The British East India Company, also known as the Honorable East India Company, had several chairpersons during its existence. Here is a list of some notable chairpersons:
- Sir Thomas Smythe (1600-1620): He was the first Governor and Treasurer of the East India Company, which later became the position of chairman. He played a crucial role in the early establishment of the company and its trade ventures.
- Sir Thomas Roe (1623-1638): Roe served as the chairman of the East India Company and was an important diplomat. He was sent as an ambassador to the Mughal Empire, where he negotiated trade agreements and established diplomatic relations.
- Sir Josiah Child (1677-1690): Child was a prominent merchant and served as the chairman of the East India Company. He played a significant role in shaping the company’s policies and expanding its trade in India.
- Sir Edward Harrison (1704-1711): Harrison was a leading figure in the East India Company and served as its chairman during the early 18th century. He oversaw the company’s affairs and policies during a period of significant expansion and trade growth.
- Sir Robert Clive (1763-1767): Clive, also known as Clive of India, was a military officer and statesman who played a pivotal role in establishing British dominance in India. He served as the chairman of the East India Company and was instrumental in securing British interests in Bengal.
- Warren Hastings (1774-1785): Hastings served as the Governor-General of Bengal and also held the position of chairman of the East India Company during his tenure. He implemented significant administrative reforms and policies in British India.
- Lord Cornwallis (1786-1793): Cornwallis, a prominent British military officer and administrator, served as the chairman of the East India Company. He introduced important legal and administrative reforms in India, including the Cornwallis Code.
- Sir George Staunton (1801-1806): Staunton was a politician and diplomat who held the position of chairman of the East India Company. He had significant involvement in the company’s trade and diplomatic relations with China.
It’s important to note that the chairmanship of the East India Company often overlapped with other roles and positions held by these individuals, reflecting the intertwined nature of political, military, and commercial affairs during the company’s reign.