British colonial rule in Assam from "summary" of A Comprehensive History of Assam by S. L. Baruah

This period of British rule was significant due to the economic, social, political and cultural changes which occurred in this region.

Although certain aspects of British rule brought positive outcomes, it also resulted in demographic changes like the influx of migrants from other parts of India and caused unrest within certain sections of the population due to administrative control.

British colonial rule in Assam began when the last Ahom king surrendered to them in 1826 and ended officially in 1947 with Indian independence from the British Raj.

During this time, the region underwent a huge transformation both socially and economically: forests were cleared for timber production, expansion of rail networks resulted in faster transport of crops and goods, tea plantations encouraged migration of workers while new laws and regulations gave legal protection to people as well as native lands.

Imperialism influenced the way individuals experienced and perceived their lives in various ways. Important topics such as gender roles, nationalism and advocacy were taken up during this period.

Colonial rule had two distinct phases- an initial one where the East India Company sought to maximize its financial gains, followed by a second phase post 1858 when there was greater emphasis on socio-cultural reforms.

Ultimately, British colonialism left in its wake a dominant legacy in the form of state politics and administration which encouraged the establishment of governance over large tracts of land.

The introduction of modern education systems, legal structures, taxation systems and land reform led to increased investment opportunities and generated jobs for locals.