How did it set the stage for later British expansion? In what ways British control of India represent the best and worst of British rule?
When the British took over India, they turned it into a powerhouse. It became a large producer of extremely valuable trade goods such as Opium. They suppressed Indian beliefs and values and forced their own upon them. India shipped raw materials to the British and bought the British manufactured goods. India just fed the British everything they had.
Gandhi
The most influential impact on India and its ability to gain independence was Mahatma Gandhi. The name Mahatma, meaning Great Soul, was given to him by his people. He is considered one of the most remarkable leaders the world has ever known. He led by example, preaching nonviolence and wearing homespun clothes in attempt to weaken the British textile industry. He also orchestrated a march to the sea to protest the British monopoly on salt. The British finally relinquished control and left India on August 15, 1947. After the British left, violence erupted between Muslims and Hindu minorities. In only a few weeks half a million people had died. Gandhi then vowed to fast until the violence subsided and it did when his health was seriously threatened. The British returned to provide humnaitarian aid to India.