British Colonial Conflicts in India and Beyond

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Questions and Answers

What triggered the British to attack Bhutan in the early 19th century?

The annexation of Gorakhpur by the British

Frequent Bhutanese raids and mistreatment of Elgin's envoy (correct)

The desire to establish a trade agreement with Tibet

British expansion into Burmese territories

Which treaty resulted from the conflict between the British and the Gorkhas?

Treaty of Yandabo

Treaty of Lhasa

Treaty of Amritsar

Treaty of Sagauli (correct)

What was a primary reason for the British involvement in the Anglo-Burmese Wars?

To spread British education

To establish sovereignty over Tibet

To acquire valuable forest resources (correct)

To promote democracy in Burma

What did the Treaty of Yandabo (1826) accomplish?

It ended the First Anglo-Burmese War Signup and view all the answers

What prompted Curzon to send a Gorkha contingent to Tibet?

Reports of Russian materials entering Tibet Signup and view all the answers

What action did the British take against Thibaw, the king of Burma?

They invaded and annexed upper Burma Signup and view all the answers

What was one consequence of the Treaty of Sagauli in 1816?

Gorkhas had to join the British Indian army Signup and view all the answers

What was one of the British motivations in establishing control over Afghanistan?

To counter a potential Russian threat Signup and view all the answers

What was the primary purpose of the Bengal regulations of 1795 and 1804?

To declare infanticide illegal Signup and view all the answers

Which Act raised the legal marriage age to 18 for girls?

The Sarda Act, 1930 Signup and view all the answers

Who played a significant role in the establishment of girls' schools in Bengal?

Pandit Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar Signup and view all the answers

What argument does John Seeley present regarding the British conquest of India?

The conquest was accidental and due to absent-mindedness. Signup and view all the answers

Which factor contributed to the military success of the British in India?

Use of superior firearms and strategy. Signup and view all the answers

Which organization was founded by Sarla Devi Chaudhurani in 1910?

Bharat Stree Mahamandal Signup and view all the answers

What legislative action was taken to control child marriage in 1891?

Prohibiting marriage of girls below 12 Signup and view all the answers

What was a significant difference in the recruitment of military personnel between the British and Indian forces?

British troops were hired based on skill and merit. Signup and view all the answers

Which battle is considered by some historians as marking the beginning of British rule in India?

Battle of Plassey Signup and view all the answers

What was one effect of British rule on caste-based discrimination?

Free sale of land Signup and view all the answers

Which initiative was NOT associated with women's education in the 19th century?

Ladies Social Conference Signup and view all the answers

What aspect of leadership was lacking on the Indian side during the British conquest?

Charismatic leaders who could unite Indian states. Signup and view all the answers

What misconception is presented about the initial British presence in India?

They planned to rule India from the beginning. Signup and view all the answers

What significant change was introduced by the Native Marriage Act of 1872?

Prohibition of child marriage Signup and view all the answers

How did the British consolidate their power in India over time?

By instigating conflicts and playing different factions against each other. Signup and view all the answers

What role did the concept of 'India' play in the political landscape during the British conquest?

There was a lack of a unified identity among Indian states. Signup and view all the answers

What was one of the primary motivations for the socio-religious reform movements in 19th century India?

The influence of modern Western ideas and education Signup and view all the answers

Which atrocity against women was abolished due to the efforts of reformers like Raja Rammohan Roy?

Sati Signup and view all the answers

What was a significant barrier to the growth of national feeling among the population during the socio-religious reform movements?

The practice of untouchability Signup and view all the answers

Why did Indian intellectuals recognize the need for reforms during the revolt?

The brutality of both sides highlighted the futility of violence Signup and view all the answers

What aspect of Indian society was particularly criticized for being stagnant during British rule?

Science and technology Signup and view all the answers

Which social condition significantly influenced the need for reform in the 19th century?

Widespread superstition and magical practices Signup and view all the answers

What was one of the two main focuses of the socio-religious reform movements?

Improving the status of women Signup and view all the answers

What cultural reaction did Indian society have towards the promotion of Western culture during British rule?

Demeaning of Indian culture and fuel of hatred Signup and view all the answers

What was one of the main demands of Nulkar and Rashbehari Ghosh?

More power to councils for Indians Signup and view all the answers

Which reform was NOT part of the moderates' campaign for General Administrative Reforms?

Increased military spending Signup and view all the answers

What did the early nationalists aim to achieve through their political activities?

A national awakening among the public Signup and view all the answers

Why did militant nationalism emerge in the early 20th century?

Recognition of British exploitation through the Drain theory Signup and view all the answers

What was a significant reaction to the arrest of Lokmanya Tilak in 1897?

Public outrage and activism Signup and view all the answers

What was one of the failures of early nationalists?

Including the mass population in their movements Signup and view all the answers

Which act contributed to the strengthening of militant nationalism?

Indian Councils Act of 1861 Signup and view all the answers

What was one of the key civil rights issues raised by early nationalists?

Right to free speech and press Signup and view all the answers

What was one of the positive aspects of the reform movements in India?

Promotion of personal worship and human intellect Signup and view all the answers

What was a negative impact of the reform movements on the lower classes?

They created communal tensions among communities Signup and view all the answers

Which college was founded by Annie Besant to educate about Hinduism and western science?

Central Hindu College Signup and view all the answers

What was a significant factor in the growth of modern nationalism in India?

Political and economic unification under British rule Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following was NOT a result of the reform movements?

Increased corruption in religious practices Signup and view all the answers

What aspect of the reform movements had a narrow social base?

Neglect of the poor and masses Signup and view all the answers

Which transportation and communication advancements helped unify economic interests in India?

Modern railways and telegraphs Signup and view all the answers

What was a consequence of reform movements overemphasizing ancient scriptures?

They marginalized the lower classes Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Chapter Summaries

Advent of Europeans in India: Europeans arrived in India seeking a sea route and spices. Portugal established trade routes and controlled coastal areas. Vasco da Gama arrived at Calicut in 1498.
India on the eve of British Conquest: External challenges like Nadir Shah and Ahmad Shah Abdali's invasions weakened the Mughal Empire. Weak rulers followed Aurangzeb. Lack of clear succession led to internal conflicts and weakened administration.
People's Resistance Against British Before 1857: Social and economic grievances fueled resistance against the British East India Company. Several peasant and tribal uprisings (e.g., Sanyasi Revolt, Indigo Revolt, Pabna Agrarian Leagues) highlight discontent with land revenue policies, economic exploitation, and cultural oppression.
The Revolt of 1857: Economic issues (like the high taxes and land revenue policies), socio-religious concerns, and the perceived disrespect of the British led to the revolt. The Sepoy Mutiny at Meerut marked a turning point in the uprising. The revolt was largely due to military grievances.
Expansion and consolidation of British power in India: The British progressively expanded their influence through warfare and diplomacy. Following early resistance, they consolidated their power establishing a larger administration. Factors like superior weaponry, better military strategies, and astute leadership contributed to their success.
Socio-Religious Reform Movements: General Features: The 19th century saw various reform movements aimed at addressing social inequalities and religious practices. These movements were often influenced by Western ideas and sought to reform Hinduism and other religions.
A General Survey of Socio-Cultural Reform Movements: Reform movements like the Brahmo Samaj, Prarthana Samaj arose, advocating greater social and religious equality. Modern ideas and philosophies were discussed and promoted.
Beginning of Modern Nationalism in India: The British unification of India created a sense of shared identity and interests, laying the groundwork for nationalist movements, especially as people began to question British policies and their economic impact.
Era of Militant Nationalism (1905-1909): Factors like the Partition of Bengal, the repressive policies of Lord Curzon, and the ineffective response of the moderates fueled the rising nationalism.
First Phase of Revolutionary Activities (1907-1917): Groups like the Anushilan Samiti and the revolutionary activities both within India and abroad played an important role in resisting British rule.
First World War and Nationalist Response: The WWI created new circumstances to spur the growing independence movement. Groups such as the Home Rule League (founded by Annie Besant and Bal Gangadhar Tilak) emerged.
Emergence of Gandhi: Gandhi's significant contributions and activism during WWI to the nationalist movement greatly influenced people. He employed techniques of non-violent resistance. His emergence led to new forms of nationalist resistance.
Non-Cooperation Movement and Khilafat Aandolan: The Non-Cooperation Movement, uniting Hindus and Muslims under common grievances against the British, created widespread protests. The Khilafat movement galvanized Muslim groups.
Civil Disobedience Movement and Round Table Conference: The CDM marked a turning point in India's struggle against British rule. It involved widespread civil disobedience. The Round Table Conferences were attempts by the British to address Indian demands, but ultimately failed to satisfy the nationalists.
Debates on the Future Strategy after CDM: Following the CDM, there were ongoing discussions about the best strategies for achieving Indian independence. Different factions within the Congress had differing opinions about the path forward, with some advocating for legislative participation and others for continued mass resistance movements.
Simon Commission and the Nehru Report: The Simon Commission, comprising only British members, prompted widespread protests in India. The Nehru Report, a draft constitution, proposed solutions for the issues, but was viewed with mistrust.
Quit India Movement, Demand for Pakistan and INA: The Quit India Movement was a crucial turning point, mobilizing widespread resistance against British rule, especially with the formation of the Indian National Army (INA). The demand for Pakistan arose during this period.
Post War National Scenario: Post WWII, India faced significant socio-political upheavals, including the INA trials, religious intolerance, and the growing demand for independence. The communal divisions within Indian society played a critical role in the events that followed.
Constitutional, Administrative and Judicial Developments: A critical look at the development of Indian government, court systems, and administration.
Economic Impact of British Rule in India: A detailed analysis of British economic policies and their detrimental effects on India (e.g., de-industrialization, exploitation of resources)
Development of Indian Press: A review of how the press evolved and became a key tool for social, political, and cultural change in India.
Development of Education: The development of education during the British Raj, including the introduction of modern education, institutions, and policies.
Survey of British Policies in India: Analysis of the attitudes and policies of the British toward various social and political groups in India.
Peasant Movements (1857-1947): An outline of significant peasant revolts against the British policies, like the Deccan riots, the Indigo Revolt, and the Mappila Revolt highlighting issues with land revenue and exploitation.
The Movement of the Working Class: A survey of the growing working class in India and the movements organized to protest unfair labour laws and working conditions.

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Explore the intricate details of British colonialism in India, particularly focusing on key conflicts and treaties like the Treaty of Yandabo and the Treaty of Sagauli. This quiz will test your knowledge of the motivations behind British interventions in Bhutan, Burma, and Afghanistan, as well as the impacts of these historical events on the region. Discover the notable figures and regulations that shaped this period.