WHII: SOL 9d, e Imperialism in ME and India

Imperialism in India East India Company (EIC) exploited the diversity of the Indian subcontinent in order to further their control and claims in the region Cultural differences led to tension –British attempted to end certain Hindu practices such as sati, purdah, the caste system

Sepoy Rebellion Indian soldiers (sepoys) were forced to serve anywhere in the British empire- if they died outside India Hindus believed they would not be reincarnated GB guns were greased with pig/cow fat- Indians refused contact with either animal for religious reasons Indians killed many British citizens (men, women, and children) trying to force the British to leave The British responded by crushing the rebellion

Beginning of Division Sepoy rebellion left bad feelings and tension between India and GB for years to come Indians respond by creating nationalist organizations (Indian National Congress) that push peaceful resistance to end their imperial rule **Muslims and Hindus begin to divide on how to deal with GB

Imperialism in Middle East Muslim reforms (began in N. Africa) led to divisions in the Muslim region Ottomans faced many revolts from different ethnic groups wanting independence (Balkans, Greeks, Serbs, Romanians, Arabians, Lebanese, and Armenians) Nationalism caused tension and conflict among the various ethnic groups (connection to today!!!!) Ottoman Empire attempts to modernize, but it’s too little, too late

Middle East Turkey Revolts led by a group called the Young Turks, sought to reform and westernize Turkey (efforts halted by WWI) Armenia Ottomans brutally crushed nationalist revolts by committing genocide (deliberate attempt to destroy a particular group) against the Armenians, a Christian group in the eastern Ottoman Empire

Egypt Muhammad Ali brought reforms to Egypt (after Napoleon seized control in 1805) “Father of modern Egypt” **Suez Canal was built by Egypt, however they were unable to pay for its completion, sold shares to GB to finish the project- GB has a control of the Suez Canal (link to sea trade between Indian Ocean and Europe***)

Persia Attempted reforms as well, but again too late. Persia faced interest from GB and Russia (both wanted access to the Black Sea) Was forced to make concessions –special rights given to foreign powers to both GB and Russia