All questions of Class 8 History for UPSC CSE Exam

The Himachal,Option C.

Explanation:


Historians often compare the past with the present and refer to the time before and after a particular event or period. The correct answer to the question is option B, which is Time. Here are the reasons why:

Comparison of the Past and Present:


Historians often compare the past and present to understand how things have changed over time. They analyze various aspects of society, such as politics, economics, culture, and technology, to identify similarities and differences between the two.

Reference to Time:


When historians compare the past and present, they often refer to specific time periods. For example, they may compare the political systems of ancient Greece and modern-day America, or they may compare the economic conditions of the Great Depression and the 2008 financial crisis.

Before and After:


Historians use the concept of before and after to help them understand how events have impacted society over time. For example, they may study the period before and after the Industrial Revolution to understand how it transformed the economy and society.

Conclusion:


In conclusion, historians often compare the past with the present and refer to time to understand how society has changed over time. They use the concept of before and after to analyze the impact of specific events or periods on society.

Because on that day india became independent .to celebrate that event they gathered at the red fort .

The Uprising of 1857: An Overview
The Uprising of 1857, also known as the Sepoy Mutiny, was a significant revolt against British rule in India. While it is often portrayed as a simple uprising, the reality was much more complex.
Factors Leading to the Uprising
- Cultural Insensitivity: The British introduced policies that disrespected local customs and traditions, leading to widespread resentment.
- Economic Exploitation: British economic policies severely affected Indian industries and agriculture, causing dissatisfaction among various communities.
- Military Grievances: Indian soldiers (sepoys) faced discrimination and were unhappy with the conditions of their service, which culminated in the immediate cause of the revolt.
Nature of the Conflict
- Widespread Participation: The rebellion was not limited to sepoys; it involved various sections of Indian society, including peasants, zamindars, and even some rulers.
- Regional Variations: Different regions had their own leaders and motives, making it difficult for the British to suppress the uprising uniformly.
British Response
- Initial Setbacks: The British faced significant challenges and suffered considerable losses in the initial stages of the uprising, indicating that the rebel forces were formidable.
- Brutal Repression: The British eventually managed to quell the rebellion through brutal military tactics, but it took considerable time and effort.
Conclusion
The statement that "the British easily defeated all the rebel forces during the uprising of 1857" is therefore False. The uprising was a complex and fierce conflict that challenged British authority, demonstrating the resilience of Indian forces and the difficulties faced by the British in maintaining control.

Explanation:

Periodization in "A History of British India"
James Mill periodized Indian history in his work "A History of British India" by categorizing it into Hindu, Muslim, and British periods.

Explanation of Periodization
- Hindu Period: Mill identified the Hindu period as the time before the Muslim conquests in India. This period was characterized by the rule of various Hindu dynasties and the development of Hindu culture and traditions.
- Muslim Period: The Muslim period in Indian history began with the arrival of Muslim rulers and the establishment of Muslim dynasties in India. This period saw the fusion of Indian and Islamic cultures and the flourishing of art, architecture, and literature.
- British Period: The British period refers to the time when the British East India Company and later the British Crown ruled over India. This period was marked by British colonialism, the spread of Western education and culture, and the Indian struggle for independence.

Significance of Periodization
- Mill's periodization of Indian history helped in understanding the different phases of Indian society and culture under various rulers.
- It also highlighted the impact of different ruling powers on Indian society and the changes that occurred over time.
- By dividing Indian history into distinct periods, Mill provided a framework for analyzing the evolution of Indian civilization and the interactions between different cultural influences.
In conclusion, James Mill's periodization of Indian history into Hindu, Muslim, and British periods in "A History of British India" offers a structured approach to studying the diverse historical experiences of India under different ruling powers.

Abolition of Permanent Settlement System

The Permanent Settlement System was introduced by Lord Cornwallis in 1793 in Bengal, Bihar, and Odisha. It was a land revenue system that fixed the land revenue demand in perpetuity, based on the expectation of a stable increase in agricultural production and thus, revenue. However, this system was not successful in achieving its objectives, as it led to the exploitation of farmers and the concentration of land in the hands of a few landlords.

Abolition of Permanent Settlement System

In 1833, the Governor-General of India, Lord William Bentinck, abolished the Permanent Settlement System in all the provinces of India, except for Bengal, as it was a major source of revenue for the British East India Company. However, in 1855, the Bengal Tenancy Act was passed, which introduced some reforms to protect the rights of tenants and regulate the relationship between landlords and tenants.

Finally, in 1951, the Permanent Settlement System was abolished in Bengal, and a new system of land revenue was introduced, which was based on the assessment of the land's productivity and the market value of crops. This system was more equitable and transparent and helped in the development of agriculture and the welfare of farmers.

Conclusion

Thus, the Permanent Settlement System was abolished in 1951 in Bengal, after being in operation for almost 158 years. It was replaced by a more equitable and transparent system of land revenue that helped in the development of agriculture and the welfare of farmers.

Founder of Theosophical Society in India:
Annie Besant

Explanation:
The Theosophical Society was founded in New York City in 1875 by Helena Petrovna Blavatsky, Henry Steel Olcott, William Quan Judge, and others. Annie Besant, a British social reformer, joined the Society in 1889 and became its leader in 1907. She founded the Theosophical Society in India in 1893 along with Henry Steel Olcott.

Life of Annie Besant:
Annie Besant was born in London, England in 1847. She was a social reformer, women's rights activist, and theosophist. In 1873, she became a member of the National Secular Society and started writing for their publication, The National Reformer. She also became involved in the trade union movement and the Fabian Society.

Contribution of Annie Besant:
Annie Besant's contribution to the Theosophical Society in India was immense. She was instrumental in establishing the society's headquarters in Adyar, Chennai. She also founded the Central Hindu College in Benares (now Varanasi), which later became the Banaras Hindu University. She was a strong advocate of Indian self-rule and worked closely with Indian leaders like Bal Gangadhar Tilak and Mahatma Gandhi.

Conclusion:
Annie Besant's contribution to the Theosophical Society in India and her work for the Indian independence movement have made her a prominent figure in Indian history. Her legacy continues to inspire social reformers and activists today.

The correct answer is option C

Raja ram mohun ray

Birsa Munda was a young freedom fighter and a tribal leader, whose spirit of activism in the late nineteenth century, is remembered to be a strong mark of protest against British rule in India. He died in Ranchi Jail on 9 June 1900. Although the British claimed he died of cholera, he never showed symptoms of the disease. ... After his death the movement faded out. However, the movement was significant in at least two ways.

Reasons for the resentment of countryside peasants and zamindars towards the British:

1. High Taxes:
The British implemented high taxes on the countryside peasants and zamindars, which became a significant burden on their already meager incomes. The taxes were often collected in a rigid and oppressive manner, leading to widespread resentment among the rural population.

2. Rigid Methods of Revenue Collection:
The British employed strict and inflexible methods of revenue collection, which often resulted in the loss of lands for many peasants. The revenue collection system was designed to favor the moneylenders, who would often buy the lands of peasants unable to pay their taxes. This led to further impoverishment and displacement of the rural population.

3. Exploitation by Moneylenders:
The high taxes and rigid revenue collection methods forced many peasants into debt, resulting in their lands being acquired by moneylenders. The British administration failed to protect the interests of the peasants, allowing moneylenders to take advantage of their vulnerable situation. This further deepened the resentment towards the British.

4. Denial of High-Rank Jobs:
The British followed a policy of racial discrimination by denying high-ranking jobs to Indians. This created a sense of inferiority among the Indian population and fueled their resentment towards the British administration.

5. Loss of Autonomy:
The British colonization of India resulted in the loss of autonomy for the countryside peasants and zamindars. They were no longer in control of their own lands and resources, as the British imposed their own systems of governance and administration. This loss of autonomy and control over their own affairs contributed to the resentment towards the British.

6. Impact on Traditional Livelihoods:
The British policies and economic changes had a negative impact on the traditional livelihoods of the countryside peasants and zamindars. The introduction of cash crops and the decline of traditional industries disrupted the rural economy, leading to further hardships for the rural population. This added to the resentment towards the British.

Overall, the countryside peasants and zamindars resented the British due to a combination of factors including high taxes, rigid revenue collection methods, exploitation by moneylenders, denial of high-rank jobs, loss of autonomy, and the impact on traditional livelihoods. These factors created a deep sense of dissatisfaction and discontent among the rural population towards the British administration.

Yes, the correct answer is A- Id. As everyone in this picture are collected at mosque for their prayers (namaaz). People are hugging each other which shows that they are greeting each other and wishing 'Eid mubarak'. 

Swadeshi Movement
The movement launched following the Partition of Bengal was the Swadeshi Movement. It was a significant phase in India's struggle for independence from British colonial rule. The movement aimed to promote the use of indigenous goods and boycott British products as a means of economic resistance against British dominance. Here are some key details about the Swadeshi Movement:
1. Background:
- The Partition of Bengal in 1905 by the British colonial government sparked widespread protests and outrage among the Indian population.
- The partition was seen as a divide-and-rule policy aimed at weakening the growing nationalist movement in Bengal.
- To counter this, the Swadeshi Movement was initiated to promote self-reliance and assert Indian identity.
2. Key Features:
- Boycott of British goods: Indians were urged to boycott British products and instead support indigenous industries.
- Promotion of Indian products: The movement emphasized the use of Indian-made goods and encouraged the establishment of Swadeshi industries.
- Nationalistic fervor: The movement instilled a sense of pride in Indian culture, heritage, and self-sufficiency.
- Public protests and demonstrations: Mass rallies, processions, and public meetings were organized to mobilize public support for the movement.
3. Methods of Resistance:
- Boycott of foreign goods: Indians boycotted British textiles, machinery, and other products, leading to a decline in imports.
- Promotion of Indian goods: Swadeshi products like clothes, salt, and other daily essentials were produced and promoted as an alternative to British goods.
- Public demonstrations: People gathered in large numbers to protest against British policies, often leading to clashes with the authorities.
- National education: The movement emphasized the need for quality education rooted in Indian values and culture.
4. Impact:
- Economic empowerment: The movement led to the growth of indigenous industries and self-reliance, reducing dependency on British goods.
- National unity: The Swadeshi Movement brought people from different regions and communities together, fostering a sense of national unity.
- Strengthening of the freedom struggle: The movement served as a precursor to other major movements like the Non-Cooperation Movement and the Quit India Movement.
- Cultural resurgence: The movement revitalized Indian arts, crafts, and traditional practices.
In conclusion, the Swadeshi Movement was launched as a response to the Partition of Bengal and aimed to promote indigenous industries, boycott British goods, and foster a sense of national unity and self-reliance. It played a crucial role in the overall struggle for Indian independence.

The Permanent Settlement was an agreement made in 1793 between the British East India Company and the zamindars of Bengal. Under this settlement, the zamindars were recognized as the owners of the land and were responsible for collecting rent from the peasants. The answer to the question is option 'C', which means that the rajas and taluqdars were recognized as zamindars under the Permanent Settlement.

Who are Rajas and Taluqdars?

- Rajas: They were the hereditary rulers of princely states in India. They held a high social and political status in the society.

- Taluqdars: They were the large landowners who held estates in the Mughal Empire. They were considered as the intermediaries between the Mughal rulers and the peasants.

Why were they recognized as zamindars?

- The British East India Company wanted to collect revenue from the land in Bengal, but they did not have a proper system for it. So, they decided to introduce the Permanent Settlement, which aimed to fix the revenue collection system.

- The British officials thought that the zamindars, who were the traditional landowners, would be better suited to collect revenue from the peasants.

- The rajas and taluqdars were the most powerful zamindars in Bengal, and they had the resources to pay the fixed revenue to the British. So, they were recognized as zamindars under the Permanent Settlement.

Conclusion:

The Permanent Settlement was a significant agreement in the history of India, which had far-reaching consequences. The recognition of rajas and taluqdars as zamindars played a crucial role in the implementation of the settlement. However, the settlement had many flaws, which led to the exploitation of peasants and the decline of agriculture in Bengal.

In January 1784 Sir William Jones sent out a circular-letter to a selected number of British residents of Calcutta with a view to establish a society for the Asiatic studies.

Consequences of High Revenue Demand in Permanent Settlement
The Permanent Settlement system, introduced by the British in India in the late 18th century, had profound implications for the peasantry. One of the most significant consequences was the high revenue demand imposed on peasants.
High Revenue Demand
- The British set fixed revenue assessments for land, which the zamindars (landlords) were required to collect from the peasants.
- This revenue was often high and did not take into account the agricultural productivity or the economic conditions of the peasants.
Inability to Pay Rent
- Due to the rigid revenue demands, many peasants found it challenging to meet the payment requirements.
- Poor harvests, fluctuations in crop prices, and rising costs of inputs made it difficult for farmers to generate enough income.
- When peasants failed to pay their dues, zamindars resorted to evicting them from their lands.
Evictions and Social Consequences
- The evictions led to widespread landlessness and increased poverty among the rural population.
- Many families were uprooted, leading to social instability and increased migration to urban areas in search of work.
- The resultant decline in peasant morale and agricultural productivity further exacerbated the economic issues in rural areas.
Conclusion
In summary, the high revenue demands fixed under the Permanent Settlement directly resulted in the inability of many peasants to pay rent, leading to evictions and widespread socio-economic distress. This system created a cycle of poverty that had long-lasting effects on Indian agriculture and society.

Portraiture:
Portraiture refers to the art of creating portraits, which are visual representations of individuals or groups of people. It involves capturing the likeness, character, and personality of the subject through various artistic techniques. Portraits can be created using different mediums such as painting, drawing, sculpture, or photography.
Key Points:
- Portraiture is the art of making portraits.
- Portraits are visual representations of individuals or groups of people.
- Portraits aim to capture the likeness, character, and personality of the subject.
- Portraits can be created using various artistic techniques and mediums.
- Painting, drawing, sculpture, and photography are common mediums used in portraiture.
- Portraiture has been practiced throughout history and is a significant genre in art.
- Portraits can serve as a means of displaying wealth, status, and lavish lifestyles, as seen in the context of the empire mentioned in the question.
- Portraiture allows artists to express their creativity and interpretation of the subject.
- Portraits can convey emotions, tell stories, and preserve memories.
- Portraiture is still a popular and relevant art form today, with contemporary artists exploring new techniques and approaches.

**Governor General William Bentinck and the Initiative to Ban Sati**

**Introduction**

Raja Ram Mohan Roy, often hailed as the "Father of the Indian Renaissance," played a pivotal role in various social and religious reforms during the early 19th century. One of his notable achievements was his efforts towards the abolition of the practice of Sati, a custom where widows were expected to immolate themselves on their husband's funeral pyre. This initiative was carried out during the tenure of Governor General William Bentinck.

**Governor General William Bentinck**

William Bentinck served as the Governor-General of India from 1828 to 1835. He was appointed by the British East India Company and played a crucial role in implementing several reforms in India. Bentinck was a liberal-minded administrator who sought to modernize Indian society and address various social evils prevailing at that time.

**Efforts of Raja Ram Mohan Roy**

Raja Ram Mohan Roy, a prominent social reformer and intellectual, vehemently opposed the practice of Sati. He considered it an inhumane and regressive practice that needed to be abolished. With his deep knowledge of Hindu scriptures and his ability to communicate effectively with both Indian and British officials, Roy worked tirelessly to bring about a change in societal attitudes towards Sati.

**Formation of the Sati Regulation Act**

In 1829, Governor General William Bentinck passed the Sati Regulation Act, which declared the practice of Sati illegal in British India. This act aimed to put an end to the custom of Sati and protect the lives of widows who were coerced or forced into self-immolation.

**Raja Ram Mohan Roy's Influence**

Raja Ram Mohan Roy's influence on Governor General William Bentinck cannot be overstated. Roy's arguments and advocacy for the abolition of Sati played a crucial role in shaping Bentinck's decision to pass the Sati Regulation Act. Roy's extensive knowledge of Hindu scriptures and his ability to present logical and rational arguments against Sati helped sway public opinion in favor of its abolition.

**Conclusion**

In conclusion, it was under the tenure of Governor General William Bentinck that Raja Ram Mohan Roy's efforts towards the abolition of Sati bore fruit. The passing of the Sati Regulation Act in 1829 marked a significant step towards eradicating this cruel practice from Indian society. Bentinck's decision was influenced by the persuasive arguments and tireless efforts of Raja Ram Mohan Roy, who played a pivotal role in bringing about this important social reform.

The founder of Arya Samaj, an organization that attempted to reform Hinduism, is Swami Dayanand Saraswathi.

Swami Dayanand Saraswathi:
- He was born in 1824 in Gujarat, India.
- He was a teacher and a philosopher who believed in the Vedas as the true source of knowledge and wisdom.
- In 1875, he founded the Arya Samaj, a Hindu reform movement aimed at restoring the Vedic tradition.
- He believed in the principles of monotheism, the rejection of idol worship, and the promotion of social equality.
- He also advocated for the education of women, the abolition of caste system, and the promotion of Swadeshi (self-reliance) movement.
- He wrote many books, including the Satyarth Prakash (The Light of Truth), which is considered the most important work of the Arya Samaj.

Arya Samaj:
- The Arya Samaj is a Hindu reform movement that was established in 1875 by Swami Dayanand Saraswathi.
- Its main goal was to reform Hinduism and restore the Vedic tradition.
- The Arya Samaj rejected idol worship, caste system, and other practices that were considered to be un-Vedic.
- The organization aimed to promote social equality, education, and self-reliance.
- The Arya Samaj established many schools and colleges to promote education, especially for women.
- The organization also played a key role in the Indian independence movement.

Conclusion:
Swami Dayanand Saraswathi founded the Arya Samaj, a Hindu reform movement that aimed to restore the Vedic tradition, promote social equality, education, and self-reliance. The organization played a key role in the Indian independence movement and is still active today.

The cultivators or the peasants who actually worked on the land are called as ryots.

Explanation:

• The term "ryot" originated from the Persian word "riot" which means "peasant" or "cultivator".

• In India, the term "ryot" refers to the cultivators or the peasants who actually work on the land. They are also known as "tiller of the soil" or "agricultural laborers".

• These ryots are the backbone of Indian agriculture, as they cultivate crops on small plots of land and provide food for the entire nation.

• Ryots are mainly small and marginal farmers who till the land with their own hands or with the help of family members. They do not have the resources to hire laborers or to buy modern farming equipment.

• The ryots are vulnerable to natural disasters such as floods, droughts, and crop failures. They also face the problem of low productivity due to lack of irrigation, poor soil fertility, and pest attacks.

• The Indian government has introduced various schemes and programs to support the ryots and to improve their livelihood. These include crop insurance, subsidies on seeds and fertilizers, and credit facilities.

• Despite these efforts, the condition of ryots remains poor, and they continue to face various challenges such as landlessness, debt, and exploitation by moneylenders and middlemen.

In conclusion, ryots are the cultivators or the peasants who actually work on the land and play a crucial role in Indian agriculture.

(b)Rani Laxmi Bhai