Clive, acclaimed as the founder of the Empire, was also its first administrative reformer, but his scheme of Salt monopoly was not approved by the Directors.
By a Regulating Act, Parliament hoped to control the Company's administration, but during Warren Hastings' term its ineffectiveness was clearly seen.
India was rapidly changing from medievalism. One of the first Indians to visit England, Raja Ram Mohan Roy championed the cause of the peasants and the freedom of the press besides other social reforms.
The rapid spread of Western culture caused a general ferment in the country which culminated in open revolt by the Army which was led by the Rani of Jhansi and others.
Delhi, Cawnpore, Gwalior and Lucknow were the storm centres of the Mutiny. Many heroic fights and defences took place. The defence of the Residency at Lucknow was a notable one.
