Question

Discuss England’s policy of colonialism in Asia-Bhutan

Hint:

The British employed various strategies to control neighboring regions like Nepal, Sikkim, and Bhutan, balancing between direct colonial rule and indirect influence through protectorates and treaties.

Answer 1

Bhutan’s relationship with British colonialism was shaped by its location between British India and Tibet. The British first intervened in Bhutan’s affairs in the early 19th century due to concerns over trade routes and strategic interests. Following the Bhutan War (1864-1865), the British forced Bhutan to cede some territories and accept British suzerainty. Bhutan remained an autonomous kingdom under British influence until India’s independence in 1947, after which Bhutan became an independent kingdom with close relations to India.