Q. The main factor that contributed to the final success of the British against other European traders in India was
(a) superior business skills
(b) improved quality of merchandise
(c) naval superiority
(d) good relation with Indian rulers
Ans: (c) naval superiority
Explanation: The main factor that contributed to the final success of the British against other European traders in India was (c) naval superiority.
Naval superiority played a crucial role in the British gaining an upper hand over other European traders in India. The British had a strong and powerful navy, which allowed them to establish control over coastal areas and secure their trade routes. Their naval dominance enabled them to effectively protect their interests, maintain communication and supply lines, and project their military power in the region.
The British Navy’s ability to control the sea ensured that they had a significant advantage over their rivals, as they could deploy troops and resources quickly and efficiently. This gave them an edge in conflicts and allowed them to establish and expand their territorial control in India. Additionally, their naval power helped in enforcing trade monopolies, suppressing piracy, and protecting their trading posts and colonies.
While factors such as superior business skills, improved quality of merchandise, and good relations with Indian rulers were also important, it was the British Navy’s dominance at sea that played a crucial role in their ultimate success against other European traders in India.
