The Secretary of State for India stated in 1861 that "All experience teaches us that where a dominant race rules another, the mildest form of government is a despotism." Who was the Secretary of State of India that made this statement?

Correct option is B

The correct answer is (b). Sir Charles Wood, who served as the Secretary of State for India from 1859 to 1866, made this statement while defending the autocratic nature of the British administration in India.
Information Booster

• Charles Wood is most famous for 'Wood's Despatch' of 1854, called the Magna Carta of English Education in India.
• The office of Secretary of State for India was created by the Government of India Act, 1858.
• The statement reflects the 'Benevolent Despotism' ideology prevalent among British officials.
• He played a key role in drafting the Indian Councils Act of 1861.
• He was the President of the Board of Control before becoming the Secretary of State.

• Lord Stanley: The first Secretary of State for India (1858–1859).
• Lord Canning: The last Governor-General under the Company and first Viceroy under the Crown.
• Sir John Lawrence: Served as the Viceroy of India from 1864 to 1869; known for his 'masterly inactivity' policy.