The Viceroys of India
The period of British colonial rule in India from 1858 to 1947, following the Revolt of 1857, is a crucial topic for UPSC aspirants, particularly in the History section of the Civil Services Examination. The Viceroys of India, as representatives of the British Crown, played a pivotal role in shaping colonial policies and administration. This article provides a detailed overview of all Viceroys from 1858 to 1947and their significant contributions Historical Context: The Role of the Viceroy The title of Viceroy was introduced under the Government of India Act 1858, which transferred administrative control from the East India Company to the British Crown due to the company’s mismanagement during the 1857 Revolt. The Viceroy, appointed by the British monarch, served as the head of the colonial government, overseeing political, economic, and social policies, managing relations with princely states, and implementing reforms that shaped modern India. Understanding their tenures is e...