Indian Women's History Quiz

Questions and Answers

Why did the reformers take up the cause of emancipation of women?

The reformers believed in social equality and justice, and recognized the need to empower women who were marginalized and oppressed.

What was the condition of widows prior to the reform movements?

Widows were treated as social outcasts, deprived of basic rights and often faced discrimination and neglect.

What was the contribution of Raja Rammohun Roy in women reforms?

Raja Rammohun Roy advocated for women's education and spoke against social evils like Sati, promoting progressive ideas for the upliftment of women.

How did Vidyasagar succeed in bringing reforms for widows?

Vidyasagar played a key role in legal reforms such as the Widow Remarriage Act, 1856, which allowed widows to remarry and provided them with more rights and social acceptance. Signup and view all the answers

How was Pandita Ramabai different from women of her age?

Pandita Ramabai was a social reformer who challenged traditional gender roles, promoted women's education, and worked towards empowering marginalized women. Signup and view all the answers

What do you mean by the Sati System prevalent in the society?

The Sati System was a practice where widows were expected to immolate themselves on their husband's funeral pyre, a tradition that was seen as oppressive and inhumane. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Women's Life in 19th Century India

Women's life in 19th century India was marked by social evils like Sati System, child marriage, and limited education and employment opportunities.

The Sati System

The Sati System was a practice in which a widow would immolate herself on her husband's funeral pyre.

Brahmo Samaj

The Brahmo Samaj was a socio-religious reform movement founded by Raja Rammohun Roy.

Social evils prevalent in 19th century India included the Sati System, child marriage, and restrictions on women's education and employment.

Widow Remarriage Act, 1856

The Widow Remarriage Act, 1856, was a legislation that allowed widows to remarry.
The act was a result of struggles by reformers who sought to bring about change in the status of women.

Pandita Ramabai

Pandita Ramabai was a prominent Indian woman who struggled for women's rights and education.
She was different from women of her age due to her progressive views and efforts to bring about change.

Raja Rammohun Roy's Contribution

Raja Rammohun Roy contributed to women's reforms by founding the Brahmo Samaj, which aimed to end social evils like the Sati System.

Vidyasagar's Reforms for Widows

Vidyasagar succeeded in bringing reforms for widows by advocating for their rights and education.
His efforts led to the passage of the Widow Remarriage Act, 1856.

Condition of Widows

Prior to the reform movements, widows were subjected to social ostracism, forced to shave their heads, and were not allowed to remarry.