This article explores the three Anglo-Burmese Wars, their causes, and consequences, and the eventual annexation of Burma into British India.
Anglo-Burmese Relations: A Historical Overview
The Burma Wars (1824-1885) were a series of conflicts driven by territorial ambitions, imperial policies, and commercial interests. These wars shaped the British expansion in Southeast Asia and significantly influenced India's northeastern frontier, offering valuable insights for students of colonial history.
Burma Wars (1824-1885): British Expansion and Colonial Strategies in Southeast Asia
First Burma War (1824–1826): Causes and Treaty of Yandabo
Origins and Causes of the War
(i) Burmese expansion westward and occupation of Arakan and Manipur posed a threat to Assam and the Brahmaputra Valley.
(ii) British expeditionary forces captured Rangoon in May 1824, advancing 72 km from the Burmese capital at Ava.
Treaty of Yandabo (1826): Key Provisions
(i) Burma was required to pay one crore rupees as war indemnity.
(ii) Burma ceded the coastal provinces of Arakan and Tenasserim.
(iii) Burma renounced claims over Assam, Cachar, and Jaintia.
(iv) Manipur was recognized as an independent state.
(v) Burma agreed to negotiate a commercial treaty with Britain.
(vi) A British resident was posted at Ava, and a Burmese envoy was sent to Calcutta.
Second Burma War (1852): Commercial Interests and Imperial Objectives
Motivations and British Strategy
(i) The conflict was fueled by British commercial ambitions and imperialist policies under Lord Dalhousie.
(ii) British merchants sought dominance over upper Burma's timber resources and expanded market access.
(iii) Despite facing guerrilla resistance, Britain occupied Pegu and established control over lower Burma.
Third Burma War (1885): Annexation and the Rise of Nationalism
Causes and British Response
(i) The death of King Bhindan led to his son Thibaw ascending the throne and adopting a confrontational stance toward Britain.
(ii) Thibaw engaged in negotiations with rival powers and imposed fines on British commercial entities, prompting Lord Dufferin to order the invasion and annexation of upper Burma in 1885.
Burmese Resistance and Nationalist Movements
(i) Britain faced a strong guerrilla uprising and the emergence of a nationalist movement after World War I.
(ii) These movements culminated in Burma’s separation from India in 1935 and eventual independence on January 4, 1948, led by U Aung San.
