Wellesley played a vital role in strengthening and expanding the British rule in India. His oppressive but effective policy of subordinate isolation led to the annexation of Mysore and the Maratha States.

Wellesley's forceful policy of expansion was also aimed at reducing the French presence in India. He refused to implement the British government's order to restore Indian territories to France, and this led to the termination of his tenure in 1805. He was succeeded by Lord Cornwallis.