decline of the British East India Company
• 1858: Government of India Act transferred power to British Crown
• Queen Victoria became Empress of India
• Included provinces of direct rule and over 175 princely states

Cultural and Governmental Changes

• British Raj's Approach: More tolerant of Indian culture compared to the East India Company
• Preservation of Indian traditions while modernizing government
• Dual governance system: London and Calcutta
• Introduction of Legislative Council with local advisors
• Indian legislature was bicameral structure

Education and Infrastructure under British Raj

• Introduction of English-style education system, led by Thomas Macaulay
• Opening of about 200 universities by 1911
• Investments in infrastructure: canals, irrigation, and railways
• Focus on export crops, leading to famine and discontent

End of the British Raj

• World War II: India supported Allies but sought independence
• Quit India Movement led by Gandhi
• Protests, arrests, and eventual violent retaliation by British
• 1947: India gained independence, but faced civil war and religious disputes
• India retained British institutions like universities and democracy

Conclusion

• The British Raj left a lasting impact on India and the world
• India's cultural and religious diversity remains influenced by British rule

Further Exploration

• Captivating History Book Club: Explore more about the British Raj
• Book availability in various formats and a free mythology bundle e-book
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