British Rule in Himachal Pradesh

Beginning of the British Rule in Himachal Pradesh took place in 1858. During the Mutiny of 1857, the otherwise non-violent inhabitants of the place did not participate in the movement. Some of the then rulers even assisted the British Empire. This led to prosperity of some of the parts in later stages. On remaining loyal to the British kingdom, the people of Himachal Pradesh achieved the trust of Queen Victoria, who declared Himachal Pradesh as one of her dominions in 1858.

The Revolt of 1857, which was one of the pioneering protests of the freedom fighters against the Britishers, did not mark any kind of contribution from the people of the place. However, the ruler of Bushahr was one such person who diligently supported the great Movement.

The entire British Rule of Himachal Pradesh lasted from 1858 to 1914. During all these years some of the states emerged as prime symbols of economic affluence. Bilaspur, Chamba and Mandi were the places that gained significant recognition in the ruling period of the Queen.

From socio-cultural development to administrative set up, every single domain of Himachal Pradesh gained a new functional identity in the British rule. Barring the only state which was on the side of Indian freedom strugglers, all other states reached to a thriving height of success.

Before the commencement of the First World War, Himachal Pradesh became one of the vital places from where a major number of states started assisting the British Rule. Sending all possible kinds of monetary aids and human resources, the states of Suket, Bilaspur, Mandi, Chamba, Siba, Kangra and Nurpur proved their obedience towards Her Highness.

Till 1914 Himachal Pradesh prevailed as one of the crowning glory of the British rule.