Sirajuddaulah
Explanation
The Battle of Plassey, fought on June 23, 1757, was a pivotal event in Indian history that marked the beginning of British political supremacy in Bengal. The conflict arose due to disputes over trade privileges (dastaks) and the fortification of Calcutta by the British East India Company without the Nawab's permission.
Option Analysis
- Murshid Quli Khan Murshid Quli Khan: Incorrect. He was the first Nawab of Bengal (1717–1727) and established the independent state of Bengal. He ruled decades before the Battle of Plassey.
- Alivardi Khan Alivardi Khan: Incorrect. He ruled Bengal from 1740 to 1756. He was the grandfather of Sirajuddaulah and died a year before the battle took place.
- Sirajuddaulah Sirajuddaulah: Correct. He succeeded Alivardi Khan in 1756. He was the Nawab of Bengal who fought against the British forces led by Robert Clive at the Battle of Plassey in 1757. He was defeated and subsequently executed.
- Mir Jafar Mir Jafar: Incorrect. He was the Commander-in-Chief of Sirajuddaulah's army. He conspired with the British and betrayed Sirajuddaulah during the battle. The British installed him as the Nawab of Bengal after the victory at Plassey.
Key Takeaway
Sirajuddaulah was the Nawab of Bengal during the Battle of Plassey (1757). His defeat at the hands of Robert Clive, facilitated by the treachery of Mir Jafar, laid the foundation for the British Empire in India.