Correct option is A
The correct answer is (A) Awadh.
Explanation:
Lord Dalhousie, the British Governor General of India from 1848 to 1856, used the policy of Doctrine of Lapse to annex several princely states, including Awadh (also called Oudh), in 1856. The annexation of Awadh was one of the key events that led to widespread resentment against British rule, and it became one of the major factors contributing to the First War of Independence in 1857. The annexation was justified by the British on the grounds of misgovernment by the Nawab of Awadh, but it caused anger among the local population and the military, particularly the sepoys, who had close ties with the ruling class of Awadh.
Information Booster:
The annexation of Awadh was seen as a violation of traditional Indian political systems and deeply hurt the sentiments of both the nobility and the common people in the region.
Lord Dalhousie's annexation of Awadh led to outrage, as it involved the removal of the Nawab of Awadh and direct British control. This was perceived as another step in the British imperial expansion.
The First War of Independence (1857) saw many revolts and uprisings against British policies, and the Annexation of Awadh was one of the primary causes of the discontent that fueled the rebellion.
Lord Dalhousie's policies also included the railways and telegraphs, but his aggressive annexation strategies made him unpopular, especially in regions like Awadh.
Additional Knowledge:
Punjab: Punjab was annexed after the Second Anglo-Sikh War (1849), which was led by Lord Dalhousie, but this happened after the annexation of Awadh.
Gwalior: The Battle of Gwalior was part of the 1857 rebellion, where forces loyal to the British fought against the Indian forces. Gwalior was not annexed before the revolt, but it was an important site during the uprising.
Assam: Assam was annexed in 1826 by the British following the Treaty of Yandabo after the First Anglo-Burmese War, well before Lord Dalhousie's tenure.