ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Indian auxiliaries

Okay kiddo, so you know how some people in a game or a sports team help out the main players? That's kind of what Indian auxiliaries were.

A long time ago, when different countries were exploring, trading, and fighting with each other, some Indian soldiers or warriors would help out European countries like France, Britain, or Portugal. These soldiers were called Indian auxiliaries.

Now, Indian auxiliaries were usually hired by the Europeans to help them fight battles, explore new territories, or maintain peace. They were **very good** at what they did, which is why the Europeans wanted their help.

But why did the Indians help the Europeans? Well, sometimes they did it for money or rewards, or to get better weapons or goods from the Europeans. Other times, they did it because they saw it as a way to gain power or influence in their own region or tribe.

Some Indian auxiliaries were also used to communicate with the local people, as they spoke different languages and had a better understanding of the culture (just like how you might need a translator when you go on a trip to a foreign country).

Overall, Indian auxiliaries were important in history, as they helped shape the relationships between India and other countries, and also played a key role in many battles and expeditions.