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History Optional PYQ Master Pack · Model answer

‘If the paramount power cast its imperial cloak over the princes, it was also entitled to see that what was sheltered was in the main creditable.’ Comment in about 200 words.

  • UPSC 1989
  • Indian Response to British Rule

The statement captures the logic of paramountcy — the doctrine, evolved from Lord Hastings' era (1813-23), by which the British Crown claimed supremacy over Indian princely states, reducing sovereign allies to subordinate dependencies.

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What the full answer covers

  • The Bargain Behind Paramountcy

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