Anglo-Indian relations

Anglo-Indian relations are the relations of India and the United Kingdom.

British Raj (1858-1947)

In 1858, the British Government assumed direct control of the territories and treaty arrangements of the former British East India Company. In 1876, the area, which included modern India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh, became "The Indian Empire" (often known historically as the 'British Raj') with British Monarch Queen Victoria proclaimed as "Empress of India" (a title held by her successors until 1947).

Dominion of India (1947-1950)

Independence came in 1947 with the Partition of India into the Dominion of India, and the Dominion of Pakistan, within the Commonwealth of Nations. King George VI, who as British Monarch had been "Emperor of India", abandoned this title in 1947, and served as India's ceremonial head of state as 'King of India' (in much the same way, he also served as 'King of Pakistan'). In 1950 India became a Republic and the link with the British crown was severed.

The Dominion was part of the Sterling Area.

Republic of India (since 1950)

India remained in the Commonwealth of Nations after become a Republic, but diversified it's foreign relations beyond the former British Empire.

In particular, India became a major force within the Non-Aligned Movement, which initially sought to avoid taking sides during the Cold War. This contrasted with Britain's position as a founding member of NATO, and key ally of the United States.

However, relations between the two countries have generally been cordial.

Due mainly to post independence immigration, there are now over a million people of Indian descent in the United Kingdom.

ee also

* Anglosphere
* Foreign relations of the United Kingdom
* Foreign relations of India

References