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 were keen to annex the territory of Awadh primarily because of its
rich resources, which included fertile land, agricultural produce, and its strategic location. The British saw the annexation of Awadh as a means to gain better control over the region’s economic resources. While the annexation was also influenced by the desire to suppress local uprisings, particularly after the annexation in 1856, the primary motive was to control Awadh's resources, which could support the British administration and military efforts in the region.