The Complexities of Indirect Rule

This chapter explores the evolving strategies of the East India Company in employing indirect rule over India, highlighting the shift from financial motives to political domination. It examines the intricate relationships forged with local powers, the oscillation of interventionist policies, and the challenges faced by British officials in navigating India's diverse political landscape. Additionally, the discussion emphasizes the nuanced implications of this governance model, reframing it as a foundational aspect of British colonial strategies rather than a simple narrative of imperial dominance.