The Strategic Alliance of the Marathas with the British Against Mysore

The Maratha Empire's support of the British against the Kingdom of Mysore in the late 18th century was a complex decision driven by a combination of strategic, political, and short-term gain considerations. While the Marathas viewed the British as a potential ally to counter a formidable common enemy, internal strife within the empire made it difficult to confront Mysore independently. This alliance proved to be both a necessary step and a double-edged sword, ultimately leading to the Marathas' downfall.

Strategic Motivations for the Maratha-English Alliance

The primary driver behind the Marathas' alliance with the British was the longstanding rivalry with the Kingdom of Mysore, particularly under the leadership of Tipu Sultan. Tipu Sultan was seen as a formidable opponent, and the Marathas sought an alliance to counter his growing power. Historical records, such as those highlighted by Nizam of Hyderabad, suggest a preference for alliances with powerful entities to maintain influence. The Nizam's support for the British was driven by the desire to gain support and maintain influence, even if it meant a short-term compromise with a rival.

Internal Instability and External Threats

During the late 18th century, the Maratha Empire was experiencing internal strife and fragmentation. Internal strife made it difficult for the Marathas to confront external threats independently. Aligning with the British provided a perceived strategic advantage in countering the rising power of Mysore. Additionally, the British East India Company was adept at forming alliances to further its interests in India. The Maratha leaders likely believed that an alliance with the British would help them regain territories and strengthen their position in the region.

Short-Term Gains and Misjudgment of British Intentions

The Maratha support of the British was also motivated by the desire for short-term military success against Mysore. By forming an alliance, they hoped to secure favorable terms and territorial advantages. However, some historians argue that the Marathas may not have fully understood the British long-term ambitions in India. While there were suspicions about British loyalty, the immediate threat posed by Mysore often overshadowed these concerns.

Realities of the Alliance and Its Consequences

The alliance proved to be a double-edged sword. While it resulted in immediate military successes, the long-term consequences were detrimental to the Marathas. The British expanded their control over India in the years that followed, often at the expense of their former allies, including the Marathas. Historians such as Jadunath Sarkar provide critical insights into this period, emphasizing the complex nature of the alliance and its eventual negative impact.

Support from Common People and Historical Context

The support for the British was not universal among the Maratha people. They often faced resistance and even revolt due to their history of oppressive and exploitative rule. Examples include the Battle of Koregaon, where the British used Mahars to defeat the Peshwas, and the massacre of over 1,500 Maratha soldiers in Jaipur. Such incidents highlight the growing discontent among the common people and the internal strife within the Maratha leadership.

Legacy of the Maratha-Put Sour Relationship

The alliance with the British was not just a strategic move but also a recognition of the Maratha's waning influence. The legacy of the Maratha-Put Sour (Put Sakhya) relationship, as seen in the restoration of Shahuji after his arrest, paints a picture of the Maratha leadership's dependence on external powers. The later period under the Peshwas saw a significant shift, with the Peshwas taking more power and control, often at the expense of the Maratha leadership.

Conclusion

The Maratha support of the British against Mysore was a strategic decision driven by a combination of immediate military needs and short-term gains. While it provided a temporary advantage, the long-term consequences were detrimental to the Maratha Empire. The alliance with the British and later the British Empire ultimately led to the Marathas' downfall, a reality that the common people and historians have consistently highlighted. Understanding this period provides valuable insight into the complex dynamics of power and influence in 18th-century India.