Role of Muslim Collaborators in Socio-Economic Transformation of District Gujrat During 1849-1947

Abstract

This article focuses on the role of Muslim collaborators in socio-economic and political transformation of district Gujrat under the British rule. It argues that the British government’s political control through ‘collaboration’ significantly influenced District Gujrat’s socio-economic transformation from 1849 to 1947. The cooperation of local elites was instrumental in strengthening the British control in Punjab. The case study draws on sources from Punjab Archives Lahore, district records, and official family documents. These sources highlight not only the significance of the District Gujrat in annexation of Punjab but also the role of local collaborators in establishing British rule.