For how many years india was under british rule?

General
1

for how many years india was under british rule?

2

For how many years was India under British rule?

Answer:
India was under British rule for a significant period, spanning from the mid-18th century to the mid-20th century. The British presence in India began with the establishment of the British East India Company and transitioned into direct rule by the British Crown.

Detailed Timeline:

  1. Establishment of the British East India Company (1600): The British East India Company was granted a royal charter by Queen Elizabeth I in 1600, allowing it to trade in the Indian Ocean region, with its initial focus on the spice trade.

  2. Battle of Plassey (1757):

    • Marked a pivotal moment in British involvement in India when Robert Clive defeated the Nawab of Bengal, Siraj-ud-Daulah.
    • This victory laid the foundation for British political control in India.

  3. British Control Expansion (1757 - 1858):

    • The East India Company gradually expanded its control over large parts of India through wars, treaties, and alliances.
    • Major events include the suppression of the Marathas and the annexation of various princely states.

  4. Indian Rebellion of 1857-58:

    • Also known as the Sepoy Mutiny or the First War of Indian Independence.
    • A widespread but ultimately unsuccessful revolt against the East India Company’s rule.

  5. Establishment of British Raj (1858):

    • Following the rebellion, the British Crown took over direct control from the East India Company.
    • The Government of India Act 1858 marked the beginning of the British Raj.
    • Queen Victoria was proclaimed Empress of India in 1876.

  6. Independence and Partition (1947):

    • After decades of nationalist movements and struggles led by figures such as Mahatma Gandhi, Jawaharlal Nehru, and others, India gained independence.
    • On August 15, 1947, British India was partitioned into two independent dominions: India and Pakistan.

Total Duration:

Considering the key dates:

  • From the Battle of Plassey in 1757 to Indian independence in 1947, India was under British control for approximately 190 years.
  • More specifically under direct British Crown rule from 1858 to 1947, it amounts to 89 years.

Final Answer:
India was under British rule for approximately 190 years from 1757, and more directly under the British Crown for about 89 years from 1858 to 1947.