INDIA DURING THE AGE OF EMPIRE

The Journals of Michael Pakenham Edgeworth (1812-1881) from the Bodleian Library, Oxford

Key Events of the Period: 1829-1860

1829

Britain begins to stamp out the practice of Suttee in Bengal and takes steps against the fraternity of the Thugee, professional assassins who had taken vows to the goddess Kali.

1833

Renewal of the East India Company’s charter includes amendments placing more power in the hands of the British Government.

1839

Fear of a Russian advance to India’s north-west frontier leads to a pre-emptive British invasion of Afghanistan.

1849

Following clashes with the Sikhs of northern India in 1845 and 1848, the Punjab is annexed.

1857

The Indian Mutiny breaks out on May 10th, at Meerut as mutineers from Bengali regiments march on Delhi proclaiming Bahadur Shah as emperor.

1858

The India Act, designed as a post-Mutiny resettlement of government, annuls the power of the East India Company and transfers all administrative authority to the Crown.

1860

The Indian Councils Act stipulates that the Viceroy will be assisted by a council which will include Indian as well as British members.

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