British Imperialism in India

British Expand Control over India East India Company Dominates all parts of Indian life Had its own army = Sepoys (Indian soldiers) Britain’s “Jewel in the Crown”—most valuable of British colonies—raw materials Indian countries weren’t allowed to compete

British trade increased after the built a railroad to India Positive and negative effects: Positive = railroads, roads, telephone, telegraph, dams, bridges, irrigation systems, colleges formed, literacy rates rose Negative = restricted Indian companies from competing, planting of cash crops caused famine

The Sepoy Mutiny Racism towards Indian (from British) Rumor started among Sepoy soldiers Said their bullets were greased in beef or pork fat Soldiers were Muslim or Hindu, why a conflict? Sepoys wouldn’t accept bullets, Sepoys jailed No unity between Muslims and Hindus British East India Company put down rebellion

After mutiny, British took direct control Part of country under direct control called Raj Mutiny increased the distrust between the British and the Indians Also increased the racism towards Indians

Nationalism Surfaces in India Indians began to want “western ways” Also pushed for modernization Indians were tired of being 2nd class citizens Indian National Congress & Muslim League formed—nationalism groups Conflicts continued