The military in British India

The development of British land forces in South-Asia 1600-1947.

A study of the conflicts which established British rule in South Asia, and of the military’s position in the constitution of British India. It outlines the course and the causes of the campaigns which the British in India fought against their European and South Asian rivals for the succession to the Mughal Empire. It also shows how, at times, there was conflict amongst the British themselves – between the British governments in London and India; between civil governors and their military commanders; and between officers and men. The Great Mutiny of 1857 brought about a new army and constitution. Although there were no more wars in British India, controversy continued over the army’s composition, organization and political control. The book ends with an analysis of the problems of recruiting and training the all-important officer corps, with the admission of Indians a crucial issue.