Discuss the role of Mountbatten in the partition of the South Asian subcontinent in 1947.

Candidates will offer a considered and balanced review of Mountbatten’s role in the partition of the South Asian subcontinent that includes a range of arguments and factors. Candidates may adopt a chronological approach that contextualizes the issue of partition and outlines Mountbatten’s involvement. Alternatively, candidates may choose a thematic approach and balance Mountbatten’s role against other aspects such as the actions of Wavell, the British government’s expectations, the demands of the Indian National Congress and the All India Muslim League, the contributions of Indian nationalist leaders such as Nehru, Gandhi and Jinnah, the needs of the princely states and the various proposals.