The Seven Years’ Devastation refers to the period of Burmese occupation of Manipur from 1755 to 1762. The Burmese invaded Manipur in 1755 and sacked the capital city of Imphal. The Manipuris were forced to flee their homes and many were killed or enslaved. The Burmese occupation lasted for seven years and caused widespread devastation in Manipur. The economy was ruined, the infrastructure was destroyed, and the population was decimated. The Manipuris were finally able to drive the Burmese out in 1762, but the damage had been done. The Seven Years’ Devastation was a dark period in Manipuri history and its effects are still felt today.
The other options are incorrect because:
- Internal conflicts within Manipur did not cause the Seven Years’ Devastation. The Burmese invasion was a foreign invasion and not the result of internal conflict.
- Natural disasters and famine did not cause the Seven Years’ Devastation. The Burmese invasion was the primary cause of the devastation.
- British influence in Manipur did not cause the Seven Years’ Devastation. The Burmese invasion occurred before the British had any significant influence in Manipur.