When People Rebel – 1857 and After" - Summary and Question Answer of NCERT Class 8 History Chapter 5"
Summary of NCERT Class 8 History Chapter 5, Titled "When People Rebel – 1857 and After":
Chapter Summary:
The chapter "When People Rebel – 1857 and After"
in the NCERT Class 8 History textbook discusses the events surrounding the
Indian Rebellion of 1857, also known as the First War of Independence, and its
aftermath. It highlights the causes, key leaders, significant battles, and
consequences of this pivotal moment in India's history.
1. Introduction:
- The
chapter begins by narrating the incident of a soldier, Mangal Pandey, who
rebelled against his British officers in 1857.
- It
sets the stage for a broader discussion of the rebellion that swept across
India.
2. The Beginning of the Rebellion:
- The
chapter explores the various factors that led to the outbreak of the
rebellion, including the introduction of the new Enfield rifle,
discontentment among sepoys (Indian soldiers), and the use of animal fat
on the rifle cartridges.
- The
sepoys at Meerut and Delhi were among the first to revolt.
3. The Rebellion Spreads:
- The
rebellion quickly spread to other parts of North India, with many Indian
rulers and soldiers joining the uprising.
- The
chapter discusses key leaders such as Rani Lakshmibai of Jhansi, Kunwar
Singh, and Bahadur Shah II.
4. Battles and Strategies:
- Important
battles like the Siege of Delhi, Kanpur, and Lucknow are described.
- The
tactics and strategies employed by both sides, the rebels and the British,
are discussed.
5. The Aftermath:
- The
British successfully suppressed the rebellion through a combination of
military force and diplomacy.
- Many
rebel leaders were captured or killed, and their properties were
confiscated.
- The
chapter emphasizes the brutal reprisals by the British against Indians.
6. Changes After the Rebellion:
- The
rebellion led to significant changes in British policies and
administration in India.
- The
British Crown took control of India from the East India Company in 1858
through the Government of India Act.
- A
policy of 'Divide and Rule' was initiated, causing communal tensions.
7. Conclusion:
- The
chapter concludes by reflecting on the long-lasting impact of the
rebellion, stating that it laid the foundation for the Indian struggle for
independence.
- It
emphasizes the importance of remembering the sacrifices and contributions
of those who participated in the revolt.
8. Historical Sources:
- The
chapter also introduces students to various historical sources, including
photographs, paintings, and documents, that provide insights into the
events of 1857.
In summary, NCERT Class 8 History Chapter 5 explores the
Indian Rebellion of 1857, its causes, key figures, battles, and the changes it
brought about in India's history. It underscores the significance of this
rebellion as a precursor to India's fight for independence from British
colonial rule.
NCERT Solutions
Class 8 Social Science History Our Pasts III Chapter 5
NCERT Solutions for Class 8 History Chapter 5 – When People Rebel – 1857
and After,
What was the demand of Rani Lakshmibai of
Jhansi that was refused by the British?
Rani Lakshmibai of Jhansi demanded that her adopted son,
Damodar Rao, be recognized as the legitimate heir to the Jhansi throne after
the death of her husband, Maharaja Raja Gangadhar Rao. However, the British
East India Company refused to acknowledge Damodar Rao's claim and instead
annexed the state of Jhansi on the grounds of the Doctrine of Lapse, which
allowed them to annex any princely state that did not have a male heir of its
own. This unjust annexation of Jhansi by the British was one of the
contributing factors to the Indian Rebellion of 1857.
What did the British
do to protect the interests of those who converted to Christianity?
In response to the Sepoy Mutiny of 1857, the British took
several measures to protect the interests of those who converted to
Christianity. Some of the key actions they took include:
- Protection of Converted Christians:
The British authorities ensured the safety and protection of individuals
who had converted to Christianity. This was done to prevent any backlash
or harm to those who had converted, as there were instances of violence
against converts during the rebellion.
- Freedom of Religion: The British
government proclaimed that individuals were free to choose and practice
their religion without any coercion or threat. They aimed to safeguard the
right of religious freedom, including the right to convert to
Christianity, without facing discrimination or persecution.
- Support for Missionary Activities:
The British administration continued to support and promotes missionary
activities in India. Missionaries were allowed to establish and run
schools, churches, and other religious institutions to propagate
Christianity.
- Legislation: The British
introduced various legislations to facilitate missionary work and protect
the rights of Christian converts. For example, the Indian Converts'
Marriage Dissolution Act, 1866, allowed converted individuals to divorce
their non-Christian spouses and remarry within the Christian community.
- Conversion Records: The British
authorities maintained records of conversions to Christianity. This was
done to ensure that converts received legal protection and was not
subjected to social or legal discrimination.
Overall, the British aimed to create a conducive environment
for the spread of Christianity in India and protect the interests of those who
chose to convert, especially in the wake of the 1857 rebellion. These measures
were part of the broader cultural and religious policies pursued by the British
colonial government in India during that period.
What objections did
the sepoys have to the new cartridges that they were asked to use?
In the 1857 uprising, the sepoys (Indian soldiers in the
British East India Company's army) had several objections to the new cartridges
that they were asked to use:
- Religious Concerns: The primary
objection was related to the grease used to lubricate the cartridges. The
cartridges were rumored to be greased with a mixture of pig and cow fat.
For the Hindu sepoys, the cow was considered sacred, and for the Muslim
sepoys, the pig was considered unclean. Using cartridges greased with
these substances was against their religious beliefs, and it deeply
offended their religious sentiments.
- Violation of Cultural Practices:
Loading the new cartridges required biting off the paper at both ends,
which was a practice that violated the cultural norms and customs of many
sepoys. In Indian society, sharing saliva, especially with people from
different castes or religions, was considered impure. Biting the
cartridges was seen as an affront to their culture.
- Fear of Forced Conversion: Some
sepoys believed that the British were deliberately trying to undermine
their religious beliefs and convert them to Christianity. The use of
cartridges greased with objectionable substances fueled this fear.
- General Discontent: Apart from
the cartridge issue, the sepoys were generally discontented with the
British East India Company's policies. They felt mistreated and
discriminated against, both in terms of pay and privileges. This
discontentment added to their willingness to protest against the use of
the new cartridges.
These objections to the new cartridges, particularly the
religious concerns, played a significant role in the outbreak of the 1857
revolt, also known as the Indian Mutiny or the First War of Independence. The
sepoys' refusal to use the cartridges was a key trigger for the rebellion,
which eventually spread to involve various sections of Indian society in a
broader struggle against British rule.
How did the last
Mughal emperor live the last years of his life?
The last Mughal emperor, Bahadur Shah II, also known as
Bahadur Shah Zafar, lived the last years of his life in very challenging and
tragic circumstances. After the Indian Rebellion of 1857, which was also known
as the Sepoy Mutiny or the First War of Independence, Bahadur Shah Zafar was
captured by the British.
Here's how he lived the last years of his life:
- Exile in Rangoon: Bahadur Shah
Zafar, along with his wife Zeenat Mahal and some family members, was
exiled to Rangoon, Burma (present-day Yangon, Myanmar) by the British
authorities. He was taken as a prisoner after the British quelled the
rebellion in 1858.
- Harsh Living Conditions: During
his exile, Bahadur Shah Zafar and his family lived in very harsh
conditions. They were given a small allowance by the British, but it was
barely enough to cover their basic needs. They lived in relative poverty.
- Isolation: Bahadur Shah Zafar was
kept in isolation from the local population and the Indian community in
Rangoon. He was not allowed to engage in any political or public
activities.
- Health Issues: The difficult
living conditions and the advanced age of Bahadur Shah Zafar took a toll
on his health. He suffered from various ailments, and his health
deteriorated rapidly.
- Cultural Contributions: Despite
his isolation and poor health, Bahadur Shah Zafar continued to write
poetry in exile. He was a notable Urdu poet, and some of his poems
expressed his longing for his homeland and the loss of his empire.
- Death: Bahadur Shah Zafar passed
away on November 7, 1862, in Rangoon. He was buried in a simple grave. His
death marked the end of the Mughal Empire, which had once been one of the
most powerful and culturally rich empires in the Indian subcontinent.
In summary, the last Mughal emperor, Bahadur Shah Zafar,
spent his last years in exile, facing hardships, isolation, and declining
health. His life in exile symbolizes the tragic decline of the Mughal Empire
and the end of an era in Indian history.
What
could be the reasons for the confidence of the British rulers about their
position in India before May 1857?
Certainly, the British rulers had several reasons for their
confidence about their position in India before the outbreak of the Indian
Rebellion of 1857 (also known as the Sepoy Mutiny). Here are some key factors
contributing to their confidence:
- Military Superiority: The British
East India Company had a well-trained and disciplined army, often referred
to as the "Sepoys" or Indian soldiers who served under British
officers. They had military technology, including modern rifles and
artillery, which gave them a significant advantage over Indian rulers and
their armies.
- Economic Control: The British had
established a firm grip on India's economy. They controlled trade and
resources, collecting revenue through systems like the Permanent
Settlement and the Ryotwari system. This economic control allowed them to
fund their military and administrative activities effectively.
- Political Dominance: The Doctrine
of Lapse and the annexation policy allowed the British to expand their
territorial control rapidly. By 1857, they had significant political
influence and control over most of India. They had also made several
Indian princely states subsidiary, which meant they had to accept British
suzerainty and provide troops when required.
- Divide and Rule: The British had
effectively used the policy of "divide and rule" to sow
divisions among different communities, princely states, and religious
groups. This policy weakened any unified opposition to British rule.
- Effective Administration: The
British introduced a well-organized administrative system, including a
unified legal code and efficient revenue collection. This helped in
governance and control over the vast subcontinent.
- Transport and Communication
Infrastructure: The British invested in developing transport and
communication networks, including railways, telegraphs, and roads. This
infrastructure facilitated the movement of troops and communication,
making their administration more efficient.
- Alliance with Indian Elites: The
British often formed alliances with Indian elites, including landlords,
merchants, and intellectuals. This secured support from influential
sections of Indian society.
- Lack of Unity Among Indians: The
Indian subcontinent was not unified but consisted of various regions,
languages, cultures, and rulers. There was no overarching sense of Indian
identity or unity at that time.
- Ignorance of Discontent: The
British authorities, located mostly in urban centers, were often unaware
of the simmering discontent among the Indian population, especially in
rural areas.
These factors collectively gave the British rulers a sense
of confidence in their control over India. However, the events of 1857 would
shatter this confidence and lead to a widespread rebellion against British
rule, marking a significant turning point in India's struggle for independence.
What
impact did Bahadur Shah Zafar’s support to the rebellion have on the people and
the ruling families?
Bahadur Shah Zafar's support to the rebellion had a
significant impact on both the people and the ruling families during the 1857
revolt.
- Inspiration to the Rebels:
Bahadur Shah Zafar, as the symbolic leader of the rebellion, provided
inspiration and legitimacy to the rebels. His involvement encouraged
people from various walks of life to join the uprising against British
rule. Many saw him as a symbol of the revival of Mughal power and
sovereignty.
- Unity among Different Communities:
The rebellion brought together people from diverse backgrounds, including
soldiers, peasants, sepoys, and nobility, under a common cause. Bahadur
Shah Zafar's support helped in bridging the gaps between various
communities and regions, fostering a sense of unity against British
oppression.
- Rising Hopes: Zafar's association
with the revolt raised hopes among the common people that the Mughal
Empire, albeit in a reduced form, would be restored. The prospect of an
Indian ruler coming back to power after centuries of British dominance was
a source of optimism for many.
- Challenge to British Authority: Zafar's
endorsement of the rebellion challenged British authority in India. It
transformed the uprising from a localized military mutiny to a broader
struggle for independence. The British viewed him as a symbol of
resistance and considered his capture a priority.
- Impact on Ruling Families: The
support extended by the ruling families, including the Mughals, to the
rebellion had consequences. After the suppression of the revolt, the
British implemented a policy of direct control over Indian princely
states, including the exile of Bahadur Shah Zafar to Rangoon (modern-day
Yangon, Myanmar). The rebellion and its aftermath weakened the authority
and autonomy of many princely states.
In summary, Bahadur Shah Zafar's support to the rebellion
galvanized the masses, kindled their hopes, and intensified the struggle
against British rule. However, it also led to significant repercussions for the
ruling families and the broader Indian political landscape, ultimately
hastening the end of the Mughal Empire and paving the way for modern India.
How did
the British succeed in securing the submission of the rebel landowners of Awadh?
In the context of the Indian Rebellion of 1857, the British
succeeded in securing the submission of the rebel landowners of Awadh (Oudh)
through a combination of strategies and actions:
- Annexation of Awadh: The
annexation of Awadh in 1856 was one of the main factors that led to the
rebellion. The British East India Company accused the local ruler, Wajid
Ali Shah, of misrule and annexed the region. This angered the landowners,
nobility, and sepoys of Awadh.
- Leadership: The British took
advantage of divisions within the rebel forces. Not all landowners and
sepoys supported the rebellion. Some of the local nobility either stayed
neutral or supported the British. This division weakened the rebel cause.
- Repression and Violence: The
British used brutal force to suppress the rebellion. They unleashed a
reign of terror in Awadh and other rebel regions. Villages were destroyed,
and people were killed, which instilled fear among the rebels and the
local population.
- Divide and Rule: The British
effectively used the policy of "divide and rule" to create
divisions among the rebels. They exploited communal and regional
differences to weaken the rebellion.
- Promises and Rewards: The British
promised amnesty to those who surrendered. They also assured the local
elite that their rights and property would be protected if they submitted
to British authority. These promises convinced some rebels to lay down
their arms.
- Military Superiority: The British
had a well-organized and disciplined army, which was equipped with modern
weapons and had better training. This military advantage gave them the
upper hand in confrontations with rebel forces.
- Capture of Key Leaders: The British
captured or killed several key rebel leaders, including Kunwar Singh and
Bahadur Shah II. This disrupted the rebel leadership and morale.
- Lack of External Support: The
rebels did not receive substantial support from foreign powers, while the
British were able to bring in reinforcements and supplies from Britain.
In summary, the British succeeded in securing the submission
of the rebel landowners of Awadh through a combination of military force,
political cunning, and the exploitation of divisions among the rebels. The
brutal repression and the ability to isolate and weaken the rebel leadership
were key factors in their success.
In what ways did the British change their policies as a
result of the rebellion of 1857?
The rebellion of 1857, often referred to as the Sepoy Mutiny
or the First War of Independence, had a profound impact on British policies and
rule in India. The events of 1857 forced the British to rethink and modify
several aspects of their governance and policies. Some of the significant
changes in British policies as a result of the rebellion are as follows:
- End of the East India Company's Rule:
One of the most immediate and consequential changes was the end of the
rule of the British East India Company. The British Crown formally took
over the administration of India through the Government of India Act of
1858. India came under direct British control, with the Governor-General
of India representing the British monarch.
- Abolition of the Doctrine of Lapse:
The Doctrine of Lapse, which allowed the British to annex princely states
if they lacked a male heir, was abolished. This change aimed at reducing
discontent among the Indian rulers and preserving their states.
- Religious Tolerance: The British
government adopted a more tolerant approach towards religious practices
and beliefs. They assured Indians that there would be no interference in
religious matters, which helped in calming religious tensions.
- Promotion of Indian Troops: The
British recognized the importance of Indian soldiers (sepoys) and
increased their numbers in the army. The recruitment process was revamped
to ensure fair treatment and reduce the chances of cultural and religious
sensitivities being offended.
- Indian Representation: Indians
were gradually allowed to participate in various administrative roles. The
Indian Councils Act of 1861 and subsequent reforms introduced a limited
form of representation for Indians in legislative bodies, albeit with
limited powers.
- Use of Vernacular Languages: The
British government realized the importance of local languages. Vernacular
languages were promoted, and government jobs were opened to Indians who
were well-versed in these languages.
- Social and Economic Reforms: The
British initiated social and economic reforms, such as outlawing practices
like sati and child marriage, and introducing land revenue systems.
However, these reforms were often met with resistance.
- Land Ownership: Land policies
were introduced to protect the rights of landowners. The Permanent Settlement
in Bengal and the Ryotwari System in Madras and Bombay Presidencies were
examples of these policies.
- Isolation of the Army: The
British attempted to prevent the unity of Indian soldiers from leading to
another mutiny. They isolated different regiments and maintained vigilance
over their activities.
- Censorship of Publications:
Strict censorship was imposed on publications and newspapers to control
the spread of nationalist and anti-British sentiments.
The rebellion of 1857 marked a turning point in the history
of British rule in India. While some of the changes in policies were made to
address Indian grievances and concerns, the British remained firmly in control.
These modifications aimed to consolidate British power and reduce the
likelihood of further uprisings. However, the struggle for India's independence
continued, eventually leading to the country's liberation in 1947.
Find
out stories and songs remembered by people in your area or your family about
San Satavan Ki Ladaai. What memories do people cherish about the great uprising?
The "San Satavan Ki Ladaai" refers to the Sepoy
Mutiny of 1857, also known as the Indian Rebellion of 1857. People have
cherished various stories and songs about this significant event in Indian
history. Here's a general answer to your question:
"In my area and among my family members, there are
several stories and songs that have been passed down through generations about
the 'San Satavan Ki Ladaai' or the Sepoy Mutiny of 1857. These stories and
songs hold a special place in our cultural memory, as they recount the bravery,
sacrifices, and struggles of our ancestors during this pivotal moment in Indian
history.
One of the commonly remembered stories is that of Rani
Lakshmibai of Jhansi, who is celebrated for her fearless leadership in the
rebellion. Her valor and determination to defend her kingdom against the
British forces are often sung about in folk songs. Similarly, the story of
Mangal Pandey, the soldier who refused to use the new cartridges and played a
crucial role in sparking the uprising, is also recounted with pride.
The songs from that era, known as 'Birha' and 'Rasia,'
capture the spirit of resistance and longing for freedom. They narrate the
struggles of the people against the British rule and their determination to
regain their independence. These songs often speak of sacrifice, unity, and the
desire for a free India.
People in our area also remember stories of local heroes and
heroines who took part in the rebellion. These stories are often shared during
family gatherings and community events, serving as a reminder of our shared
history and the sacrifices made by our forefathers.
Overall, the memories cherished by people in our area and
our family revolve around the courage and resilience displayed by our ancestors
during the 'San Satavan Ki Ladaai.' These stories and songs are a testament to
the indomitable spirit of the Indian people and their unwavering commitment to
achieving independence."
Find
out more about Rani Lakshmi bai of Jhansi. In what ways would she have been an
unusual woman for her times?
Rani Lakshmibai of
Jhansi, also known as the "Warrior Queen," was an
extraordinary figure in Indian history. She defied the norms and expectations
of her times in several ways:
- Warrior Queen: Rani Lakshmibai
was not only a queen but also a fearless warrior who actively participated
in battles. Her military leadership and combat skills were exceptional,
which was highly unusual for women during the 19th century in India.
- Defender of Her Kingdom: She
fiercely defended her kingdom, Jhansi, against the British East India
Company during the Indian Rebellion of 1857. Her determination to protect
her state from British annexation made her an exceptional leader.
- Independent Ruler: After the
death of her husband, Maharaja Raja Gangadhar Rao, she ruled Jhansi
independently. This level of authority and leadership was unusual for
women in a predominantly patriarchal society.
- Adoption of a Son: In an era when
male heirs were preferred, Rani Lakshmibai adopted a son named Damodar Rao
as her heir before her death. This act showcased her progressive thinking
and commitment to her kingdom.
- Role Model for Women: Her
courage, resilience, and dedication to her people made her a role model
not only for women in her time but also for generations to come. She
shattered gender stereotypes and proved that women could be strong and
capable leaders.
- Symbol of Resistance: Rani
Lakshmibai's role in the 1857 revolt against British colonial rule turned
her into an iconic symbol of resistance. She inspired countless
individuals to fight against oppression and foreign rule.
In many ways, Rani Lakshmibai was ahead of her time. Her
extraordinary qualities, courage, and her ability to challenge traditional
gender roles make her a remarkable historical figure, not just in India but
worldwide.
Answers
(i) The new law passed in 1850 made Answer: (a) conversion
into Christianity easier
(ii) The Revolt of 1857 began from: Answer: (d) Meerut
(iii) Mangal Pandey, a young soldier, was hanged to death
for Answer: (b) attacking his officers in Barrackpore
(iv) The Mughal emperor Bahadur Shah Zafar died in- Answer:
(a) the Rangoon jail
(v) The British regained control of the country in the year
Answer: (b) 1858
Question
Fill in the blanks with appropriate
words to complete each sentence.
1. In the countryside
peasants and zamindars resented the …………. and the rigid methods of collection.
2. The British passed
laws to stop the practice of …………….. and to encourage the …………. of widows.
3. The rebels rushed
to Delhi from Meerut and proclaimed ……………. as their leader.
4. Nana Saheb, the
adopted son of the late Peshwa Baji Rao, gathered armed forces and expelled the
……………. from the city.
5. ……………. fought a
guerrilla war against the British with the support of several tribal and
peasant leaders.
Answer
1.
In the countryside peasants and zamindars
resented the heavy taxes; revenue
and the rigid methods of collection.
2.
The British passed laws to stop the practice of sati
and to encourage the remarriage of widows.
3.
The rebels rushed to Delhi from Meerut and
proclaimed Bahadur Shah II also
known as Bahadur Shah Zafar as their leader.
4.
Nana Saheb, the adopted son of the late Peshwa
Baji Rao, gathered armed forces and expelled the British Garrison from
the city.
5.
Tantia Tope fought a guerrilla war
against the British with the support of several tribal and peasant leaders.
- None of the Indians wanted to change
existing social practices.
- In 1856, Governor-General Canning
decided that Bahadur Shah Zafar would be the last Mughal king.
- The Indian sepoys were unhappy about
their pay, allowances and conditions of service.
- The British could not repress the
revolt and called the rebels for negotiations.
- After the Revolt of 1857, the
Governor-General of India was given the title of Admiral-General.
Answer
- None
of the Indians wanted to change existing social practices.
- False. Many Indians wanted to
change existing social practices, particularly those associated with
caste-based discrimination and oppression.
- In
1856, Governor-General Canning decided that Bahadur Shah Zafar would be
the last Mughal king.
- True. Governor-General Canning
declared that Bahadur Shah Zafar would be the last Mughal king, marking
the symbolic end of the Mughal Empire.
- The
Indian sepoys were unhappy about their pay, allowances, and conditions of
service.
- True. Indian sepoys were
dissatisfied with their pay, allowances, and conditions of service, which
contributed to their discontent and participation in the revolt.
- The
British could not repress the revolt and called the rebels for
negotiations.
- False. The British were able to
suppress the revolt through military force, and negotiations with the
rebels were not the primary means of ending the revolt.
- After
the Revolt of 1857, the Governor-General of India was given the title of
Admiral-General.
- False. After the Revolt of 1857,
the title of Governor-General of India remained the same; there was no
change to "Admiral-General."
- Match
the items given in Column A correctly with those given in Column B.
Class 8
History Chapter 5 When People Rebel Very Short Answer Type Questions
- What
was Nana Saheb's request as the adopted son of Peshwa Baji Rao-II?
- Answer:
Nana Saheb requested to receive his father's pension upon his father's
passing.
- What
was the initial action taken by the Company to diminish the Mughal
dynasty's influence?
- Answer:
The Company removed the name of the Mughal king from the coins they
minted.
- Why
were the Indian sepoys dissatisfied with British rule?
- Answer:
The Indian sepoys were discontented because they received low pay.
- What
false belief spread among the sepoys of the Meerut regiment concerning the
new cartridges?
- Answer:
The false belief was that the new cartridges were greased with cow and
pig fat.
- After
being declared the leader of the rebels, what action did the aging Mughal
emperor Bahadur Shah Zafar take?
- Answer:
Bahadur Shah Zafar wrote letters to chiefs and rulers across the country,
urging them to unite in a confederacy against the British.
- Name
two smaller rulers who acknowledged Bahadur Shah Zafar's authority.
- Answer:
Nana Saheb and Biijs Qadr acknowledged Bahadur Shah Zafar's authority.
- Who
was Tantia Tope?
- Answer:
Tantia Tope served as the General of Nana Saheb.
- Who
was Ahmadullah Shah, and what was his prophetic statement?
- Answer:
Ahmadullah Shah, a maulvi from Faizabad, made a prophecy that the British
rule would soon come to an end.
- Who
was Bakht Khan?
- Answer:
Bakht Khan was a soldier from Bareilly who assumed leadership of a
significant force of fighters who came to Delhi.
- When
did the British regain control of Delhi?
- Answer:
The British recaptured Delhi in September 1857.
- Why
were the administrative powers of the East India Company transferred to
the British Crown?
- Answer:
The powers of the East India Company were transferred to the British
Crown to ensure more responsible management of Indian affairs.
- Under
what conditions could ruling chiefs pass on their kingdoms to their heirs?
- Answer:
Ruling chiefs could do so only if they were willing to recognize the
British Queen as their Sovereign Paramount.
- Why
were Muslims treated with suspicion and hostility by the British?
- Answer:
The British held the belief that Muslims played a significant role in the
rebellion, leading to suspicion and hostility towards them.
Class 8 History
Chapter 5 When People Rebel Short Answer Type Questions
Question 1: Under what pretext did the Company take over
Awadh?
Answer: In 1801, Awadh was brought under the control
of the British through a subsidiary alliance. In 1856, it was annexed. The
Governor-General, Dalhousie, claimed that Awadh was being poorly governed and
that British rule was necessary for better administration.
Question 2: How did the Company plan to bring an end to
the Mughal dynasty?
Answer:
- Initially,
the Company removed the name of the Mughal king from the coins it minted.
- In
1849, Governor-General Dalhousie announced that after the death of Bahadur
Shah Zafar, the royal family would be relocated from the Red Fort in
Delhi.
- In
1856, Governor-General Canning declared Bahadur Shah Zafar as the last
Mughal king, and his descendants were referred to as princes.
Question 3: Why were the Indian sepoys in the employ of
the Company discontented? Give sufficient reasons.
Answer: The discontentment among Indian sepoys was
caused by several reasons:
- They
received meager salaries and allowances.
- The
terms of service were unfavorable.
- Some
new rules infringed upon their religious beliefs.
- Many
Indians believed that crossing the sea would result in the loss of their
religion and caste. When ordered to go to Burma by sea in 1824, they
refused, leading to punishments.
- In
1856, a new law mandated that all new recruits in the Company's army
should be ready to serve overseas, further fueling discontent.
Question 4: What reforms did the British introduce in
Indian society? How did the people of India respond to them?
Answer: The British introduced various reforms:
- They
banned the practice of sati and encouraged widow remarriage.
- They
promoted English language education.
- In
1850, a law made conversion to Christianity easier.
The response to these reforms varied. Some Indians felt that
the British were undermining their religion and customs. However, others
welcomed the reforms and sought to change existing social practices.
Question 5: Why did the chiefs and rulers support the
Mughal emperor Bahadur Shah Zafar in the revolt?
Answer: Many smaller rulers and chieftains controlled
territories on behalf of the Mughal emperor, and they believed that restoring
the Mughal rule would allow them to regain control over their territories under
Mughal authority, countering British expansion.
Question 6: How did the British try to win back the
loyalty of the people after they recaptured Delhi?
Answer: The British attempted to regain the loyalty
of the people by:
- Offering
rewards to loyal landholders, allowing them to maintain traditional land
rights.
- Assuring
those who had rebelled that they would be safe if they surrendered to the
British and had not harmed any British individuals, and their land rights
would be preserved.