Question

Why were the British so keen to acquire Awadh? Explain.

Hint:

While analyzing the policies of the British always focus on their economic and political motives, and how these two influenced their territorial ambitions.

Answer 1

Fertile Land and Agriculture: Awadh was a very fertile land and was rich in agricultural productivity. This made it a highly attractive area for the British to control. 
Indigo and Cotton Production: The region was ideal for the production of indigo and cotton, both of which were highly sought after in the world market. 
Principal Market of Upper India: Awadh was also developing as a major market in upper India, which made it attractive for the British who saw it as a strategically important region. 
Territorial Annexation: By the 1850s the British had conquered almost the entire subcontinent and the annexation of Awadh was important in this context, for the completion of their territorial ambitions. 
Heart of North India: Awadh was also described as the heart of north India, thus making it a strategically very valuable region for them to control.
Access to Army Personnel: The region could provide a pool of young men who could be recruited in the army, as British were constantly looking to recruit soldiers. 
Annexation of Awadh: This made the British keen to annex Awadh. 
Other Relevant Point: Any other valid point from the chapter.