Class 12

What are the problems of using official sources in writing about the history of peasants?

When considering the history of ryots (peasant farmers) during the Company Raj in India, it’s important to recognize the limitations and biases inherent in official sources from that period. These sources are often not regarded as reliable for several reasons: Narrow Perspective: Official records predominantly reflect the perspective of the Company Raj, with a limited…

How did the American Civil War affect the lives of ryots in India?

The American Civil War (1861-1865) had a significant impact on the lives of ryots (peasant farmers) in India, primarily through its effect on the global cotton market. 1. Surge in Cotton Demand: The American Civil War disrupted the supply of cotton to Britain, the world’s largest textile manufacturer at the time. As America was the…

In what way was the livelihood of the Paharias different from that of the Santhals?

The Paharias and the Santhals, two indigenous communities in India, had distinct livelihoods primarily due to their different environmental adaptations and cultural practices. The Paharias, traditionally known as hill dwellers, primarily resided in the Rajmahal Hills of eastern India. Their livelihood was mainly based on shifting cultivation, also known as ‘jhoom’ cultivation, along with hunting…

Why were many zamindaris auctioned after the Permanent Settlement?

The Permanent Settlement, introduced by the British in India in 1793, led to the auctioning of many zamindaris (landed estates) due to several reasons: 1. Fixed Revenue Demand: The Permanent Settlement fixed the revenue that zamindars had to pay to the British government. This amount was often high and had to be paid regardless of…

What explains the anger of the Deccan ryots against the moneylenders?

The anger of the Deccan ryots (peasants) against the moneylenders in the late 19th century was primarily driven by the following factors: 1. High Interest Rates: Moneylenders charged exorbitantly high-interest rates, which led to a cycle of debt for the ryots. These rates were often so high that repaying the loans became virtually impossible for…

Why did the Santhals rebel against British rule?

The Santhal Rebellion, also known as the Santhal Hool, against British rule in 1855-1856 was primarily fueled by several key factors: 1. Exploitation by Moneylenders and Landlords: The Santhals were exploited by the local moneylenders (mahajans) and landlords (zamindars). They were often trapped in cycles of debt due to high interest rates and unfair practices,…

How did the Paharias respond to the coming of outsiders?

The Paharias, an indigenous tribe primarily residing in the Rajmahal Hills of eastern India, responded to the arrival of outsiders with a mix of adaptation and resistance. Their response varied over time and depending on the nature of the outsider’s influence. 1. Initial Resistance: Initially, the Paharias resisted the intrusions of outsiders, particularly during the…

How did zamindars manage to retain control over their zamindaris?

When facing difficulties, zamindars employed a variety of strategies to retain control over their estates: 1. Fictitious Auction Sales: Zamindars often orchestrated sham auctions. They would have their associates place the highest bids during these auctions, only for these bidders to later default on payment. After this charade was repeated several times, the frustrated government…

Why was the jotedar a powerful figure in many areas of rural Bengal?

The Jotedar, a significant figure in many areas of rural Bengal, traditionally held considerable power and influence due to a combination of economic, social, and political factors. Here are the key reasons: 1. Land Ownership and Economic Influence: Jotedars were typically large landowners or intermediate tenants. Their control over substantial agricultural lands allowed them to…