Q. With reference to the Second Carnatic War (1749–1754), consider the following statements:
1.The war was characterized by Dupleix’s policy of exploiting the succession disputes in both the Nizamship of Hyderabad and the Nawabship of the Carnatic.
2.The initial French success involved placing their nominees, Muzaffar Jang and Chanda Sahib, on the thrones of Hyderabad and Arcot, respectively, confirming their dominant position in the Deccan.
3.The turning point in the war was Robert Clive’s successful siege and defense of Arcot, which diverted the French and Chanda Sahib’s forces and neutralized the French strategic advantage.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
Answer: D
Notes:
Explanation:
- Statement 1 is correct. The Second Carnatic War was a direct result of European intervention in the domestic political struggles: the Nizam succession after the death of Nizam-ul-Mulk, and the Nawab succession after the death of Anwar-ud-din.
- Statement 2 is correct. The French initially achieved great success, leading to the murder of the incumbent Nawab (Anwar-ud-din) and the ascension of the French nominees: Muzaffar Jang in Hyderabad and Chanda Sahib in Arcot (the Carnatic).
- Statement 3 is correct. The siege of Arcot (1751) led by Robert Clive, where a tiny English force held out against a large Indian and French army, was a legendary turning point. It forced the main French and Carnatic forces to lift the siege of Trichinopoly and neutralized the power of Chanda Sahib, effectively changing the military tide of the war.
