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European Imperialism In British India

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The works of Thomas Metcalf, T.W. Roberts, Daniel Headrick, and other notable historians explore the development of the European imperial project through the use of architecture, technology, and medicine. These technologies become the machines and driving force of imperialism and are used to retain control over colonial regions. Headrick argues that these sciences provide the means to the motives behind the imperialist powers who are working to keep their territorial subjects subdued to their will. Without the means of technology, the motive can never be achieved, and the constructed empires are inevitably doomed to failure. Along with the means of technology, the invention, use, and implantation of these technologies also reflect the broader political and social trends of the empires. Architecture, technology, and medicine showcase the changes in imperial policies, ideologies and overarching view of the empire itself. (Present or Past Tense)
Metcalf’s analysis of architecture in British India shows how a combination of cultures becomes essential in designing an empire that reflected both the colonizer and the subjects. After the Sepoy Mutiny of 1857, British officials realized that a serious reassessment of Indian culture was necessary for Britain to remain the colonial power. Metcalf explores the construction of the Mayo College and the architectural debates that came with building it. The formation and science behind the architecture are essential to empire building

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