Thomas Babington Macaulay's "Warren Hastings" is a critical and historical essay published in the Edinburgh Review in 1841, focusing on the life and legacy of the controversial British colonial governor-general of Bengal, Warren Hastings.
Here's a more detailed overview:
Context:
The essay was written during a period of intense public debate surrounding Hastings's actions and policies in India, particularly his controversial financial dealings and alleged corruption.
Macaulay's Perspective:
Macaulay, a prominent historian and political figure, took a strongly critical stance towards Hastings, arguing that he was a man of great talent but also of questionable morality, who had abused his power for personal gain.
Key Arguments:
Macaulay's essay explored various aspects of Hastings's career, including his military campaigns, his financial policies, and his dealings with Indian rulers. He argued that Hastings's actions had caused immense suffering to the Indian people and had undermined British rule in India.
Impeachment and Legacy:
The essay was written in the context of Hastings's impeachment proceedings in the British Parliament, where he was accused of corruption and tyranny. Macaulay's essay, while critical, also acknowledged Hastings's brilliance and his role in shaping the British presence in India.
Significance:
"Warren Hastings" is considered one of Macaulay's most important essays, and it remains a landmark work of historical analysis and political commentary. It offers insights into the complexities of British colonialism in India and the challenges of governing a vast and diverse empire.

by Lord Macaulay; edited for high school use, with introductions, notes, etc. by G. Mercer Adam and George Dickson

Thomas Babington Macaulay Macaulay, Baron; G Mercer Adam; George Dickson

Canadian Institute for Historical Microreproductions

ICMH

CIHM/ICMH Microfiche series = CIHM/ICMH collection de microfiches -- no. 09371, CIHM/ICMH microfiche series -- no. 09371, Toronto, Ontario, 1911

CIHM/ICMH microfiche series -- no. 09371, Toronto, Ontario, 1980

CIHM/ICMH collection de microfiches, no. 09371, Toronto, 1890

CIHM/ICMH microfiche series, no. 09371, Toronto, 1890

Canada - English Language, Canada

"To which is appended notes on composition, including a classification of the technical characteristics of literary style, etc., and an outline of the plot of Scott's Ivanhoe, with a list of its chief personnages, etc."
Scott's Ivanhoe not included with this copy.
Filmed from a copy of the original publication held by the National Library of Canada. Ottawa : Canadian Institute for Historical Microreproductions, 1980.