British Relations with Sind 1799-1843: An Anatomy of Imperialism

One of the major paradoxes of the nineteenth century was the continued growth of the British Empire at a time when the home authorities opposed expansion. The annexation of the Indian state of Sindh in 1843 is a notable examples of forces which abetted this situation. Huttenback's study of British relations with an independent Sindh from 1799 to 1843 provides valuable insight into the complexities of nineteenth-century British imperialism

Here is a thorough investigation of British activities in Sindh after 1799, the actual conquest, and subsequent repercussions. Huttenback presents the whole scope of British relations with Sindh from 1799 to 1843 without sacrificing the pre-annexation issues to the more romantic circumstances surrounding Sir Charles Napier and the conquest.

The author is acutely aware of the dominant influences of individuals in Sindh during this critical period. The motives, characteristics, and actions of major personalities are expertly drawn. He devotes great care to an honest appraisal of the role of Sir Charles Napier, commander of the British troops in Sindh and responsible for the eventual conquest of Sindh. However, the author point out that, "Actually Napier was only the last if most important actor in a drama the significance of which has never been duly appreciated."

The period involved is less than fifty years and in this short interval virtually all the factors which prompted British expansion on continents and in places far removed from the Indus Valley manifested themselves in Sindh. Among these were considerations of trade, communications, and defense, all of which fostered tensions between Great Britain and Sindh. But of prime importance was the great power of the "man on the spot," and it was the arrival of Sir Charles Napier which spurred events inexorably toward hostilities.