Who was known as ‘Colonel Clive’s Jackal’ in the eighteenth Century India ?

The correct answer is - Mir Jafar

Key Points

• Mir Jafar was referred to as ‘Colonel Clive’s Jackal’ in 18th-century India.
  • Mir Jafar played a pivotal role in the Battle of Plassey (1757), which marked the beginning of British dominance in India.
  • He betrayed Nawab Siraj-ud-Daulah, aligning with the British East India Company under the leadership of Robert Clive.
  • His betrayal was instrumental in the British victory at Plassey, which led to the downfall of the Nawab of Bengal.
  • The British rewarded Mir Jafar by installing him as the Nawab of Bengal, but he was largely a puppet under their control.
• The term ‘Jackal’ was used to symbolize his treachery and subservience to the British.

Additional Information

• Battle of Plassey (1757)
  • Fought between the forces of Nawab Siraj-ud-Daulah and the British East India Company.
  • Robert Clive led the British forces, and Mir Jafar’s betrayal ensured the British victory.
  • The battle is considered a turning point in Indian history, as it laid the foundation for British colonial rule in India.
• Mir Jafar’s Downfall
  • Mir Jafar’s rule as Nawab of Bengal was marked by increasing dissatisfaction among the local population and elites.
  • He was later replaced by Mir Qasim, another puppet Nawab, when he failed to meet British expectations.
  • This cycle of puppet rulers highlights the British strategy of exploiting local leaders for their imperialistic goals.
• Robert Clive’s Role
  • Known as the architect of British power in India, Robert Clive used manipulation and alliances with local leaders like Mir Jafar to expand British influence.
  • His victory at Plassey earned him immense wealth and recognition, though his actions were controversial even in Britain.