Give an account of the evolution of the relationship between the British power and the Indian princely states during the British rule, mentioning the key developments.

Answer: During the British rule, more than 562 princely states were spread over an area of about 7,12,508 square miles of Indian territory. Development of relations between the British Empire and the princely states can be described by following the phases:

  • Struggle for Equality with Indian States from a Position of Subjugation (1740–1765): With the capture of Arcot (1751), victory at the Battle of Plassey (1757) and the acquisition of the Diwani of Bengal, Bihar and Orissa (1765) the East India Company became an important political force.
  • Policy of Ring Fence (1765–1813): This policy was reflected in Warren Hastings' wars ....
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