What was Indirect control?

Indirect control is a colonial administration strategy where foreign powers manage a territory through local rulers or authorities, rather than directly governing it. This method allows colonizers to maintain control while minimizing administrative costs and resistance, as local leaders retain some degree of authority and influence. Indirect control often aimed to create a sense of legitimacy and continuity in governance, relying on existing power structures to implement colonial policies. It was commonly used by European powers in Africa and Asia during the age of Imperialism.