Topic: Modern Indian history from about the middle of the eighteenth century until the present- significant events, personalities, issues.
1. In the aftermath of the third Carnatic War, the English reigned supreme over India as all their European rivals had been decisively eliminated. Analyse the reasons for the victory of English. (250 words)
Difficulty level: Easy.
Reference: Page 53-55 – A Brief History of Modern India by Rajiv Ahir (Spectrum Publishers)
Why the question:
The question is part of the static syllabus of General studies paper – 1 and mentioned as part of Mission-2022 Secure timetable.
Key Demand of the question:
To analyse the reasons for the victory of English over the European rivals in India.
Directive word:
Analyse – When asked to analyse, you must examine methodically the structure or nature of the topic by separating it into component parts and present them as a whole in a summary.
Structure of the answer:
Introduction:
Begin by giving context, as to how the third Carnatic paved way for the emergence of British Indian empire.
Body:
Draw a small map of pre-independent India showing the major centres of European powers in India.
In the first part, elaborate upon as to how among the European powers in India, French were the strongest as well as historical adversary of the English and tussle between them was witnessed over the three Carnatic wars.
Next, analyse the reasons as how the British were able to get better of their European Counter parts. Keep in mind as not make your just about Anglo-French Rivalry. This question is about English against all the European powers such as Portuguese, Danes, Dutch and the French.
Conclusion:
Sum up the answer, with the elimination of their European adversaries, the British now turned their attention to Indian Kings.
