Question

List at least 6 reasons why it was fairly easy for the British to take over India.

a) Superior military technology
b) Divide and rule tactics
c) Local support from Indian rulers
d) Economic exploitation
e) Geographic size and diversity
f) Political fragmentation

Answer 1

The British conquest of India was facilitated by superior military technology, divide and rule tactics, local alliances, economic exploitation, geographical diversity, and political fragmentation which prevented a unified resistance.

Step-by-step explanation:

It was fairly easy for the British to take over India for several reasons:

• Superior military technology: The British used advanced weaponry that often outmatched the Indian states.
• Divide and rule tactics: The British exploited the diverse cultures and languages of India, which led to disunity and weakened resistance against their rule.
• Local support from Indian rulers: Some Indian princes allied with the British, trading local sovereignty for access to international markets and military support.
• Economic exploitation: By inserting themselves in the economically fragmenting Mughal Empire, the British East India Company established a strong economic foothold.
• Geographic size and diversity: India's vast land and varied societies made it difficult to organize a united front against the British.
• Political fragmentation: The decline of the Mughal Empire resulted in fragmented states, easing British efforts to impose control through alliances and direct rule.

These factors, among others, allowed the British to establish dominance in India, culminating in direct British rule after the Indian Rebellion of 1857.