Second Sikh War

The Sikh Wars were two conflicts fought between the Sikhs and the British in 1845–46 and 1848–49. These wars resulted in the British conquering and annexing the Punjab region of northwestern India.12

The first war was triggered by mutual distrust and the Sikh army's instability after the death of Maharaja Ranjit Singh. The Sikhs crossed the Sutlej River in December 1845 but were defeated in several battles. The British annexed Sikh territories and stationed a resident in Lahore.1

The Second Sikh War began in April 1848 with a revolt in Multan. It escalated into a national uprising when the Sikh army joined the rebels. After indecisive battles, the British secured a final victory at Gujrat in February 1849, leading to the Sikh army's surrender and the annexation of the Punjab.12