Q. Who among the following Europeans were the last to come to pre independence India as traders?
(a) Dutch
(b) English
(c) French
(d) Portuguese
Ans: (c) French
The correct answer is (c) French.
Explanation:
Among the options provided, the French were the last to come to pre-independence India as traders.
The Portuguese were the earliest European traders to arrive in India, with Vasco da Gama’s expedition reaching the Indian subcontinent in 1498.
The Dutch East India Company (VOC) established its presence in India in the early 17th century and traded extensively with various regions.
The English East India Company (EIC) arrived in India in the early 1600s and gradually expanded its influence and control over various parts of the country.
The French East India Company (Compagnie des Indes Orientales) established trading posts in India in the late 17th century and competed with the British for control over key territories.
However, by the time of India’s independence in 1947, the French presence in India had significantly diminished. The French territories, including Pondicherry, Karikal, Mahe, and Yanam, were integrated into independent India in 1954.
Therefore, the correct answer is (c) French.