The British Raj: Resistance and Reform in India, 1879–1920 - Key Data

Containing over 43,000 images, The British Raj: Resistance and Reform in India, 1879–1920, comprises diaries, letters, and official papers. The sources relate to two viceroys who acted as representatives of the British monarch in India: Lord George Curzon and the fourth Earl of Minto, Gilbert Elliot-Murray-Kynynmound. Curzon served as viceroy between 1899 and 1905. He was succeeded by the earl, who served until 1910. 

The material relating to Curzon illustrates the influential reforms that he enacted during his time as viceroy. Curzon made substantial modifications to the administration and infrastructure of the British Raj. Despite his passion for reform, he remains a controversial figure—it has been asserted that he prioritised British control and influence over the needs and demands of the Indian population. Arguably, one of his most contentious acts was the partition of Bengal in 1905, a measure that exacerbated religious divisions within the region. 

The material relating to the fourth Earl of Minto likewise evidences his efforts to maintain British influence throughout India during his time as viceroy. His tenure was characterised by cautious reform, as he sought to address the rising tide of Indian nationalism whilst maintaining British supremacy. The sources in this collection include his diaries and personal correspondence. The collection also includes the diaries of his wife, Lady Mary Caroline Grey. These sources allude to growing anti-British sentiment amongst India’s population during the opening decade of the twentieth century and evidence how the viceroy responded.

The collection is accompanied by an online guide written by Professor WiIliam Gould (University of Leeds).