British India
British India refers to the territories under the control of the British Empire on the Indian subcontinent from 1858 to 1947. Here is a comprehensive overview:
Historical Context
Administration
- Viceroy of India: The British monarch was represented by the Viceroy of India, who was the head of the Indian government and wielded extensive executive, legislative, and military powers.
- Council: The Viceroy was assisted by an Executive Council and an Imperial Legislative Council, which included Indian members from 1861.
- Provinces: British India was divided into provinces, each headed by a Governor or Lieutenant Governor, who had considerable autonomy in local administration.
Political and Social Changes
- Reforms: Over time, reforms were introduced to increase Indian participation in governance, most notably through the Indian Councils Act 1909 (Morley-Minto Reforms) and the Government of India Act 1919 (Montagu-Chelmsford Reforms).
- Nationalist Movement: The period saw the rise of Indian National Congress and other nationalist movements, leading to increased demands for self-rule.
- Economic Impact: The British introduced railways, telegraphs, and irrigation systems, but also imposed economic policies like the Drain of Wealth which were detrimental to the Indian economy.
End of British Rule
- World War II: The participation of India in World War II and the subsequent Quit India Movement intensified the push for independence.
- Partition: Post-war, the decision was made to partition India into India and Pakistan due to communal tensions and the demand for a separate Muslim state, resulting in the Partition of India in 1947.
- Independence: On August 15, 1947, India and Pakistan gained independence from British rule, marking the end of British India.
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