Q1. Which governor-general is known for drastically expanding British territories using diplomacy and war?
- Warren Hastings
- Lord Wellesley
- Lord Cornwallis
- Lord Dalhousie
Correct Option: 2. Lord Wellesley.
Explanation: Lord Wellesley (1798–1805) aggressively expanded British power using Subsidiary Alliances, wars, and territorial annexations.
Q2. What was a major consequence of disbanding Indian armies under the Subsidiary Alliance system?
- Rise of Pindarees
- Peace among Indian states
- Industrial revolution
- Increase in trade
Correct Option: 1. Rise of Pindarees.
Explanation: The disbandment left thousands of soldiers unemployed, many of whom became Pindarees—armed bands that looted and raided across India in the early 19th century.
Q3. Why did the Nawab of Awadh lose nearly half of his territory in 1801?
- He rebelled against the British
- He signed a Subsidiary Treaty
- He sought French support
- He supported Tipu Sultan
Correct Option: 2. He signed a Subsidiary Treaty.
Explanation: Under pressure, the Nawab of Awadh signed a Subsidiary Treaty, ceding Rohilkhand and other lands in exchange for British protection.
Q4. Why did the British fear Tipu Sultan?
- He supported American independence
- He was trying to form an alliance with other native rulers to oppose British
- He allied with the French and opposed British dominance
- His focus was on territorial expansion
Correct Option: 3. He allied with the French and opposed British dominance.
Explanation: Tipu Sultan was seen as a major threat because of his military strength and his diplomatic ties with France, their European rival.
Q5. What was the British strategic advantage in using Subsidiary Alliances?
- Ability to maintain large armies at Indian expense
- Control over foreign trade
- Lower cost of administration
- Increase in Indian nationalism
Correct Option: 1. Ability to maintain large armies at Indian expense.
Explanation: The British maintained military forces in Indian territories without bearing the cost themselves, enabling them to expand and control more areas efficiently.