Explanations:The role of Governor General of India was a significant position during the British colonial period and the immediate post-independence era. The Governor General was the representative of the British Crown and the head of the executive branch of the government in India. The position was held by several British officials until the transition to Indian independence in 1947.
After India gained independence on August 15, 1947, the role of Governor General continued for a brief period to oversee the transition and ensure a smooth handover of power. The last British Governor General was Lord Mountbatten, who served until June 1948. Following his tenure, the position was filled by an Indian, marking a significant shift in the governance of the country.
C. Rajagopalachari, often referred to as Rajaji, was appointed as the Governor General of India on June 21, 1948. He was a prominent Indian statesman, lawyer, and writer who played a crucial role in the Indian independence movement. Rajaji served in this position until January 26, 1950, when India adopted its constitution and became a republic. On this date, the role of Governor General was replaced by the President of India.
Rajaji's tenure as the Governor General was significant because he was the first and only Indian to hold this position. His appointment symbolized the transition of power from British colonial rule to an independent Indian government. Rajaji's role was to oversee the final stages of the transition and ensure that the new constitution was implemented effectively.
Understanding the historical context of the transition period is crucial to recognizing the significance of Rajaji's appointment. The other options listed in the question refer to British officials who held the position of Governor General or Viceroy during the colonial period, but they were not Indian and did not serve in the post-independence era.
Therefore, the correct answer is C. Rajagopalachari, who was the only Indian Governor General of India.