The Impeachment of the First Governor General of India

This book examines the notorious impeachment trial of former governor of Bengal, Warren Hastings, to offer new perspectives on law, governance and empire in colonial India.

The trial of Warren Hastings, former governor general of Bengal, was a seminal moment in late-18th century politics. This collection re-examines this notorious impeachment, in which Hastings was accused of a variety of abuses against the local population, to offer insights into British and Indian attitudes to law, governance and colonization during British imperial rule.

Showing how Hastings attracted both spirited support and passionate opponents, The Great Impeachment highlights the various contemporary responses to his trial, and traces how interest and popular opinion waxed and waned over time. Also exploring the wider repercussions of the trial, from its impact on the failed East India Bill and how it reflected on colonial governance, to its depiction in and contribution to popular culture and literature, this book delves into new aspects of this seminal moment in 18th century politics to offer a more complete account of the trial and its outcomes, and put forth fresh perspectives on law, governance and empire in colonial India.