Question

    Which one of the following policies was used by the British to keep Napoleon at a distance? 

    A Policy of ring fence Correct Answer Incorrect Answer
    B Subsidiary alliance Correct Answer Incorrect Answer
    C Doctrine of lapse Correct Answer Incorrect Answer
    D Policy of Subordinate Isolation Correct Answer Incorrect Answer

    Solution

    ● Option B is correct: One of the objectives behind the strengthening of the subsidiary alliance system by Wellesley’s was to keep the French from reviving and expanding their influence in India. The fear of Napoleon’s expedition towards the East around this time was very real for the British. The Britishers felt that the French could attack the western coast of India from their colony of Mauritius. Hence, the clause in the alliance treaty allowed the Indian rulers to dismiss Europeans (other than the British) from their service and not employ any. The Company could station its forces at strategic locations and keep the French at bay by the means of this system.

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