Question

Why were the British keen to annex the territory of Awadh? Choose the correct option from the following:

• A. To suppress the nationalist movement in Awadh.
• B. To get access to Awadh’s rich resources.
• C. To strengthen their control in the west in India.
• D. To enhance British military control in Central India.

Hint:

When studying the British annexation of Indian territories, remember that economic resources, especially fertile lands and agricultural output, were key factors influencing British expansion policies.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

The British primarily sought to annex Awadh due to its
abundant resources, encompassing fertile land, agricultural output, and its strategic position. Annexation was viewed as a method to enhance control over the region's economic assets. Although suppressing local unrest was a secondary consideration, especially post-1856 annexation, the foremost objective was to secure Awadh's resources to bolster British administrative and military operations in the area.