How did war and militarization impact the formation of the Mysore revenue system? Elaborate.

The Mysore revenue system underwent significant changes due to the impact of war and militarization during the rule of Tipu Sultan in the late 18th century. Tipu Sultan, also known as the Tiger of Mysore, implemented reforms to strengthen the state's financial structure and support his military campaigns against the British and other adversaries.

War and Military Expenditure:
The incessant conflicts between the Mysorean state and external powers, particularly the British East India Company, necessitated a robust revenue system to fund the military apparatus. Tipu Sultan, recognizing the importance of a well-funded military, undertook measures to enhance revenue collection and manage the economic resources of the state effectively.

1. Land Revenue System:
Tipu Sultan implemented changes in the land revenue system to ensure a stable source of income for the state. The traditional land revenue system, often based on shares of the crop, underwent modifications to a cash-based system. This shift aimed at providing a more predictable and regular income stream, crucial for sustaining a standing army and financing military campaigns.

2. Economic Reforms:
Tipu Sultan initiated economic reforms to increase the productivity of agricultural lands. He introduced measures to improve irrigation systems, promote cash crops, and encourage agricultural innovation. The objective was to augment agricultural output, thereby boosting state revenues. The emphasis on economic development was intertwined with the need for financial resources to support military endeavors.

3. State Control over Resources:
The exigencies of war led to an increased centralization of power in the Mysorean state. Tipu Sultan sought greater control over economic resources, including land and trade, to ensure a steady flow of revenue for military purposes. State monopolies were established on certain commodities, contributing to the state's fiscal stability.

4. Taxation Reforms:
Tipu Sultan introduced reforms in taxation to optimize revenue collection. He rationalized and standardized taxes, ensuring equitable distribution of the tax burden. The revenue generated from these taxes played a vital role in sustaining the military machinery.

5. State Intervention in Trade:
To finance military campaigns and reduce dependence on external trade, Tipu Sultan increased state intervention in trade activities. He established state-controlled trading companies and monopolies on key commodities, allowing the state to regulate and profit from trade transactions.

Impact on the Revenue System:
The impact of war and militarization on the Mysore revenue system was profound. The reforms undertaken by Tipu Sultan aimed at creating a more efficient and centralized revenue structure capable of supporting a formidable military force. However, the success of these reforms was contingent on the outcomes of military conflicts.

Evaluation of Success:
While Tipu Sultan's revenue reforms contributed to the financial stability of the Mysorean state, the ultimate success of these measures depended on the military outcomes. The Anglo-Mysore Wars, particularly the defeat of Tipu Sultan by the British in the Fourth Anglo-Mysore War (1798-1799), had a significant impact on the fate of the revenue system. The subsequent Treaty of Seringapatam in 1799 resulted in territorial losses for Mysore and further changes in the revenue structure under British control.

In conclusion, war and militarization deeply influenced the formation of the Mysore revenue system during Tipu Sultan's rule. The imperative to fund a robust military apparatus prompted reforms in land revenue, economic policies, taxation, and trade. While these measures enhanced the state's financial capabilities, the ultimate success of the revenue system was inseparable from the military fortunes of Mysore in its confrontations with external powers, particularly the British East India Company.