The Governor-General of India was the representative of the British monarch in India during the British colonial period. This position was established in 1858 after the British Crown took control of India from the East India Company. The Governor-General had significant powers, including overseeing the administration, military, and foreign affairs of British India. The role of the Governor-General evolved over time, with notable figures such as Lord Canning and Lord Mountbatten serving in this capacity. The position was abolished in 1947 when India gained independence, leading to the establishment of the President of India as the head of state.