Second Anglo-Sikh War (1848-1849):

Causes:

• Dissatisfaction within the Sikh Army: Discontentment among the Sikh army, particularly the Khalsa, grew due to the loss of territory and perceived British interference in Sikh affairs.
• Political Turmoil: Following the Treaty of Lahore, political instability and power struggles emerged within the Sikh Empire, leading to the overthrow of Maharaja Sher Singh and the rise of his rival, Maharaja Duleep Singh.

A Course of the War:

1. Revolt in Punjab: In April 1848, a revolt broke out in Punjab led by Sikh sardars (chiefs) against the British-backed government of Maharaja Duleep Singh. The revolt gained momentum, and the Sikh forces started challenging British authority.
2. British Counter-Offensive: The British responded with a counter-offensive and launched military operations to suppress the rebellion. British forces, under the command of Sir Hugh Gough and Sir Henry Lawrence, engaged in a series of battles with the Sikh army.
3. Battle of Chillianwala: The Battle of Chillianwala, fought in January 1849, was a major engagement during the war. The battle resulted in heavy casualties for both sides and ended inconclusively.
4. Battle of Gujrat: The decisive battle of the war took place in February 1849 near Gujrat. The British, under the command of Sir Hugh Gough, defeated the Sikh forces led by Sher Singh and secured a decisive victory.
5. Annexation of Punjab: After the Battle of Gujrat, the Sikh resistance collapsed, and Punjab was annexed by the British. Maharaja Duleep Singh was deposed, and the Sikh Empire ceased to exist.

Consequences:

• British Rule over Punjab: The Anglo-Sikh Wars led to the annexation of Punjab, and the region came under direct British administration. The British established a new administration, known as the Punjab Province, and introduced reforms in governance and administration.
• Transformation of Sikh Society: The defeat in the wars had a profound impact on the Sikh community. The Khalsa, a key institution of the Sikh religion, was disbanded by the British, and Sikh religious and political leadership underwent significant changes.
• British Consolidation of Power: The annexation of Punjab marked a major step in the consolidation of British power over the Indian subcontinent. It provided the British with significant territory, resources, and access to the northwest frontier.
• Socioeconomic Changes: The British introduced administrative reforms and infrastructure development in Punjab, including the construction of roads, canals, and railway lines. These initiatives brought about socioeconomic changes in the region.

The Anglo-Sikh Wars were significant turning points in the history of the Punjab and the Indian subcontinent. They led to the end of Sikh sovereignty, the expansion of British control, and the eventual establishment of British colonial rule in India.