PREVIOUSLY ASKED IN:
PSC Miscellaneous Prelims 2018
Answer
Clive and Siraj
Explanation
The Battle of Plassey took place on June 23, 1757, at Palashi on the banks of the Bhagirathi river. The battle was fought between Siraj-ud-Daulah, the last independent Nawab of Bengal, and the British East India Company forces led by Robert Clive. Due to the betrayal of Mir Jafar, Yar Lutuf Khan, and Rai Durlabh, the Nawab was defeated. This battle laid the foundation of the British Empire in India.
Key Points
- > The Battle of Plassey occurred on June 23, 1757.
- > Robert Clive led the British East India Company's army.
- > Siraj-ud-Daulah was the Nawab of Bengal during this battle.
- > Mir Jafar, the commander-in-chief of the Nawab's army, betrayed him.
- > Mir Madan and Mohan Lal fought loyally for the Nawab and died in battle.
- > After the victory, the British made Mir Jafar the puppet Nawab of Bengal.
- > Misuse of 'Dastak' (free trade passes) by Company officials was a major cause.
Additional Information
Important Battles in Bengal/India
| Battle Name | Year | Fought Between | Result |
|---|---|---|---|
| Battle of Plassey | 1757 | Siraj vs Robert Clive | British Victory |
| Battle of Bedara | 1759 | British vs Dutch | Dutch power eliminated |
| Battle of Wandiwash | 1760 | British vs French | French dominance ended |
| Battle of Buxar | 1764 | British vs Mir Qasim & Allies | Firm establishment of British rule |
Memory Tips
- Traitors' Ring: Mir Jafar, Jagat Seth, Omi Chand, Rai Durlabh all conspired against Siraj.
- Historical Sequence: Plassey (1757) laid the foundation, while Buxar (1764) cemented British supremacy in India.