regional languages and a Portuguese patois. Pringle was
followed by Ralph Orde in 1677 and his Commission stated
that he was to teach the children to read and write in
English and to instruct them in Christianity. Orde's
Commission is the first record made which linked English
and Christianity in Anglo-Indian education. (22)
The expansionist policy of the English demanded a more
literate and efficient work force. The education they
provided would enable the Anglo-Indians to understand
English culture. As a result, it was hoped, in their
"manners, habits and affections" the Anglo-Indians would
become more like the English. That would make it possible
for them to offer their services as soldiers, sailors and
servants .
This, it was claimed, would be a
considerable benefit to the British
interests in India.
The final result of the Christian, English education would
be of
. . . advantage to this kingdom, intending to
give stability to the settlements. (23)
The Jknglo-Indians were being educated to support the
expansionist policies of the East India Company in India.
Their subordinate class consciousness within a culturally
loaded curriculum was being firmly planted as early as the
seventeenth century. This policy continued in the
eighteenth century as will be discussed in the next
section.
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