Humanities and Arts
The Imperial Afterlife of Warren Hastings, 1818–1947
Alfie Banks
Abstract
This article examines the ‘afterlife’ or posthumous reputation of Warren Hastings, one of the most important and controversial figures in the foundation of British India. Exploring a wide range of sources, it argues that Hastings was a symbolic figure through which generations of imperial commentators vented the political and moral concerns of their own day. Accordingly, it uses his afterlife as a key indicator of the rise and fall of imperial sentiment and confidence in nineteenth- and early-twentieth-century Britain. Hastings’s afterlife can be divided into three distinct phases. In the first, between 1818 and 1890, the image of Hastings as a flawed hero – an empire-builder who committed crimes – was propelled into popular memory. In the second, between 1890 and 1915, Hastings was transformed into an untouchable imperial icon. Driven by contemporary concerns, a group of ex-Indian officials attempted to vindicate Hastings’s actions and exculpate his ‘crimes’. The third section explores the apotheosis of Hastings’s reputation amidst the growing uncertainty over the future of British India between 1915 and 1947. Following the elevation of a deeply controversial figure into an imperial hero, this article explores the methods and motivations behind the propagation of heroic reputations, demonstrating that our understanding of imperial figures has been mediated through the vagaries of contemporary politics.
Key Questions
What is the central theme of "The Imperial Afterlife of Warren Hastings, 1818–1947"?
The article examines the posthumous reputation and legacy of Warren Hastings, the first Governor-General of India, from his death in 1818 until Indian independence in 1947. It explores how Hastings' image was constructed, contested, and transformed within British imperial discourse during this period.
How did Warren Hastings' reputation evolve after his death?
Following his death, Hastings' reputation underwent significant changes. Initially celebrated as a key architect of British India, his legacy became a subject of debate, reflecting broader shifts in imperial attitudes and the reassessment of colonial figures in British history.
What factors influenced the changing perceptions of Hastings' legacy?
The evolving perceptions of Hastings were influenced by various factors, including political developments, cultural shifts, and changing views on imperialism. Debates over his actions and policies mirrored broader discussions about the morality and impact of British colonial rule.
How does the article contribute to our understanding of British imperial history?
By analyzing the "imperial afterlife" of Warren Hastings, the article sheds light on how historical figures are reinterpreted over time. It highlights the dynamic nature of historical memory and offers insights into the complexities of Britain's imperial past.
