The trial of Warren Hastings, former governor general of Bengal, was a seminal moment in late-18th century politics. This collection re-examines this notorious impeachment, in which Hastings was accused of a variety of abuses against the local population, to offer insights into British and Indian attitudes to law, governance and colonization during British imperial rule.

Showing how Hastings attracted both spirited support and passionate opponents, The Great Impeachment highlights the various contemporary responses to his trial, and traces how interest and popular opinion waxed and waned over time. Also exploring the wider repercussions of the trial, from its impact on the failed East India Bill and how it reflected on colonial governance, to its depiction in and contribution to popular culture and literature, this book delves into new aspects of this seminal moment in 18th century politics to offer a more complete account of the trial and its outcomes, and put forth fresh perspectives on law, governance and empire in colonial India.

Robin Eagles is the Editor of the House of Lords (1660-1832) section at the History of Parliament Trust, UK. He has written extensively on parliament and politics in the 17th and 18th centuries, including co-edited volumes on the major 17th-century politician, Henry Bennet, earl of Arlington and the role of scribal news in reporting Parliament. He is also the author of a biography of the radical MP John Wilkes (2024).

Chris Monaghan is a Principal Lecturer in Law at the University of Worcester, UK. He has published on impeachment, the UK constitution and is a Fellow of the Royal Historical Society. He has recently edited a volume on the Leading Works in Constitutional History.