India's immense wealth and trade in spices, muslin, silk, and indigo were highly sought after in Europe. Traditional trade routes through Constantinople were blocked by Turkish Muslims in 1453, creating an urgent need for a new sea route. This blockage ignited the Age of Discovery as Europeans raced to reconnect with India. Explorers like Columbus failed, but Vasco da Gama finally reached India in 1498, opening the door for European powers.
Following the Portuguese, nations like the Dutch, British, and French established trade centers along India's coastal regions. The competition eventually narrowed down to the British and French East India Companies, leading to a series of intense conflicts known as the Carnatic Wars. In 1763, the French suffered a decisive defeat, leaving the British without a major European rival. This shift in power allowed the British to concentrate on expanding their influence across the subcontinent.
The British East India Company's focus shifted from mere profit through trade to gaining territorial control. Tensions rose with Nawab Siraj-ud-Daulah of Bengal, who opposed the company's growing influence. Recognizing the Nawab's military strength, Robert Clive orchestrated a conspiracy by recruiting the Nawab's own commander, Mir Jafar. This treachery led to a swift British victory at the Battle of Plassey in 1757, laying the foundation for British rule.
British greed led to the replacement of local leaders, eventually creating a confrontation with Mir Qasim. He formed a grand alliance with the Nawab of Awadh and the Mughal Emperor to challenge the British. This coalition was defeated at the Battle of Buxar in 1764, marking a turning point in Indian history. Following this victory, the British obtained Diwani Rights, giving them control over tax collection in Bengal, Bihar, and Orissa.