One of the most important reasons why India was considered a key geographical possession was the fact that the region produced many trade products that were highly in demand. These included coffee, spices and tea.
The Sepoy Rebellion was the event that motivated the British government to take over the direct rule of India. This uprising took place in India in 1857-58, and it was ultimately unsuccessful. The rebels were defeated in Gwalior on June 20, 1858.