Answer: 

The Battle of Plassey (1757) and the Battle of Buxar (1764) were crucial events that paved the way for the expansion and consolidation of the British Empire in India. While the Battle of Plassey marked the initial steps towards British dominance in the Indian subcontinent, the Battle of Buxar solidified their control over vast territories.

The significance of the Battle of Plassey (1757):

• Establishment of British Influence: The Battle of Plassey was a significant turning point that marked the establishment of British influence in Bengal. It resulted in a decisive victory for the British East India Company, led by Robert Clive, over the Nawab of Bengal, Siraj-ud-Daulah.
• Economic Control: Following Plassey, the British secured favorable trading rights and privileges in Bengal. They gained control over the lucrative Bengal economy, which included the collection of taxes, trade, and agricultural resources.
• Political Influence: The battle weakened the Nawab's position and allowed the British to manipulate the political affairs of Bengal. They were able to establish a puppet Nawab, Mir Jafar, who was more compliant with British interests.
• Economic Gain: The revenues and resources extracted from Bengal were crucial in financing the operations of the British East India Company in India. These economic gains played a significant role in strengthening the British position.

The significance of Battle of Buxar(1764):

The Battle of Buxar took place on 22 October 1764 between the forces commanded by the British East India Company, led by Hector Munro, and the combined armies of Mir Qasim, the former Nawab of Bengal; the Nawab of Awadh; and the Mughal Emperor Shah Alam II. This battle marked a significant turning point in Indian history.

• Treaty of Allahabad (1765): After their victory at Buxar, the British negotiated the Treaty of Allahabad with the Mughal Emperor and the Nawabs. Under this treaty, the British secured the Diwani rights, which allowed them to collect revenue and administer the acquired territories. This essentially marked the beginning of British direct rule in India.
• Symbolic Victory: Unlike the battle of Plassey, which was more of a British conspiracy, the Battle of Buxar was a full-fledged war that showcased British prowess in warfare. It marked the defeat of the Great Mughal House, establishing the British troops as one of the potent forces in the Indian subcontinent.
• Economic Avenues: The Treaty of Allahabad granted the British East India Company the right to collect revenue from the eastern province of Bengal. This newfound economic resource strengthened the company's army, a vital component in its territorial conquest goals. The balance of payment shifted in favor of the British, enabling them to finance their trade from the revenue generated from Bengal, Orissa, and Bihar.
• Expansionist Motives: The British victory at Buxar eliminated significant challenges to their dominance in the eastern part of India. The defeat of the Nawab of Awadh created a buffer state that acted as a barrier between the British and the Marathas.
• Political Stronghold: Following the Treaty of Allahabad, Robert Clive established the infamous dual system of administration in Bengal. Under this system, the Company gained control of both revenue (Diwani) and civil administration (nizamat) functions, consolidating its power without bearing responsibility. This led to confusion, anarchy, and economic exploitation of India.
• Residents in the Indian States: Post-Battle of Buxar, the Company appointed Residents in Indian states. These individuals served as political or commercial agents and furthered the Company's interests by interfering in the internal affairs of these states. This policy later evolved into the Subsidiary Alliance under Lord Wellesley.

The Battle of Buxar significantly enhanced the power of the East India Company, extending its jurisdiction beyond Bengal. It paved the way for the Company's active involvement in Indian politics and the eventual establishment of the British Empire in India. In the words of Sir James Stephen, "the Battle of Buxar deserves far more credit than the battle of Plassey as the origin of the British power in India."