Which region was the last to be annexed by the British East India Company before the 1857 revolt?

The correct option is

Awadh

Explanation

The expansionist policies of the British East India Company, particularly under Lord Dalhousie (Governor-General from 1848 to 1856), were a primary political cause of the Revolt of 1857. These annexations were carried out through the Doctrine of Lapse, military conquest, and accusations of maladministration.

Chronological Analysis of Annexations:

• Satara (1848): This was the first state to be annexed under the Doctrine of Lapse.
• Punjab (1849): Annexed following the British victory in the Second Anglo-Sikh War.
• Jhansi (1853): Annexed under the Doctrine of Lapse after the death of the ruler, Gangadhar Rao, as the British refused to recognize the adopted heir.
• Awadh (1856): This was the last major annexation before the revolt. It was annexed not through the Doctrine of Lapse, but on the grounds of "alleged misgovernance" (maladministration). The deposition of Nawab Wajid Ali Shah created significant unrest, particularly among the sepoys of the Bengal Army, many of whom were from Awadh.

Key Takeaway:

Awadh was annexed in 1856 on the pretext of maladministration, marking the final major territorial acquisition by the Company immediately prior to the outbreak of the 1857 Revolt.