Explanation: Fort William College was a significant institution established in 1800 in Calcutta (now Kolkata) by Lord Wellesley, the Governor-General of India. The college was named after Fort William, a fortification in Calcutta that was built to protect the city from potential attacks. The primary purpose of Fort William College was to train civil servants and military officers of the East India Company, which was the British company that had a monopoly on trade with India and played a crucial role in the colonization of the subcontinent.
Lord Wellesley, who served as Governor-General of India from 1798 to 1805, was a key figure in the British colonial administration. He was known for his aggressive policies towards expanding British control in India, including the annexation of several Indian states. The establishment of Fort William College was part of his broader strategy to strengthen the East India Company's administrative and military capabilities.
The college was not just a training ground for civil servants and military officers but also played a significant role in the cultural and educational development of British India. It was a center for the study of Indian languages, literature, and culture, which helped the British administrators to better understand and govern the diverse Indian population. The college also contributed to the development of the Indian Civil Service, which became a crucial institution in the governance of British India.
It is important to note that the other options provided in the question are incorrect. Lord Cornwallis, while a significant figure in British India, is best known for his role in the establishment of the Permanent Settlement in 1793 and not for founding Fort William College. Lord Ellenborough, who served as Governor-General of India from 1841 to 1844, is known for his role in the First Anglo-Afghan War and the annexation of Sindh, which occurred long after the founding of Fort William College. The option "Lord Mekale" is not a historical figure in the context of British India and is likely a distractor.
In summary, Fort William College was a pivotal institution in the history of British India, founded by Lord Wellesley to train and educate the civil servants and military officers of the East India Company. Its establishment reflects the broader colonial strategy of the British to strengthen their administrative and military presence in India.