In which of the following years was the Treaty of Bassein signed between the British East India Company and Baji Rao II, the Maratha Peshwa?
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: C
Explanation
The correct answer is option 3 i.e. 1802.
The Treaty of Bassein was signed in 1802 between the British East India Company and Baji Rao II, the Peshwa of the Maratha Empire. This treaty marked a turning point in Indian history as it placed the Maratha state under British protection. By agreeing to the treaty, Baji Rao II accepted the stationing of British troops in his territory and surrendered control over foreign relations. In return, the British promised him military support. The treaty effectively weakened Maratha independence, leading to resentment among other Maratha leaders and eventually triggering the Second Anglo-Maratha War (1803–1805), which expanded British dominance in India.