What key developments occurred in India between 1858–1914?

Between 1858 and 1914, India experienced significant political, social, and economic changes under British colonial rule.

In 1858, following the Indian Rebellion of 1857, the British Crown assumed direct control of India from the East India Company, marking the beginning of the British Raj. This period was characterised by significant political changes. The Indian Councils Act of 1861 and 1892 expanded the legislative councils in India, allowing for more Indian representation, albeit limited. The Indian National Congress was established in 1885, marking the beginning of organised political activism for Indian self-rule.

Socially, the British Raj brought about significant changes in Indian society. The British introduced Western education, leading to the emergence of a new middle class. This educated class played a crucial role in the Indian independence movement. The British also implemented social reforms, such as the abolition of sati (widow immolation) and the introduction of the Age of Consent Act in 1891, which raised the age of consent for sexual intercourse for all girls, married or unmarried, from ten to twelve years in all jurisdictions, its violation subject to penal consequence.

Economically, the period saw the transformation of India's economy to suit Britain's industrial needs. The British introduced new agricultural technologies and crops, leading to increased agricultural production. However, this also led to the commercialisation of agriculture, with farmers being forced to grow cash crops instead of food crops, leading to widespread poverty and famine. The British also invested heavily in infrastructure, building railways, roads, canals, and telegraph lines, transforming India's economy and society.

The period also saw the rise of Indian nationalism. The formation of the Indian National Congress in 1885 and the Muslim League in 1906 marked the beginning of organised political activism for Indian self-rule. The partition of Bengal in 1905 led to widespread protests and was a significant event that fuelled Indian nationalism.

In conclusion, the period between 1858 and 1914 was a time of significant change in India under British colonial rule. The political, social, and economic changes during this period laid the foundation for the Indian independence movement.