During the British rule in India, which of the following Governor Generals devised the ‘Doctrine of Lapse’, a policy of annexation?
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: D
Explanation
The correct answer is option 4 i.e. Lord Dalhousie.
During the British rule in India, the Governor General who devised the ‘Doctrine of Lapse’ was Lord Dalhousie. Implemented in the mid-19th century, this policy allowed the British East India Company to annex princely states if a ruler died without a male heir. The Doctrine of Lapse was used to expand British territories and exert control over Indian states. It played a significant role in the consolidation of British rule in India and contributed to discontent among Indian rulers.