Mysore and Hyderabad took different trajectories of state formation. Discuss.

Mysore and Hyderabad, two prominent princely states in South India, took different trajectories of state formation during the medieval and early modern periods. These trajectories were shaped by various historical, geopolitical, and cultural factors.

Mysore:

1. Early Foundations: The Kingdom of Mysore, under the rule of the Wodeyar dynasty, had its foundations in the medieval period. The region had a rich cultural and economic history, and its rulers initially served as vassals to larger empires like the Vijayanagara Empire.

2. Rise under Haider Ali and Tipu Sultan: The trajectory of Mysore took a significant turn under Haider Ali, who rose to prominence as a military commander. His son, Tipu Sultan, continued his efforts, expanding Mysorean influence through military campaigns against neighboring states. Tipu Sultan's encounters with the British East India Company, particularly during the Anglo-Mysore Wars, marked a crucial phase in Mysore's history.

3. Resistance to British Expansion: Tipu Sultan's resistance to British expansion earned him the title of the "Tiger of Mysore." However, after the defeat at the Battle of Seringapatam in 1799, Mysore became a princely state under indirect British control. The British restored the Wodeyar dynasty but exercised considerable influence over its administration.

4. Integration into British India: Mysore's trajectory of state formation ultimately led to its integration into British India. The princely state retained some degree of autonomy under the British Resident system, but its rulers were largely figureheads with limited political power. The Kingdom of Mysore continued to exist until the integration of princely states into the Indian Union in 1947.

Hyderabad:

1. Qutb Shahi and Asaf Jahi Periods: The state formation in Hyderabad has roots in the Qutb Shahi dynasty's rule over Golconda, and later, the establishment of the Asaf Jahi dynasty by the Mughals. The Nizams, who held the title of Asaf Jah, ruled Hyderabad as viceroys and later as de facto independent rulers.

2. Princely State Status: Hyderabad maintained a distinct trajectory as a princely state with significant autonomy throughout the British colonial period. The Nizams of Hyderabad managed to negotiate a subsidiary alliance with the British, ensuring the independence of their state to a considerable extent. Hyderabad became known for its wealth, cultural richness, and diverse population.

3. Integration into Independent India: The trajectory of Hyderabad took a dramatic turn with the end of British rule in India. The last Nizam, Mir Osman Ali Khan, initially sought independence for Hyderabad, leading to a tense situation known as the "Hyderabad Crisis." In 1948, the Indian government intervened militarily, and Hyderabad was integrated into the Indian Union.

Comparison:

1. Colonial Influence: While both Mysore and Hyderabad came under British influence, Mysore experienced more direct British control after the defeat of Tipu Sultan. In contrast, Hyderabad, with its strategic alliances and diplomatic maneuvers, maintained a higher degree of autonomy and negotiated treaties with the British.

2. Post-Independence Integration: Mysore smoothly integrated into the Indian Union in 1947, becoming a state within the newly formed Republic of India. Hyderabad's integration was more complex, involving military intervention due to the Nizam's reluctance to join the Indian Union.

3. Legacy: The trajectories of state formation left different legacies for Mysore and Hyderabad. Mysore, under the Wodeyars, retained cultural significance and contributed to the development of modern Karnataka. Hyderabad, with its historical prominence, became the capital of the newly formed state of Telangana and Andhra Pradesh after Independence.

In conclusion, the trajectories of state formation for Mysore and Hyderabad were shaped by their historical contexts, encounters with colonial powers, and the strategic decisions of their rulers. While Mysore faced more direct British control, Hyderabad managed to maintain a unique position as a princely state until its integration into independent India.