Lord Dalhousie's approach to constitutional and educational reforms reflected which of the following broader trends in British colonial policy in the mid-19th century?
- AThe gradual devolution of political power to Indian representatives
- BThe consolidation of imperial control through limited liberal reform
- CThe transition to complete self-government under the Charter Act of 1853
- DThe priority of missionary activities over administrative efficiency
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: (b) The consolidation of imperial control through limited liberal reform
Explanation
Lord Dalhousie (1848–1856) made limited liberal reforms but kept political power firmly in British hands, so his policy reflected the consolidation of imperial control through limited reform:
- the Charter Act of 1853 separated the Governor-General's legislative work from his executive work and opened the civil service to competition, but gave Indians little real share in power;
- Wood's Despatch (1854) planned a system of education from schools to universities;
- railways, the telegraph and the postal system tied India together, but also helped British control;
- he annexed many states by the Doctrine of Lapse and by war.