Who was the first European to initiate the policy of taking part in the quarrels of Indian Princes with a view to acquiring territories?

Key Fact(s)

Joseph François Dupleix, the French Governor-General of Pondicherry, was the first European to systematically adopt the policy of interfering in the succession disputes of Indian rulers. He realized that political control could be achieved more effectively through diplomacy and alliances rather than direct conquest.

During the Second Carnatic War, Dupleix supported Indian claimants like Muzaffar Jang in Hyderabad and Chanda Sahib in the Carnatic. In return, the French gained territorial rewards, trading privileges, and political leverage. This policy marked a shift from pure trade to imperial ambition. Although Dupleix ultimately failed due to British opposition, his strategy was later successfully adopted by the British, especially under Lord Wellesley.