How did Queen of UK got Kohinoor diamond?

 The Kohinoor diamond, one of the world's most famous gems, has a long and contentious history involving various rulers and empires. Here's how it came into the possession of the British Crown:

1. Origins and Early History : The diamond's origins are traced back to India, possibly mined from the Golconda region. It was mentioned in historical texts as far back as the 13th century. Over centuries, it changed hands among various Indian rulers, including the Mughals.
2. Nadir Shah's Conquest : In 1739, Nadir Shah, the Persian ruler, invaded Delhi and took the diamond as part of the spoils of war. After his assassination, the diamond passed through various Persian and Afghan rulers.
3. Sikh Rule : By the early 19th century, the diamond was in the possession of Maharaja Ranjit Singh, the founder of the Sikh Empire. Upon his death in 1839, the Sikh Empire weakened, leading to internal strife and eventually the Anglo-Sikh Wars.
4. British Acquisition :
   • First Anglo-Sikh War (1845-1846) : The British East India Company defeated the Sikh Empire, resulting in the Treaty of Lahore in 1846. This treaty did not involve the diamond directly but set the stage for further British influence.
   • Second Anglo-Sikh War (1848-1849) : The British decisively defeated the Sikhs, and the subsequent Treaty of Lahore in 1849 formally annexed the Punjab. As part of this treaty, the young Maharaja Duleep Singh, under the influence of the British, handed over the Kohinoor diamond to Queen Victoria.
5. Presentation to Queen Victoria : In 1850, the diamond was presented to Queen Victoria. It was described as a tribute from the rulers of the Punjab, but in reality, it was more of a forced cession due to British military and political dominance.
6. Subsequent History : The diamond was cut down significantly to enhance its brilliance, reducing its weight from 186 carats to 108.93 carats. It was set in the Crown of Queen Victoria and later in the Crown of the Queen Mother, where it remains as part of the British Crown Jewels.

The possession of the Kohinoor has been a point of contention, with India, Pakistan, and Afghanistan at various times laying claim to it, arguing that it was taken under duress or as spoils of war. The British perspective often frames it as a gift or a legal acquisition under the treaties of the time. However, the ethical and legal debates continue, especially in discussions about colonial legacies and the return of cultural artifacts.