Indian History·Key Changes
Anglo-Sikh Wars — Key Changes
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Version 1Updated 8 Mar 2026
| Entry | Year | Description | Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| N/A (Administrative Change) | 1846 | Establishment of a British Resident at Lahore under the Treaty of Lahore, followed by the formation of a Council of Regency under the Resident's control by the Treaty of Bhyroval. This marked the formal imposition of British administrative oversight. | Significantly eroded Sikh sovereignty, placing the administration of Punjab under de facto British control and fueling resentment among the Sikh populace and aristocracy. |
| N/A (Administrative Change) | 1849 | After the annexation of Punjab, a Board of Administration was established to govern the newly acquired territory. This board initially comprised Sir Henry Lawrence, John Lawrence, and Charles Mansel, tasked with consolidating British rule. | Introduced a 'non-regulation system' of administration in Punjab, characterized by a more direct and flexible approach, focusing on law and order, infrastructure, and revenue collection. This system proved effective in integrating Punjab into British India and maintaining peace. |
| N/A (Administrative Change) | 1853 | The Board of Administration was abolished, and Punjab was placed under a Chief Commissioner, with John Lawrence becoming the first Chief Commissioner. | Streamlined the administration, centralizing authority and further consolidating British control. This move reflected the British confidence in their hold over Punjab and the success of the 'non-regulation' system. |