The British East India Company played a significant role in the decline of the Mughal Empire. Through its expanding control and trade activities in India, the company gradually weakened the authority and resources of the Mughal rulers. The company established its own economic and administrative structures, undermining the Mughal administration and taxing system. Additionally, the Company's military interventions and territorial acquisitions further eroded the power and sovereignty of the Mughal Empire, eventually leading to its downfall.
In 3-5 sentences, assess the extent to which the Ming Dynasty developed productive connections with other countries, and include evidence.
The Ming Dynasty of China did establish some productive connections with other countries, but it operated mostly under a policy of isolationism. One example of successful international relationships was the maritime expeditions led by Admiral Zheng He, which facilitated trade and diplomatic interactions with Southeast Asia, India, and East Africa. However, these expeditions were eventually discontinued, and the Ming Dynasty implemented restrictive policies to limit foreign influences, such as the ban on maritime trade and the construction of the Great Wall. These actions suggest that while the Ming Dynasty had some engagement with other countries, its overall approach favored internal consolidation and limited external connections.
The British East India Company played a significant role in the decline of the Mughal Empire. Firstly, the Company's establishment of trading posts and the subsequent control it gained over key port cities disrupted the Mughal Empire's dominance over trade routes and weakened its economy. Secondly, the Company's policy of interfering in Mughal internal affairs through alliances and indirect rule gradually eroded the authority and legitimacy of the Mughal Emperor. Additionally, the Company's manipulation of local rulers and its expansionist policies resulted in territorial losses for the Mughal Empire, further weakening its power and undermining its unity. Overall, the presence and actions of the British East India Company served as catalysts for the eventual decline of the Mughal Empire.
