THE BRITISH TAKE OVER INDIA THE NEW IMPERIALISM

FACTORS DIVIDING INDIA  Language – many different languages (200) and traditions.  Religion – Hinduism and Islam two dominant religions.  Collapse of Mughal Empire – dozens of small states ruled by local leader, collapse made it easier to take advantage of & conquer.

BRITISH EAST INDIA COMPANY  BEIC had monopoly of trading posts in India since 1600s.  Expanded influence with decline of Mughals  India officially ruled by BEIC, but with little interruption until the 19 th century.  BEIC had its own army, led by British officers and sepoys (Indian soldiers).

SEPOY REBELLION, 1857

 Sepoys discovered that their British made rifle cartridges were sealed with beef and pork fat.  Soldiers had to bite off the seals to use them.  Muslims forbidden to eat pork, Hindus forbidden to eat beef.  Massacres throughout Northern and Central India  Took a year to regain control of the country.  “Brightest Jewel”: Eventually India put under control of the British crown: sent more troops and taxed Indians to pay costs, slowed “reforms” but continued to develop India for economic benefit

EFFECTS OF BRITISH RULE POSITIVE EFFECTSNEGATIVE EFFECTS Built railroads, telegraph linesIntroduction of inexpensive factory- made textiles ruined India’s hand- weaving industry Encouraged nomadic herders to settle into farming, cash crops Deforestation due to farming Medical improvements, better health care Followed cash-crop policies that led to famine b/c they were growing cotton and jute rather than food Peace and order to countrysidePopulation growth also strained food supply Revised legal system, postal service Eliminated slavery, some injustices of caste system, outlawed sati