In the context of the Battle of Plassey in seventeen fifty seven, which factor contributed most significantly to Robert Clive's victory over Nawab Siraj ud Daulah?

Introduction / Context:
The Battle of Plassey, fought in seventeen fifty seven, is a turning point in Indian history because it marked the beginning of effective British political dominance in Bengal. Understanding why the much smaller British force under Robert Clive defeated Nawab Siraj ud Daulah is important for exams on modern Indian history. This question asks which factor was the most decisive in that victory.

Given Data / Assumptions:

- The battle was fought between the forces of the British East India Company and those of Nawab Siraj ud Daulah of Bengal.

- Mir Jafar was one of the Nawab's commanders and also a key conspirator in a plot against the Nawab.

- Several factors such as battlefield leadership, casualties, and treachery influenced the outcome, but one factor stands out as crucial.

Concept / Approach:
Historians generally agree that the result of the Battle of Plassey was decided less by open combat and more by betrayal within the Nawab's camp. Mir Jafar and other conspirators secretly reached an understanding with the British and did not effectively support the Nawab during battle. This treachery ensured that a large part of the Nawab's army remained passive or ineffective. While Clive showed leadership and some loyal commanders fought bravely, it was Mir Jafar's betrayal that truly tilted the outcome.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Recall that Mir Jafar had ambitions to become Nawab and entered into a conspiracy with the British before the battle. Step 2: Understand that Mir Jafar promised support to the British in return for being made Nawab after Siraj ud Daulah was removed. Step 3: During the battle, Mir Jafar and his contingent did not actively support Siraj ud Daulah, weakening the Nawab's position. Step 4: The death of Mir Madan and other events did affect the morale of the Nawab's troops but were not as decisive as active treachery. Step 5: Recognise that Clive's leadership and the skill of officers such as Kilpatrick mattered, yet they would likely not have been enough without the betrayal within the Nawab's camp. Step 6: Conclude that the treachery and secret understanding of Mir Jafar was the main reason for British victory.

Verification / Alternative check:
Standard textbooks on modern Indian history and detailed accounts of the Battle of Plassey consistently emphasise the role of treachery. They describe how Mir Jafar and other commanders withheld their forces at crucial moments and how this lack of support caused the Nawab's line to collapse. These sources frequently describe the battle as being decided more in the tent of conspirators than on the battlefield. Such consistent interpretation supports the conclusion that Mir Jafar's betrayal was the key factor.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
The death of Mir Madan, a loyal commander of the Nawab, was important but only one among many events and did not by itself ensure British victory. The personal bravery of Clive played a role, yet battles in that era often turned on alliances and internal loyalty. The military skill of British officers, including Kilpatrick, helped in executing tactics but could not fully compensate for a united and loyal opposing force. None of these factors match the game changing effect of Mir Jafar's treachery.

Common Pitfalls:
Some students are impressed by Clive's reputation and assume that his courage alone explains the victory. Others may focus on battlefield deaths or technical skill without considering political intrigue. The lesson from Plassey is that betrayal within leadership can be more decisive than straightforward military factors. Remembering this helps avoid choosing options that focus only on bravery or skill and instead points toward the central role of Mir Jafar.

Final Answer:
The factor that contributed most to Clive's victory at the Battle of Plassey was the treachery and secret understanding of Mir Jafar.