Question
Which of the following is the best definition of indirect rule? Select one: a. To govern a territory by relying on existing rulers, political structures, and institutions to handle day-to-day government decisions. b. When one country takes over another country or region without permission. c. To govern a territory by replacing the existing rulers and institutions with officials and policies from the colonial government. d. A country keeps its own government, but takes advice from an outside power.
Solution
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AlexVeteran · Tutor for 10 years
Answer
The best definition of indirect rule is **a. To govern a territory by relying on existing rulers, political structures, and institutions to handle day-to-day government decisions.**<br /><br />Indirect rule was a colonial strategy employed primarily by the British, though other European powers used similar systems at times. It aimed to minimize administrative costs and disruption by utilizing pre-existing local power structures. While the colonial power maintained ultimate authority, local rulers acted as intermediaries, implementing policies and collecting taxes.<br /><br />Option b describes colonialism or imperialism in general, not specifically indirect rule. Option c describes direct rule, the opposite of indirect rule. Option d describes a protectorate, which is a different type of relationship between countries.<br />
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