Explanations:The question pertains to the historical context of the British East India Company's military operations in India during the 18th century. Robert Clive, a key figure in the early expansion of British power in the Indian subcontinent, is the correct answer. Clive was a military leader and later a political administrator who played a significant role in the British conquest of Bengal and the subsequent consolidation of British power in India.
Robert Clive, often referred to as Clive of India, was born in 1725 and joined the British East India Company as a writer in Madras. He quickly rose through the ranks due to his military prowess and strategic acumen. In 1756, the Nawab of Bengal, Siraj-ud-Daulah, captured the British settlement at Calcutta. In response, the British forces from Madras, under the command of Robert Clive, were sent to retake Calcutta. Clive led the British forces to victory in the Battle of Plassey in 1757, which marked a significant turning point in the British conquest of India.
Clive's military campaigns and administrative reforms laid the foundation for British rule in India. He was appointed as the Governor of Bengal in 1757 and again in 1765, during which he implemented several administrative and economic reforms. His leadership and strategic decisions were crucial in establishing British dominance in the region.
Warren Hastings, another significant figure in the British East India Company, served as the Governor-General of Bengal from 1773 to 1785. He is known for his administrative reforms and the establishment of the Supreme Court in Calcutta. However, he did not command the forces sent from Madras to Calcutta, as this event occurred before his tenure.
General Waston was a British military officer who served under Robert Clive during the Battle of Plassey. He was a capable military leader but did not command the forces sent from Madras to Calcutta. His role was more supportive and tactical under Clive's overall command.
Lord Dalhousie, who served as the Governor-General of India from 1848 to 1856, is known for the Doctrine of Lapse, which allowed the British to annex princely states without a male heir. However, his tenure was much later than the events involving Robert Clive, and he did not command forces from Madras to Calcutta.
In summary, Robert Clive was the key military leader who commanded the forces sent from Madras to Calcutta, leading to significant victories and the expansion of British power in India. His leadership and strategic decisions were pivotal in the early stages of British colonialism in the Indian subcontinent.