The Anglo-Sikh Wars were two conflicts fought between the British East India Company and the Sikh Empire in the 19th century. The first war occurred from 1845 to 1846, resulting in the British gaining control over the region of Punjab and establishing a protectorate over the Sikh state. The second war took place from 1848 to 1849, leading to the complete annexation of the Sikh Empire by the British. These wars significantly altered the political landscape of northern India and marked the beginning of direct British rule in the region.