Answer
1. The British were able to manipulate local Indian rulers by playing them against each other, using military force, and offering economic incentives.
2. Europeans adapted their lifestyles to tropical regions by wearing lightweight and breathable clothing, building houses with high ceilings and verandas for ventilation, and consuming foods and drinks that helped them stay hydrated in the hot climate. They also relied on technologies such as fans, iceboxes, and mosquito nets to make life more comfortable.