British Involvement in India: 1714-1784

I. Introduction: English Liberty and Empire

A. Three Centers of 18^th c. English Empire

– 13 Colonies – Caribbean – East India Company

II. Growth of British Power in India

A. Decline of the Mughal Dynasty

B. Assertiveness of the East India Company

1. Anglo-French Cooperation and Rivalry

2. Seven Years’ War

a. Black Hole of Calcutta (June 1756)

b. Battle of Plassey (June 1757)

C. Pattern of Territorial Control

1. From Trade to the Collection of Taxes

2. Mismanagement and Famine (1769)

D. Reforming Company Rule

1. Governor-General Warren Hastings (1774-1784)

2. India Act (1784)

III. Conclusion: Setting the Stage for Future Changes

Key Terms

British East India Company

Board of Directors [of the EIC]

Nawabs and Nabobs

Black Hole of Calcutta

Battle of Plassey

India Act

Governor-General and Supreme Council

Warren Hastings

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