The British administration in Karnataka marked a significant period in the history of the region, marked by its integration into the Madras and Bombay Presidencies and the establishment of Mysore as a princely state. This article provides an in-depth exploration of these two critical aspects.
Integration into Madras and Bombay Presidencies
Background
The British East India Company gradually gained control over Karnataka following the decline of the Vijayanagara Empire and the fall of Tipu Sultan in the Fourth Anglo-Mysore War (1799).
The
territorial reorganization by the British resulted in portions of Karnataka being integrated into the administrative units of the Madras and Bombay Presidencies.Madras Presidency
Southern Karnataka:
The British annexed significant territories of Karnataka into the Madras Presidency, particularly the regions that were once part of the Carnatic.
Districts such as Mangalore, Udupi, and parts of Shimoga were directly administered under the Madras Presidency.
Administrative Framework: These regions were governed by the British through a district collector system, emphasizing law and order, revenue collection, and infrastructure development.
Impact:
Establishment of English education and the judiciary system.
Introduction of new agricultural practices and tax systems, which, though modernizing, were exploitative and caused agrarian distress.
Bombay Presidency
Northern Karnataka:
Regions such as Belgaum, Dharwad, and Bijapur were annexed into the Bombay Presidency after British victories in the Maratha Wars.
These areas were influenced by the administrative and social policies of the Bombay Presidency.
Cultural and Economic Changes:
Spread of Western education and rail connectivity boosted economic activities.
The cotton industry, particularly in Dharwad, flourished under British policies.
Administrative Challenges
Integration posed challenges due to diverse cultural and linguistic differences between Karnataka and the larger presidencies.
The exploitation of resources and imposition of high taxes caused significant economic hardships for the local population.
Legacy
The integration laid the foundation for administrative standardization and modernization, albeit at the cost of traditional systems and local autonomy.
Formation of Mysore as a Princely State
Historical Context
After the defeat and death of Tipu Sultan in 1799, the British restored the Wodeyar dynasty in Mysore.
Krishnaraja Wodeyar III was installed as the ruler, but real power remained in the hands of the British Resident stationed in Mysore.
Mysore became a princely state under British suzerainty, with the Wodeyars as titular rulers.
Subsidiary Alliance
The state entered into a Subsidiary Alliance with the
British, which allowed the East India Company to control Mysores defense and foreign relations while the Wodeyars retained internal administrative control.The British stationed a military contingent in Mysore and received a subsidy for its maintenance.
Direct Administration (1831-1881)
Due to alleged mismanagement and financial irregularities, the British took direct control of Mysore in 1831.
A British commissioner governed the state, with Mark Cubbon (18341861) being the most notable administrator.
Achievements under Mark Cubbon:
Development of infrastructure, including roads and railways.
Introduction of modern revenue systems.
Consolidation of law and order through judicial reforms.
Restoration of the Wodeyars
After prolonged advocacy by the Wodeyars and public sentiment favoring local rule, Mysore was restored to the royal family in 1881.
Chamaraja Wodeyar IX ascended the throne under a new governance model that retained British suzerainty but gave the ruler more autonomy.
Mysore as a Model State:
Mysore emerged as one of the best-administered princely states in India.
Investments in education, healthcare, and industrial development set it apart from other princely states.
Visionary rulers like Krishnaraja Wodeyar IV and his dewan, Sir M. Visvesvaraya, played pivotal roles in Mysore's progress.
Economic and Social Developments
Establishment of industries, such as the Mysore Iron Works and the Mysore Silk Factory, under British guidance and princely patronage.
Development of irrigation projects like the Krishnarajasagara Dam improved agriculture and rural livelihoods.
Political Developments
The rise of nationalist sentiments in the early 20th century saw Mysore becoming a hub for freedom movement activities.
Institutions like the Mysore Representative Assembly became platforms for advocating greater autonomy and self-governance.
Comparison of the Two Models
KPSC Notes brings Prelims and Mains programs for KPSC Prelims and KPSC Mains Exam preparation. Various Programs initiated by KPSC Notes are as follows:-- KPSC Mains Tests and Notes Program 2025
- KPSC Prelims Exam 2024- Test Series and Notes Program 2025
- KPSC Prelims and Mains Tests Series and Notes Program 2025
- KPSC Detailed Complete Prelims Notes 2025