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A #thread on Col Tod, the famed historian on Rajput history. His work 'Annals & Antiquities of Rajasthan' is an important reference for beginners to Rajput history.

In this thread, we look at the background of his anti-Maratha atrocity literature.

#Decolonisation #History

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1799: After a Training course at Royal Military Academy in Woolwich, Tod proceeded to Bengal.

1800, Jan 9: Tod posted as a cadet to the second European Regiment at Kolkata. [ This was the period sometime before the 2nd Anglo-Maratha War (1803-5) ]

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1803-5: Anglo-Maratha War; British victory

1805: Tod assisted the British Resident (diplomat) at Scindia's court.

In the next ~8-9 years, Tod was constantly on the move through Malwa & Rajputana. He gained immense information on its geography, history & politics.

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1815: Col Tod submitted a map of Central India to Gov-Gen. Hastings. This map became a crucial strategic tool in the British campaigns against the Marathas that had begun in 1814.

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In 1814–15, the British continued operations against the Marathas. ̣Tod's map, his personal geographical, historical knowledge, and current condition of the Marathas & associated groups ̣proved immediately invaluable.