British India refers to the period of British colonial rule over the Indian subcontinent from 1858 to 1947. It began after the British East India Company lost control following the Indian Rebellion of 1857, leading to direct governance by the British Crown. This era saw significant political, social, and economic changes, including the introduction of railways, telegraphs, and Western education. The territory of British India included present-day India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh. The struggle for independence gained momentum in the early 20th century, with leaders like Mahatma Gandhi advocating for non-violent resistance. British India officially ended in 1947, resulting in the partition of the subcontinent into two independent nations.