Right on Time: A Independent India TL

[LeonardWood6]

On the morning of January 14, 1761, palpable tension enveloped the Maratha camp at Panipat. The Marathas were aware of the dire stakes, and had prepared themselves for the impending clash with their Afghan adversaries. Victory was not merely an option but an imperative for their survival.

As the battle commenced, the Marathas displaying remarkable courage and resilience in the face of relentless opposition from the Afghans. However, despite their valor, the superior tactics of the Afghans began to take a toll.

Realizing the gravity of the situation, the Maratha commander reluctantly issued a painful yet necessary order for retreat. With heavy hearts, the Marathas regrouped, their spirits dampened by the realization of the formidable challenge ahead. (1)

Yet, in a stroke of fortune amidst adversity, the Marathas launched a final, desperate assault, managing to seize an Afghan camp and secure a vital stockpile of food. This temporary respite bolstered their resolve, but the looming threat of starvation continued to haunt them.

In a bid for salvation, the Maratha commanders dispatched urgent pleas for aid to the Jats and Sikhs.

Days passed, marked by anxious anticipation as the Marathas awaited any sign of assistance. As their hope began to wane, defeat loomed ever closer.

However, just as all seemed lost, a glimmer of hope emerged on the distant horizon. The Marathas watched as thousands of Jat and Sikh troops descended upon the Afghan lines. With renewed vigor, the combined forces of the Marathas, Jats, and Sikhs clashed ferociously against the retreating Afghans, ultimately emerging triumphant. (2)

With Ahmad Shah Durrani's forces defeated, a new alliance was born amidst all of the chaos. Jassa Singh Ahluwalia, the Sikh leader, and Suraj Mal, the Jat leader, joined forces. Together, they set their sights on Delhi, launching a relentless campaign to reclaim the heart of Taqat-e-Hind.

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(1): The first PoD
(2): The second PoD

 

[LeonardWood6]

Following the decisive victory of the united Sikh-Jat forces and the Marathas, the Indian subcontinent experiences a significant transformation, with a complex geopolitical landscape emerging and altering the balance of power.

With their combined might and territorial gains, the Sikhs and Jats establish control over Eastern Punjab, Delhi, and Haryana, strengthening their positions as formidable regional powers. Meanwhile, the Marathas maintain authority over Maharashtra, the Malwa region (Madhya Pradesh), and Gujarat, expanding their influence by incorporating Rajasthan into their growing empire.

As the dust settles from their triumph over the Afghan forces, both nations continue to assert their dominance and extend their territories. In the west, the Marathas move forward, incorporating Sindh and pushing deeper into the Indian subcontinent. At the same time, the Sikhs and Jats advance their territorial expansion, securing Western Punjab and acquiring additional lands up to Afghanistan's borders, reshaping India's western frontiers.

While attention is focused on the west, significant changes unfold in the east. The Zamindars of Oudh seize the opportunity presented by the collapse of the Mughal Empire and the shifting power dynamics, swiftly consolidating their control over modern-day Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand. They unite these territories to establish the Dominion of Oudh, a realm ruled by the noble Zamindars, asserting their authority in the area, and further complicating matters.

In the southern part of the subcontinent, the Kingdom of Mysore emerges as a rising power under the ambitious leadership of Hyder Ali. Hyder Ali becomes a central figure in the struggle for regional dominance, with his primary rival being the Nizam of Hyderabad. Pursuing an expansionist policy, Hyder Ali, and later his son Tipu Sultan, conquer smaller Indian kingdoms like Travancore, solidifying their position as significant players in the southern theater of Indian politics.

 

[LeonardWood6]

Hello everyone,

It's me LeonardWood6, with another TL. This TL is a rewrite of my other TL called Just in Time: An Independent India TL. This TL will start off similar, but it will diverge DRAMATICALLY in the 20th Century. How? That, my fellow readers, is a secret. You must stick around to find out!

Anyway, I'm really looking forward to writing this timeline, and improving upon my previous work. If you have questions or suggestions for me, please give them! I would love to hear them! If you like this, give a like! If you have constructive criticism, give it! I accept any and all constructive criticism, as I do hope to become a better writer!

Anyway, here we go on Mr. LeonardWood6's WILD RIDE! I hope you all enjoy it along with me!

-LeonardWood6

 

[LeonardWood6]

In the early months of 1761, the Indian subcontinent witnessed a seismic shift in its geopolitical landscape.

The union of the Sikhs and Jats into the Republic of Punjab, joined with the consolidation of Maratha power in the west and the creation of the Dominion of Oudh/Awadh in the east, sent shockwaves throughout the region. These newfound nations signaled the rise of indigenous Indian States asserting their sovereignty and influence.

Amidst these major changes, the British-held Bengal, once an unrivaled bastion of power, began to feel the mounting pressure from the united alliance of regional powers. They were quite concerned about the shifting dynamics in India. So the British government in Westminster intervened, imposing more direct control over the East India Company. They bolstered their military presence, deploying additional troops to the Subcontinent under the leadership of Robert Clive. They gave Clive a mission: expand the British power-base and safeguard their interests in the subcontinent.

The territory earmarked for expansion belonged to the Nizam of Hyderabad, Ali Khan Asaf Jah II. Employing their trademark tactics of guns, gold, and guile, the British endeavored to draw the Nizam into their sphere of influence. They offered financial incentives, military support, and veiled threats to secure his cooperation. Ultimately, the Nizam acquiesced, granting the British access to his territories in exchange for assurances of protection and support.

However, this alliance with the Nizam was condemned by the neighboring Kingdom of Mysore, led by the ambitious and determined Hyder Ali. Viewing the British-Nizam alliance as a direct threat to his kingdom's sovereignty, Hyder Ali, with tacit backing from the Marathas, launched a daring attack on the British base at Arcot, catching the British off guard, swiftly capturing the city and igniting the flames of conflict.

In response, the British declared war on Mysore in early 1767, marking the beginning of the First Anglo-Mysore War. The Nizam pledged his support to the British cause, leading to a series of confrontations between Mysore and the combined forces of the British and the Nizam.

Despite initial successes, including the capture of Calicut and a victory at the Battle of Gutty, the British campaign faced significant challenges due to Hyder Ali's strategic maneuvering and the looming threat of Maratha intervention. The situation reached a critical juncture when the Marathas signaled their intent to back Mysore, prompting Hyder Ali to confront the British directly at the Battle of Gurramkonda in June 1769.

Though the outcome of the battle favored the British, with the Mysore army forced into retreat, the British had also suffered heavy casualties. Furthermore, the looming possibility of Maratha involvement, combined with the mounting toll of disease and attrition, compelled the British to withdraw to Madras. After another year of inconclusive fighting, the Treaty of Goa was signed in August of 1770, effectively establishing Hyderabad as a British vassal state and solidifying British influence in the region.

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Thus, the stage is set for the next major conflict. Stay tuned!

 

[LeonardWood6]

In Bengal, British rule stirred a lot of resentment among the native population. Dissent simmered under the surface. This set the stage for a cataclysmic upheaval that would shake the very foundations of British rule in the region. As tensions simmered, the British leadership found itself divided on how best to address the growing discontent brewing in Bengal.

Charles Cornwallis advocated for a tough approach, pushing for increased British control to suppress dissent. Thomas Wellesley, on the other hand, favored a more diplomatic stance, urging dialogue with the native population. Despite differing opinions, Cornwallis's approach won out, resulting in authoritarian governance that only worsened the grievances of Bengalis.

The situation reached a breaking point with the Great Bengal Famine of 1769-1770, devastating Bengal and Bihar. Skyrocketing land taxes and drought left millions facing starvation and death. Approximately one-third of the population perished, sparking widespread outrage.

The response of the British East India Company to the famine-induced crisis only compounded the suffering of the Bengali populace. Instead of offering relief and assistance, the BEIC callously raised land taxes to an exorbitant 60%, seeking to recompense themselves for the lost lives. This further fueled resentment and anger among the Indian population, particularly among the mercantile elite of Bengal who found themselves marginalized and disenfranchised.

The Bengal Famine spurred the Bengal Rebellion, or Bengal War of Independence, in 1770. The mercantile elite, backed by famine-stricken locals, revolted against British oppression, marking the start of a revolution challenging British dominance.

The rebellion garnered support from neighboring Indian states. The Dominion of Oudh sought a coastal ally, while the Marathas aimed to weaken British influence, sending their armies to aid the Bengal rebels. Despite initial British efforts to contain the joint Maratha-Oudh advance, their adversaries' numerical advantage took its toll, setting the stage for a decisive showdown over British rule in Bengal.

 

[LeonardWood6]

As the British struggled to hold their ground against the combined forces of the Maratha-Oudh-Rebel alliance in the north, Hyder Ali of Mysore seized the opportunity to avenge the losses incurred during the First Anglo-Mysore War. Declaring war on Hyderabad in 1772, Hyder Ali unleashed the full might of the Mysorean army, equipped with improved strategy, tactics, and weaponry, including the devastating iron-cased rockets.

Under the leadership of Tipu Sultan, the Mysorean army devised a new strategy that exploited the accuracy and destructive power of their rocket artillery. Employing probing attacks to identify weaknesses in the enemy front lines, they would then unleash a torrent of rockets to sow chaos and disorganization among the enemy ranks before launching a full-scale offensive to exploit the breach and encircle enemy troops, and then wage a battle of annihilation and reduce the pockets (1). This proved devastatingly effective against both the Nizam's army and the British forces.

Despite the advanced weaponry at their disposal, the Nizam's army found themselves unable to withstand the Mysorean offensive. The British, stretched thin by the demands of conflict on multiple fronts, struggled to provide adequate support to their vulnerable ally.

However, the final blow to British hegemony in India came not from within the subcontinent, but from across the globe, in the form of the American Revolution. The diversion of British resources and attention to the conflict in the New World ultimately tipped the scales in favor of the Indian Alliance, hastening the collapse of British power in the region.

After five years of relentless conflict, the Rebellion concluded with Bengal emerging victorious and securing its independence. In the south, the withdrawal of British forces in 1775 led to the rapid collapse of the Nizam of Hyderabad, further weakening British influence in the region. Forced to the peace table, the British signed the Treaty of Calcutta, conceding defeat in humiliating terms and mandating the recognition of Bengal's independence and their withdrawal from the region.

With the British finally ousted from Indian soil, the Indian subcontinent was liberated from colonial rule. By 1783, it was divided into five distinct nations: the Republic of Punjab, the Maratha Federation, the Republic of Bengal, the Dominion of Awadh/Oudh, and the Kingdom of Mysore. Each of these nations embarked on a journey of political, social, and economic development, shaping the course of Indian history in the years to come.

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(1): Think of this as a precursor to WWI Tactics of using artillery to "soften up" the enemy front-line, and then launching an offensive to break through. In this world, Indian Artillery will be the top notch of the world, and Indian military tactics will play a major role in warfare.

 

[LeonardWood6]

The Maratha Federation, with its capital in the bustling city of Pune, emerged to wield considerable influence over the Indian subcontinent during the 18th century. Characterized by a certain degree of decentralization, the Federation's power structure, while not without its challenges, enabled it to assert dominance over a vast and diverse territory.

Following their conquest of Sindh, the Marathas initially attempted to unify the region under the banner of religious unity. But the diverse religious composition of Sindh caused tensions and violent incidents. So the Marathas abandoned this approach. Instead, the Marathas fostered a common regional "identity" to unite their diverse lands, allowing the Federation to function, though this wasn't perfect. Maharashtra and Gujarat formed the heartland and core of the nation, while areas like Sindh, Rajasthan, and Malwa were further from the central administration and thus less directly ruled.

Central to the Maratha Federation's strength was its close relationship with Punjab, forged through their cooperation during the critical Battle of Panipat two decades earlier. This strategic alliance, rooted in mutual respect and shared military objectives, served as a cornerstone of stability and prosperity in the region, with Punjab happy to reciprocate the Federation's goodwill and support.

On the seas, the Maratha navy patrolled the Arabian Sea, collaborating with the Ottoman Empire, with whom relations were cordial, to safeguard maritime trade. The administration invested heavily in developing the Gujarat coastline, transforming cities like Surat into hubs of commerce. Surat, renowned as the "Antwerp of the East," attracted merchants from around the world, fostering an exchange of ideas and innovations.

Maratha ports, including Surat and Goa, flourished as major centers of trade, facilitating the exchange of goods and wealth across the Indian Ocean. The establishment of India's first bank, the Bank of Pune, and the Surat Stock Exchange signaled the Federation's growing economic influence. Inspired by Western models, these financial institutions played a crucial role in facilitating trade and investment within and beyond the Indian subcontinent.

While the Marathas did not possess significant natural resources or engage extensively in manufacturing, their wealth increased from trade with Europe and Asia, positioning them as a trading and financial powerhouse. Governed by a relatively authoritarian yet efficient cadre of administrators, the Federation operated as a meritocracy, promoting individuals based on their abilities and competence, ensuring the stability of the Federation.

 

[LeonardWood6]

The Dominion of Awadh/Oudh, situated in a relatively small yet densely populated region, stood in stark contrast to the Maratha Federation, boasting a distinct economic and social landscape shaped by its unique set of circumstances.

At the heart of Awadh's socio-economic structure were the Zamindars, or feudal landowners, who held sway over vast areas of fertile land. With its fertile lands and favorable agricultural conditions, Awadh emerged as the nation's breadbasket.

Unlike the Maratha Federation, Awadh's economic activities were primarily geared towards domestic markets, with limited engagement in international trade. The region's governance structure was centered in Lucknow, but practical political control was decentralized, with city-states and massive feudal estates exerting significant influence over local affairs.

In this arrangement, the capital city of Lucknow and its ruling Raja held more symbolic importance than practical political control, as power was largely distributed among the feudal landowners. Despite its relatively underdeveloped state, Awadh maintained a close and interdependent relationship with Bengal. The region relied on Bengal's ports to export its agricultural produce, forming a vital economic partnership that sustained both regions' economies.

Additionally, Awadh's strategic location as a central transit point for trade routes within the subcontinent enabled it to generate substantial revenue from merchants traveling across India. These land routes facilitated the movement of goods and commodities, further highlighting Awadh's significance as a central hub of trade and commerce in the region.

 

[LeonardWood6]

The Republic of Punjab, with Lahore as its capital, stood as a beacon of democratic governance, with a unique system of governance that originated from Sikh principles and traditions. Inspired by the Sarbat Khalsa, a democratic convention held by Sikhs during times of war and crisis, Punjab embraced this model and made it their government.

In this system, each Misl, or Sikh confederacy (think of them almost as states/districts), elected representatives to attend the Lahore Durbar, where debates and discussions on governance matters took place. The leader of the Sikh nation, known as the Sardar, was chosen through massive democratic conventions.

In 1782, following the passing of the esteemed Jassa Singh Ahluwalia, the founder of the Punjab state, Akali Phula Singh was elected as the leader of United Punjab, marking a pivotal moment in the history of the Republic. Under his leadership, Punjab embarked on ambitious industrialization efforts. Though driven initially by the need to modernize the army, he eventually recognized that industrialization offered broader economic benefits. While Punjab also had agriculture, with the lands surrounding the Indus River being incredibly fertile, Punjab's agricultural system differed significantly from Oudh's, due to the land reforms implemented by Baba Banda Singh Bahadur, which prevented the dominance of Zamindars and led to increased agricultural productivity (1).

The heavily militarized state remained in a constant state of readiness due to ongoing conflicts on the Afghan and Persian frontier. Punjab was often seen as the "protector" of the Subcontinent, as it held the gateway to the Subcontinent. Industrialization efforts focused on the production of steel and other related products, with India gaining renown for its high-quality steel production during this era (2).

Punjab's industrial ambitions necessitated a heavy dependence on key resources from other regions. Coal from Bengal's Dhanbad mines was crucial to fuel the industrial machine, while transport routes from Awadh played a pivotal role in moving goods and resources. Maratha ports in Mumbai provided vital access for exporting iron and steel products to various destinations. Due to Punjab's role as the "protector" of the Subcontinent, the other states allowed for increased access of resources to Punjab, recognizing Punjab's necessity.

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(1): True story
(2): Also true. India did produce high-quality steel IRL.

There are many who are admirers of Prussia in Punjab. Punjab has a high amount of Prussophiles, and this will only increase as time goes on, so it will lead to some interesting developments...

 

[LeonardWood6]

The Republic of Bengal emerged as a formidable entity, renowned for its economic prowess and industrial advancement, particularly in the fields of shipbuilding and textile manufacturing. Governed from the bustling city of Calcutta, Bengal operated as a republic, where administrative affairs were managed amidst thriving economic activities reminiscent of the old merchant republic of Venice.

Bengal's significance in shipbuilding stretched back all the way to the Mughal Era, and Bengal continued to maintain its status as the world's largest shipbuilder. Drawing on European technology and leveraging high-quality Punjabi steel, Bengal made significant strides in shipbuilding, pioneering the construction of steel ships that found widespread success in the international market. This expertise in shipbuilding contributed to Bengal's economic prosperity and also solidified its position as a maritime powerhouse.

In addition to shipbuilding, Bengal boasted a well-developed industry, standing as a global leader especially in textile manufacturing. The region's vast textile industry churned out a diverse array of high-quality fabrics. Bengal would earn the title of the "factory of India" for finished goods. This thriving manufacturing and industrial sector fueled Bengal's economic growth.

As a trade-based, resource-rich, and industrially advanced Republic, Bengal had all 3 winning characteristics that made a nation strong. While the other Indian states usually had one or two, but lacked another one, Bengal was the jackpot, being all three. Bengal played a pivotal role in driving economic growth and trade on the Indian subcontinent. Its influence extended well beyond its borders, cultivating strong and close relationships with all the regions and states of India, and also beyond.

 

[LeonardWood6]

The Kingdom of Mysore, renowned as the "Tiger of India," underwent a remarkable transformation during the 18th century, emerging as a formidable power in the Indian subcontinent under the visionary leadership of the Wadiyar dynasty. This period of rapid modernization and economic growth marked a significant chapter in Mysore's history, characterized by industrialization, urbanization, and cultural resurgence.

Traditionally known for its weaving economy, Mysore faced mounting challenges from global competition, prompting its king Tipu Sultan to embark on an ambitious agenda to modernize the nation's economic model. This period witnessed a remarkable wave of industrialization, fueled in part by foreign investments that injected capital into the kingdom, resulting in a significant expansion of infrastructure and a lot of economic development.

Central to Mysore's transformation was the phenomenon of urbanization, with the city of Mysore itself undergoing a remarkable expansion to become a major urban center. The Wadiyar dynasty, renowned as great patrons of the arts, played a pivotal role in this cultural renaissance by promoting cultural endeavors. But they also simultaneously modernized the city with essential amenities and efficient sanitation systems. This approach facilitated the city's growth and development, contributing to its emergence as the largest city within the kingdom, with a population surpassing two million. Other cities such as Madras, Calicut, Hyderabad, Bangalore, and Pondicherry also flourished during this era, becoming centers of economic activity and cultural significance.

Despite the legislative and economic progress witnessed during this time period, the Kingdom of Mysore retained its status as an absolute monarchy under the rule of the Wadiyar dynasty. This era marked a remarkable chapter in the history of Mysore, and was characterized by rapid modernization, industrialization, and urban growth. All of it achieved under the enlightened benevolent rule of the Wadiyar dynasty.

 

[LeonardWood6]

The early 19th century witnessed a remarkable shift in the politics of the Indian subcontinent, as the winds of Romantic Nationalism from Europe began to sweep across the nation. Visionaries and thinkers within India dared to dream of a "United India," where people of varying religions, cultures, and ethnicity could unite under a common flag. Initially, this was viewed with suspicion and fear by the ruling elite.

But they soon realized the potential of Indian Nationalism. Indian leaders recognized the opportunity to harness it for their own benefit. They understood that by embracing nationalism, they could consolidate their control over the subcontinent, transcending the boundaries of individual kingdoms.

In response to these developments and spurred by a desire for unity, representatives from each of the five major nations of India embarked on a historic journey to attend the Bharat Mahasangh (Grand Assembly of India) in the newly reconstructed city of Delhi.

Known as the Congress of Delhi, this grand assembly drew parallels to the Congress of Vienna and brought together delegates from Punjab, Mysore, Bengal, Oudh, and the Marathas. In a historic agreement, these diverse Indian states united to form a confederation, marking a significant departure from previous dynamics of conflict and quarreling. Each member would retain a significant degree of autonomy, but collectively, they aimed to forge a shared vision of nationhood and governance. Maharaja Ranjit Singh, the symbolic figurehead of Punjab, graciously handed over the city of Delhi to the newly established Confederal Government.

The confederation's central command center in Delhi symbolized the heart of this new political entity. This structure would later inspire the formation of the German Empire, and it would lead to a more unified and cohesive Indian subcontinent, fostering a sense of common identity and purpose among the Indian people.

 

[LeonardWood6]

The governmental structure of the Indian Confederation was a complex combination of democratic principles, meritocracy, and regional autonomy. At the heart of this structure lay the Grand Assembly of India, known as the Bharat Mahasangh, serving as the legislature where citizens exercised their voting rights to elect delegates representing their respective districts. These delegates, in turn, played a crucial role in selecting the Consul, the Executive, the singular person representing the entire nation. The Consul was chosen based on talent and leadership qualities, and it could be anyone in the nation, though of course, more affluent and powerful members of Indian society usually were more likely to be chosen as Consul.

The Consul appointed Ministers from a pool of candidates who had demonstrated their competence through rigorous meritocratic examinations. This approach aimed to foster transparency, efficiency, and accountability within the government, reducing risks of corruption and nepotism. Similarly, the judicial branch, embodied by the High Court, operated under the Consul's oversight, with judges chosen based on merit and skill, as well as impartiality.

However, the delegate system, while democratic in principle and was made to ensure representation of the people, faced criticism for its unequal allocation of delegates across districts. Each district was represented by a single delegate irrespective of its population size. This discrepancy between urban and rural regions highlighted the need for reforms to address these inequities within the electoral system.

Moreover, the presence of differing systems of governance within each "nation" of the Indian Confederation added another layer of complexity. While republics like the Republic of Punjab and the Republic of Bengal somewhat mirrored the structure of the Confederal Government, others, like the Dominion of Oudh and the Kingdom of Mysore, remained absolute monarchies, leading to a peculiar contradiction in governance styles. This diversity and varied political cultures and ideals further complicated matters, posing challenges in achieving consensus at the Confederal level.

Despite these complex issues and contradictions, the Indian Confederation managed to maintain stability and functioned properly.

 

[LeonardWood6]

The British Empire found itself in a less than favorable position following the Bengal Rebellion and the subsequent formation of the Indian Confederation. Traditional tactics of divide-and-conquer were rendered useless as the Indian states coalesced under a unified banner, presenting a formidable challenge to British hegemony in the region. This made any attempts at reasserting control over the subcontinent exceedingly difficult at best, and outright impossible at the very worst.

In response, the British devised the "Constriction" Plan, aiming to encircle India with colonies or allies to exert pressure on the India Confederation. Burma became a primary target and was on the chopping block. Governor-General Thomas Wellesley lead campaigns to subjugate the kingdom and divide its territory between British-controlled regions in the south and allied successor states in the north.

Additionally, the British sought to cultivate ties with the Qajar Dynasty and Russia to counterbalance the influence of Indian states, particularly Punjab. However, the Indian nations were beginning to expand beyond their borders, and this posed significant hurdles to British designs.

 

[LeonardWood6]

The period spanning from the 1840s to the early 1860s witnessed a profound change in the Indian subcontinent. It was characterized by an unprecedented massive wave of industrialization, technological innovation, and economic expansion. In Gujarat and Cochin, bustling ports emerged as vibrant hubs of commerce, facilitating the exchange of goods within India and global partners. Maritime trade flourished, driving economic growth and contributing to the prosperity of coastal communities.

In Bengal, renowned for shipbuilding, a shift occurred as the region embraced modern technologies to embark on the production of ironclad ships. This transition revolutionized India's naval abilities, positioning Bengal as a major maritime power in the Indian Ocean. The dockyards of Bengal became hotbeds of innovation, pioneering the construction of advanced vessels that would play vital roles in safeguarding India's interests.

Meanwhile, Oudh, inspired by the industrial advancements witnessed in Europe, started ambitious railway construction projects. This led to a new era of transportation and connectivity. The introduction of railways did not just allow for the movement of goods and people faster. It also spurred economic development and urbanization across the entire region. Supported by the Zamindars, Oudh emerged as a key player in India's infrastructure revolution.

Punjab, renowned for its expertise in steel production, used its strengths to become a global leader in the manufacturing of high-quality steel. The region's steel industry fueled industrial growth, supplying essential materials for construction, machinery, and infrastructure projects, both within India, and abroad. Punjab's steel mills would soon become symbols of progress and prosperity, driving diversification and attracting investment from abroad.

Simultaneously, India's naval forces underwent major modernization, asserting their dominance in the Indian Ocean. The formidable presence of the Indian Navy enhanced India's maritime influence, and it also solidified India's status as a major player in the world.

The Consuls of India recognized the pivotal role of education in shaping the nation's future. Prioritizing public education, India witnessed an enormous surge in literacy rates, creating a skilled workforce, which drove innovation and productivity across many different sectors. This commitment to education would lay the foundation for India's success, and positioned the nation as an example of successful modernization.

However, with India's growing ambitions for territorial expansion and resource acquisition, tensions with other European powers loomed on the horizon, setting the stage for inevitable conflicts and wars over influence and control in the region.

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India is starting to expand beyond its borders. I will be covering Indian Imperialism... next time!

 

[LeonardWood6]

By the 1860s, India had transcended its borders to establish itself as a burgeoning imperial power, embarking on a strategic campaign of expansion and influence projection across the Indian Ocean region. Led by key states such as the Maratha Federation, Bengal, and Mysore, India's imperial ambitions were driven by a combination of economic interests, geopolitical considerations, and a desire to challenge European dominance in the region.

The Maratha Federation expanded, with the Sultanate of Oman falling under their sphere of influence. They also "rented" the vital port of Aden, and later, the entirety of the Mutawakkilite Kingdom of Yemen fell under Maratha influence. This solidified India's presence in the Arabian Peninsula. These acquisitions provided India with crucial choke-points along key maritime trade routes, enhancing India's strategic position in the Indian Ocean region. The Marathas expanded further along the Horn of Africa and the Swahili coast, and cultivated relations with neighboring kingdoms, like the Kingdom of Madagascar and the Kingdom of Abyssinia/Ethiopia, and established military outposts to safeguard their interests.

Meanwhile, Bengal attempted to expand into Burma, to counter British influence in the region. Although the success of these endeavors was limited, Bengal countered the British by fostering friendly relations with the Kingdom of Siam, further strengthening India's strategic position. Bengal also took the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, and established military and naval bases there.

Mysore, having previously defeated the Nizam and annexing Hyderabad, expanded its territorial reach, swiftly taking control of Ceylon (Sri Lanka) and establishing military bases in Sumatra and in Malaysia. With control over the strategically vital Strait of Malacca, India's maritime dominance was solidified, giving India much leverage over the key chokepoints and trade routes crucial for global commerce.

However, India's imperial expansion did not go unnoticed by other European powers, who grew increasingly concerned about India's ambitions. This raised the concern of potential conflicts, setting the stage for impending wars that would test India's aspirations on the global stage.

 

[LeonardWood6]

India's expansionist and imperialist ideology is characterized by a sense of paternalism. Unlike the traditional racist ideologies prevalent in European imperialist ideology, India views its subject populations as "younger siblings" in need of guidance and protection, rather than inferior races to be subjugated. India considered itself as the "older brother" responsible for guiding and protecting its subject populations.

This paternalistic approach sees India assuming the role of an older brother or relative, responsible for the welfare and development of its subject peoples. While there may be genuine efforts to improve living standards and promote development, the extent to which these actions stem from altruism versus strategic considerations is subject to debate.

The Indian Confederation used sophisticated media campaigns and propaganda to instill loyalty and gratitude among its subject populations. These campaigns depict India as a benevolent protector and demonize other European powers, particularly the British, portraying them as brutal and oppressive. By highlighting examples of European brutality, India fostered a sense of fear and distrust towards foreign powers, further solidifying loyalty to the Confederation. The narrative propagated portrays India as a benevolent protector, promising continued support and protection as long as the subject populations refrained from "troublemaking" actions.

The subject populations of India's colonies are conditioned to see India as their benefactor and protector, and tended to exhibit strong loyalty and allegiance to their overseers. They are taught to be grateful for the assistance provided by India, and also to fear & hate the perceived brutality of other European powers. This loyalty and gratitude ensure that the subject populations remain compliant and passive, reducing resistance or rebellion against Indian rule.

 

[LeonardWood6]

The Dutch-Mysore War of 1868 erupted due to escalating tensions between the Dutch Empire and the Indian Confederation, fueled by provocative actions. The spark was the sinking of an unarmed Indian merchant vessel by Dutch forces, which angered the Indian public and prompted a declaration of war against the Netherlands.

Mysore seized the initiative in the conflict with bold actions. They launched a surprise attack on a major Dutch port in the Dutch East Indies, catching the Dutch fleet off guard and resulting in significant losses for the Dutch. Exploiting their naval superiority, Mysorean forces swiftly followed up with a full-scale invasion of the island and an offensive on Sumatra, demonstrating their military prowess and determination to assert control over the region.

The Dutch Army's attempt to mount a counter-offensive on Sumatra ended disastrously, as they encountered a formidable coalition of Indian forces armed with advanced weaponry and supported by native Sumatrans. The Sumatrans, influenced by Indian propaganda demonizing Europeans, fought with unparalleled zeal and ferocity, contributing significantly to their eventual defeat.

The Treaty of Calcutta in 1870 brought an end to the hostilities, with Sumatra being ceded to the Indian Confederation. This outcome represented a severe humiliation for the Dutch, as their ambitions in the region were thwarted. The war showed the strength and unity of the Indian Confederation and dealt a significant blow to Dutch imperial aspirations.

 

[LeonardWood6]

During the 19th century, India witnessed reform movements which aimed at addressing social injustices and promoting equality. At the forefront of these movements was the Arya Samaj, led by Dayananda Saraswati, which sought to reform Hinduism and return it to its original Vedic roots. One of the central objectives of the Arya Samaj was the abolition of the caste system, which had long been a source of oppression and discrimination.

The efforts of the Arya Samaj gained significant momentum. Although India's meritocratic system of governance already began to de-facto render the caste system toothless and impractical. As the movement for caste abolition gained traction, it eventually reached the highest levels of government in the Indian Confederation. Consul Raja Ram Mohan Roy, recognizing the need for reform, officially abolished the caste system nationwide, despite facing backlash from orthodox Hindus.

In addition to caste abolition, Consul Roy implemented a series of progressive reforms aimed at promoting equality and justice for all citizens of the Indian Confederation. He introduced education reforms, expanded rights and protections, and amended the Indian Constitution to enshrine the principle of equality for all individuals, regardless of race, ethnicity, gender, religion, wealth, or other status. Notably, Roy also advocated for measures resembling affirmative action, although these proposals did not get implemented.

Despite facing opposition, Roy's reforms garnered widespread support and acclaim. When he stepped down, his approval ratings were around 90%. His legacy as one of the greatest reformers in Indian history was secured, and he became a symbol of progress and equality. Roy's influence extended far beyond India, inspiring movements for equal rights and social justice worldwide, including the African-American Civil Rights Movement.

 

[LeonardWood6]

The 1870 Franco-Prussian War marked a significant turning point in India's history. India chose to align with the victorious German Empire. This alliance had far-reaching implications for India, particularly in terms of economic and military development. German businesses quickly established a presence in India, bringing with them expertise, investment, and industrial know-how.

The 1884 Anglo-Indian War, triggered by Bengal's expansion into British Burma and the subsequent war with the British, also proved vital to India's path. While it ultimately ended in a stalemate, it proved the need for India to reform and modernize its armed forces. In response, comprehensive reforms were implemented. This militarism showed a concerted effort to enhance defensive capabilities and assert Indian sovereignty. These reforms transformed India's military capabilities and positioned it as a formidable power in the region.

The close relationship with Germany played a pivotal role in shaping India. German advisors provided crucial assistance in military restructuring efforts. Furthermore, German industrial expertise also led to increased economic growth in India, with German companies establishing their presence in many sectors, ranging from manufacturing to infrastructure development.

The strategic alliance with Germany not only facilitated economic and military growth but also initiated a cultural exchange between the two nations. Indian elites sent their children to German universities for education, further strengthening.

The presence of German enterprises, such as Krupp, in India, coupled with the visionary Indian leaders, increased India's industrial and economic prowess. As a result, India ascended to become the fifth-largest economy globally, trailing only major powers like the British Empire, the United States, the French Empire, and the German Empire. Regions like Punjab and Bengal experienced unprecedented economic expansion.

India's alignment with Germany during this period was instrumental in shaping its trajectory.