Summary and Question Answer of NCERT Class 8 History Chapter 8, Titled “Civilising the “Native”, Educating the Nation"
Summary and Question Answer of NCERT Class 8 History Chapter 8, Titled “Civilising the “Native”, Educating the Nation""
Summary/Question and Answer (Very Short Answer Question, Short Answer Question, Long Answer Question) / Assertion and Reasoning / Fill In the Blanks / Case Study Question and Answer
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Summary of the Chapter (Based on Common Themes):
"Civilising the 'Native', Educating the Nation." This chapter discusses the British colonial policies in India during the 19th and early 20th centuries, focusing on the efforts to 'civilize' the indigenous population through education and cultural assimilation. Here's a summary of the chapter:
Summary:
Introduction:
The chapter delves into the historical context of British colonialism in India and the changing attitudes of the British rulers towards the Indian culture and education system.
Macaulay's Minute and English Education:
Thomas Macaulay, a British official, advocated the promotion of English education in India. His famous 'Minute on Education' in 1835 argued for teaching English to create a class of interpreters between the British rulers and the Indians. This policy aimed to create a class of Indians who would be 'Indian in blood and color but English in taste, in opinions, in morals, and in intellect.'
Educational Reforms:
The chapter discusses the educational reforms introduced by the British, including the establishment of schools and colleges to impart English education. The emphasis on English education led to the neglect of traditional Indian languages and knowledge systems.
Impact on Indian Society:
The introduction of English education had a profound impact on Indian society. It created a divide between the Western-educated elite and the masses who lacked access to modern education. The chapter explores the social implications of this divide and the emergence of a new social class influenced by Western ideas.
Colonial Influence on Culture:
British colonialism also influenced Indian culture. The chapter examines how British cultural norms and values were imposed on Indian society, leading to changes in dress, manners, and social customs. Traditional practices were often viewed as backward and were discouraged.
Conclusion:
The chapter concludes by reflecting on the complex legacy of British colonial education in India. While English education opened new opportunities for some Indians, it also contributed to social inequalities and cultural dislocation. The chapter raises important questions about the nature of colonialism and its impact on education, society, and identity in India.
This summary provides an overview of the key themes and topics covered in Chapter 8 of the NCERT Class 8 Social Science textbook, "Civilising the 'Native', Educating the Nation."
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Short Question and Answers
Q1: What was the primary goal of the British education policy in colonial India?
A: The primary goal was to create a class of people who would assist the British in administration and also appreciate British culture and values.
Q2: Which famous missionary played a key role in the promotion of English education in India?
A: Thomas Babington Macaulay played a key role in the promotion of English education in India.
Q3: What was the significance of the Wood's Despatch of 1854?
A: The Wood's Despatch of 1854 laid the foundation for a systematic educational system in India, emphasizing the importance of primary education.
Q4: Why did the British introduce the policy of 'Macaulayism' in India?
A: Macaulayism aimed at promoting English education and culture, believing it to be superior and essential for modernization in India.
Q5: Who were the 'natives' referred to in the chapter's title?
A: The 'natives' referred to the people of colonial India, particularly those who were subjected to British rule.
Q6: What was the impact of English education on traditional Indian learning?
A: English education led to a decline in traditional Indian learning systems and languages.
Q7: How did education become a tool for social reform in colonial India?
A: Education provided a platform for social reform movements by spreading awareness about issues like caste discrimination and women's rights.
Q8: What were the challenges faced by women in accessing education during colonial rule?
A: Women faced societal prejudices and limited opportunities for education, and they were often discouraged from attending schools.
Q9: Who were the Sufis, and what role did they play in education?
A: Sufis were mystic saints who contributed to the spread of education by setting up khanqahs, centers of learning and spirituality.
Q10: What was the impact of colonial education on Indian industries?
A: Colonial education focused on producing clerks and administrators, neglecting technical and vocational skills, which hindered the growth of Indian industries.
Q11: How did education become a symbol of social status during colonial rule?
A: English education was seen as a symbol of modernity and social status, creating a divide between the educated elite and the masses.
Q12: What role did Christian missionaries play in education in colonial India?
A: Christian missionaries established schools and colleges, providing education to Indians while also spreading Christianity.
Q13: How did the British view traditional Indian education systems?
A: The British viewed traditional Indian education systems as backward and irrational, emphasizing the need for English education.
Q14: What were the limitations of the educational system introduced by the British in India?
A: The system had limited access, especially for women and lower castes, and it did not cater to the needs of the majority of the population.
Q15: Who were the Orientalists, and what was their perspective on Indian education?
A: Orientalists were scholars who studied Indian texts and languages, appreciating the richness of Indian culture and heritage.
Q16: What was the significance of the Calcutta Madrasa?
A: The Calcutta Madrasa was a prominent institution that combined traditional Islamic education with modern subjects, showcasing a blend of cultures.
Q17: How did education contribute to the growth of nationalism in India?
A: Education spread nationalist ideas, creating a sense of unity and identity among Indians, leading to the growth of the nationalist movement.
Q18: Why did the British emphasize the promotion of English literature and history in Indian schools?
A: The British believed that teaching English literature and history would instill loyalty to the British crown and create a class of people supportive of British rule.
Q19: What role did vernacular languages play in the educational system during colonial rule?
A: Vernacular languages were neglected in the educational system, leading to a decline in their usage and literary traditions.
Q20: How did education policies in British India differ from those in the Princely States?
A: Education policies in British India were uniform and centralized, while in Princely States, education policies varied, reflecting the autonomy of rulers.
Q21: What was the impact of English education on Indian culture and identity?
A: English education led to cultural changes, as traditional practices were often discouraged, and western values became more prominent.
Q22: Why did the British introduce the policy of 'downward filtration' in education?
A: 'Downward filtration' aimed to provide limited education to the masses through a trickle-down effect, focusing on producing a small educated class.
Q23: How did the British justify the imposition of their education system on Indians?
A: The British justified it by claiming that English education would uplift the natives, civilize them, and prepare them for administrative roles.
Q24: What was the role of educational institutions like Elphinstone College in colonial India?
A: Institutions like Elphinstone College provided higher education in English and Western subjects, producing graduates for administrative positions.
Q25: How did education become a tool for the cultural domination of India by the British?
A: Education became a means for the British to impose their language, culture, and values, eroding traditional Indian identity and heritage.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Very Short Answer Question related to the Chapter along with their Answers
Q1: What is the title of Chapter 8?
A1: Civilising the “Native”, Educating the Nation.
Q2: Who were the 'natives' in the colonial context?
A2: Indigenous people of colonized countries.
Q3: Name the famous missionary mentioned in the chapter.
A3: Thomas Babington Macaulay.
Q4: Which language did Macaulay propose as the medium of education in India?
A4: English.
Q5: What did the British believe was necessary for Indian education?
A5: Western education and English language.
Q6: Which Act was passed in 1835 to promote English education in India?
A6: The English Education Act.
Q7: Who established the three universities in India in 1857?
A7: Lord Canning.
Q8: What was the main aim of colonial education policy in India?
A8: To create a class of people who could help the British in administration.
Q9: What was the objective of the Wood's Despatch of 1854?
A9: To promote education in India.
Q10: Who were the 'subordinate staff' in the British administration?
A10: Indians employed in lower-ranking government jobs.
Q11: Which social reformer advocated the importance of education for women?
A11: Raja Ram Mohan Roy.
Q12: What were the 'vernacular' languages in the context of colonial education?
A12: Languages spoken by common people in a region.
Q13: Who were the 'dalits' in colonial India?
A13: The oppressed and marginalized communities, also known as untouchables.
Q14: What did Jyotirao Phule emphasize regarding education?
A14: Education for the lower castes and women.
Q15: Which British official supported the idea of educating the 'natives'?
A15: Lord William Bentinck.
Q16: Name the first English medium school in India.
A16: Hindu College in Benares (Varanasi).
Q17: Who was E.V. Ramasamy Periyar?
A17: Social reformer and politician from Tamil Nadu.
Q18: What was the impact of colonial education on traditional artisans?
A18: Many traditional artisans lost their patrons and livelihood.
Q19: What was the 'Tribal Sub-Plan' introduced for?
A19: To promote educational and economic development among tribal communities.
Q20: Which commission recommended the introduction of mass education in India?
A20: The Hunter Commission.
Q21: Who was Syed Ahmed Khan?
A21: An important Muslim reformer and educationist.
Q22: What was the significance of the 1857 Revolt in the context of education?
A22: It led to a reevaluation of British education policy in India.
Q23: Which social group faced discrimination in the colonial education system?
A23: Dalits (untouchables).
Q24: Who was Annie Besant?
A24: A prominent Theosophist, freemason, and supporter of Indian and Irish self-rule.
Q25: What role did education play in the process of nation-building in colonial India?
A25: Education played a crucial role in creating awareness and fostering a sense of nationalism among Indians.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
25 multiple-choice questions related to Chapter along with the correct options marked in brackets:
Who was the colonial power that implemented the policy of educating the native population?
A) British
B) French
C) Portuguese
D) Dutch
(A) British
The system of education introduced by the British in India aimed to:
A) Preserve indigenous cultures
B) Promote scientific research
C) Create a class of people who could assist the British in administration
D) Encourage artistic pursuits
(C) Create a class of people who could assist the British in administration
What was the main objective of the Wood's Despatch of 1854?
A) Promote primary education in India
B) Establish universities in India
C) Introduce English as the medium of instruction
D) Promote vocational education
(A) Promote primary education in India
Who were the early graduates of Calcutta University?
A) Peasants
B) British officials
C) Indians from elite families
D) Soldiers
(C) Indians from elite families
The Vernacular Press Act of 1878:
A) Allowed Indian newspapers to publish without restrictions
B) Imposed restrictions on the Indian press
C) Encouraged freedom of speech
D) Promoted indigenous languages in newspapers
(B) Imposed restrictions on the Indian press
The system of education introduced in India by the British was based on the model of education in:
A) Britain
B) China
C) Greece
D) Rome
(A) Britain
The Hunter Commission of 1882-83 was appointed to:
A) Investigate the functioning of the railways in India
B) Examine the state of primary education in India
C) Evaluate the economic policies of the British government
D) Study the agricultural practices in India
(B) Examine the state of primary education in India
Which religious group started educational reform movements in the 19th century?
A) Hindus
B) Christians
C) Muslims
D) Sikhs
(A) Hindus
Who was the founder of the Aligarh Movement?
A) Raja Ram Mohan Roy
B) Sir Syed Ahmed Khan
C) Swami Vivekananda
D) Bal Gangadhar Tilak
(B) Sir Syed Ahmed Khan
The main aim of the Aligarh Movement was to:
A) Promote traditional Indian education
B) Spread Christianity in India
C) Modernize Muslim education and promote scientific knowledge
D) Preserve ancient Indian texts and languages
(C) Modernize Muslim education and promote scientific knowledge
The Macaulay's Minute of 1835 advocated for the promotion of education in:
A) Persian language
B) English language
C) Sanskrit language
D) Arabic language
(B) English language
The system of education introduced in India by the British was criticized for:
A) Being too affordable for the common people
B) Being based on traditional Indian knowledge systems
C) Promoting critical thinking and analytical skills
D) Focusing on rote learning and memorization
(D) Focusing on rote learning and memorization
The education system introduced by the British in India emphasized the study of:
A) Ancient Indian texts
B) European literature and science
C) Islamic theology
D) Buddhist scriptures
(B) European literature and science
Who was the prominent leader of the social reform movement in Maharashtra who advocated for education for all, irrespective of caste and gender?
A) Raja Ram Mohan Roy
B) Jyotirao Phule
C) Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar
D) Swami Vivekananda
(B) Jyotirao Phule
The Ilbert Bill controversy was related to:
A) Education reforms in India
B) Judicial reforms in India
C) Land revenue policies in India
D) Taxation policies in India
(B) Judicial reforms in India
Who among the following advocated for the promotion of modern education for women in India?
A) Jyotirao Phule
B) Ramakrishna Paramhansa
C) Swami Vivekananda
D) Pandita Ramabai
(D) Pandita Ramabai
The Brahmo Samaj, founded by Raja Ram Mohan Roy, advocated for:
A) Caste-based discrimination
B) Monotheism and social reforms
C) Preservation of ancient traditions
D) Exclusivity of Vedic knowledge
(B) Monotheism and social reforms
The Sarda Act of 1929 was related to:
A) Child labor regulation
B) Widow remarriage
C) Women's education and age of marriage
D) Land reforms
(C) Women's education and age of marriage
Who was the first Indian woman to obtain a medical degree in colonial India?
A) Indira Gandhi
B) Sarojini Naidu
C) Kadambini Ganguly
D) Rani Lakshmibai
(C) Kadambini Ganguly
The Vernacular Press Act of 1878 led to widespread protests among:
A) Farmers
B) Merchants
C) Journalists and writers
D) Religious leaders
(C) Journalists and writers
Which of the following was a key feature of the educational system introduced by the British in India?
A) Emphasis on indigenous languages
B) Focus on vocational training
C) Introduction of English as the medium of instruction
D) Equal educational opportunities for all castes and genders
(C) Introduction of English as the medium of instruction
Who was the British official responsible for implementing the policy of education in India as outlined in the Wood's Despatch?
A) Lord Curzon
B) Lord Dalhousie
C) Lord Macaulay
D) Lord William Bentinck
(D) Lord William Bentinck
The Indian Councils Act of 1892 expanded the legislative councils by allowing for the inclusion of:
A) British officials only
B) Indian members elected by Indians
C) Indian members nominated by the Viceroy
D) Religious leaders only
(C) Indian members nominated by the Viceroy
The curriculum introduced in colonial schools aimed to:
A) Preserve indigenous knowledge and traditions
B) Promote scientific and rational thinking
C) Discourage questioning and critical thinking
D) Focus solely on religious studies
(B) Promote scientific and rational thinking
Who was the Viceroy of India when the Vernacular Press Act was passed?
A) Lord Curzon
B) Lord Dalhousie
C) Lord Ripon
D) Lord Cornwallis
(A) Lord Curzon
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
25 fill-in-the-blank questions related to the chapter along with the solutions:
Questions:
1. Lord Macaulay's Minute on Education aimed at ___________ the Indian population.
Answer: Modernizing
2. The official language of British India, according to Macaulay, was ___________.
Answer: English
3. The focus of the education policy during the British rule was to create a class of ___________.
Answer: Interpreters
4. The Wood's Despatch of 1854 laid the foundation for a ___________ system of education in India.
Answer: Systematic
5. The emphasis of Wood's Despatch was on ___________ education.
Answer: Vernacular
6. The Vernacular Press Act of 1878 was aimed at curbing the ___________.
Answer: Indian Press
7. The education policy of the British aimed at producing ___________ who would assist in administration.
Answer: Clerks
8. The ___________ was established in 1885 and played a crucial role in the Indian freedom struggle.
Answer: Indian National Congress
9. The syllabus of the Vernacular schools included religious texts and ___________.
Answer: Moral lessons
10. The education policy of British India aimed at creating a sense of ___________ among the Indians.
Answer: Inferiority
11. The British introduced the ___________ system in schools and colleges.
Answer: Grading
12. The Hunter Commission recommended the introduction of ___________ education in schools.
Answer: Technical
13. The ___________ movement emerged as a response to the British education policy in India.
Answer: Swadeshi
14. The Ilbert Bill controversy highlighted the ___________ in British India.
Answer: Racial Discrimination
15. The ___________ system was introduced to recruit Indian civil servants.
Answer: Competitive Examination
16. The ___________ aimed at providing education to Indian girls.
Answer: Bethune School
17. The Macaulay's Minute is associated with the year ___________.
Answer: 1835
18. The ___________ system of education was introduced in colleges during British rule.
Answer: University
19. The Vernacular Press Act was passed in the year ___________.
Answer: 1878
20. The Wood's Despatch is named after ___________.
Answer: Charles Wood
21. The ___________ was formed in response to the partition of Bengal.
Answer: Swadeshi Movement
22. The Indian National Congress was founded by ___________.
Answer: Allan Octavian Hume
23. The Vernacular schools were primarily meant for the ___________ class.
Answer: Lower
24. The Hunter Commission was appointed in the year ___________.
Answer: 1882
25. The Ilbert Bill controversy took place in the year ___________.
Answer: 1883
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
25 True/false statements related to Chapter along with the solutions:
1. True/False: The British colonialists believed that their culture was superior to the Indian culture.
• True: British colonialists did consider their culture superior to Indian culture.
2. True/False: The British introduced the English education system in India to empower the native population.
• False: The British introduced English education primarily to create a class of people who would be “Indian in blood and color but English in taste, in opinions, in morals, and in intellect.”
3. True/False: The Macaulay Minute of 1835 emphasized the promotion of Indian languages in schools.
• False: The Macaulay Minute of 1835 emphasized the promotion of English education and the English language in schools.
4. True/False: Indian languages were completely neglected under the British education system.
• True: Indian languages were often neglected and were not given much importance in the British education system.
5. True/False: Vernacular languages refer to the languages spoken by a particular region or community.
• True: Vernacular languages refer to the languages spoken by a specific region or community.
6. True/False: The Wood's Despatch of 1854 recommended the promotion of education in India.
• True: The Wood's Despatch of 1854 recommended the promotion of education in India.
7. True/False: The British provided equal educational opportunities for all sections of the Indian society.
• False: The British did not provide equal educational opportunities; education was primarily accessible to the elite and the upper castes.
8. True/False: Social reformers like Jyotirao Phule advocated for education for women and lower castes.
• True: Social reformers like Jyotirao Phule advocated for education for women and lower castes.
9. True/False: The curriculum introduced by the British focused on Indian traditions and knowledge systems.
• False: The curriculum introduced by the British did not focus on Indian traditions and knowledge systems; it was primarily based on Western education.
10. True/False: The Hunter Commission of 1882 was responsible for educational reforms in India.
• True: The Hunter Commission of 1882 was responsible for recommending educational reforms in India.
11. True/False: The British viewed Indian education as a means to create a class of people who would assist in their administration.
• True: The British education system aimed to create a class of people who would serve as clerks and administrators for the British government.
12. True/False: Nationalist leaders like Dadabhai Naoroji criticized the British education system in India.
• True: Nationalist leaders like Dadabhai Naoroji criticized the British education system for its failure to address the needs of the Indian society.
13. True/False: The Indian Education Act of 1901 increased government control over schools and colleges.
• True: The Indian Education Act of 1901 increased government control over schools and colleges in India.
14. True/False: The British discouraged the study of ancient Indian texts and literature in schools.
• True: The British discouraged the study of ancient Indian texts and literature in favor of Western education.
15. True/False: Vernacular schools provided education in local languages.
• True: Vernacular schools provided education in local languages spoken in specific regions.
16. True/False: The British colonialists encouraged the growth of indigenous industries in India.
• False: The British colonialists did not encourage the growth of indigenous industries; they focused on promoting industries that served British interests.
17. True/False: The introduction of English education led to a decline in traditional Indian crafts and industries.
• True: The introduction of English education led to a decline in traditional Indian crafts and industries, as people sought jobs in the newly emerging sectors.
18. True/False: The British education system in India was primarily designed to promote scientific and technical education.
• False: The British education system focused more on creating a class of clerks and administrators rather than promoting scientific and technical education.
19. True/False: Indian leaders like Mahatma Gandhi supported the British education system.
• False: Indian leaders like Mahatma Gandhi criticized the British education system and advocated for a more inclusive and culturally relevant education.
20. True/False: The Vernacular Press Act of 1878 aimed to suppress the Indian vernacular press.
• True: The Vernacular Press Act of 1878 aimed to suppress the Indian vernacular press, giving the government the power to confiscate and censor newspapers in local languages.
21. True/False: Indian women had equal access to education under the British colonial rule.
• False: Indian women did not have equal access to education; their education was often neglected and limited, especially in rural areas.
22. True/False: The British colonialists believed that introducing English education would create a class of loyal subjects.
• True: The British colonialists believed that English education would create a class of people who would be loyal to the British government and serve their interests.
23. True/False: The Indian Education Commission of 1882 recommended the promotion of female education.
• True: The Indian Education Commission of 1882 recommended the promotion of female education in India.
24. True/False: The British introduced educational institutions in India with the aim of preserving Indian culture and traditions.
• False: The British introduced educational institutions with the aim of promoting Western education and culture.
25. True/False: Indian leaders and intellectuals universally supported the British education system in India.
• False: Indian leaders and intellectuals were divided in their opinions about the British education system, with many criticizing it for its limitations and biases.
10 Long Answer Question related to the Chapter along with their solutions:
Question 1: How did the British justify their educational policies in India during the colonial period?
Answer: The British justified their educational policies in India by claiming that they were civilizing the "natives." They believed that introducing English education and Western values would help in the social and cultural upliftment of the Indian society. According to them, Western education would also create a class of interpreters who could facilitate communication between the British rulers and the local people, thereby serving the colonial administration.
Question 2: Explain the role of missionaries in the spread of education in colonial India.
Answer: Missionaries played a significant role in the spread of education in colonial India. They established schools and colleges, focusing on providing education to Indians, including girls and lower castes, which was a departure from the traditional education system. Missionary schools often emphasized the importance of English education and converted many students to Christianity, leading to cultural changes in Indian society.
Question 3: Discuss the impact of the Vernacular Press Act on the Indian press during the colonial period.
Answer: The Vernacular Press Act was a draconian law imposed by the British colonial government, aimed at curbing the freedom of the Indian press. It required Indian-language newspapers to submit their reports to the government for scrutiny. This led to self-censorship among Indian newspapers, as they feared punitive actions. The Act stifled the growth of independent journalism in India, limiting the freedom of expression and suppressing voices of dissent.
Question 4: Describe the changes brought about by the educational policies of the British in India.
Answer: The British educational policies in India brought about significant changes in the Indian society. English education became a symbol of social status and upward mobility. It created a new class of Indians who were familiar with Western ideas and philosophies. However, it also created a divide between the educated elite and the masses who lacked access to such education. Moreover, traditional systems of education were marginalized, leading to a loss of indigenous knowledge and skills.
Question 5: How did education become a tool for social and political reform in colonial India?
Answer: Education became a tool for social and political reform in colonial India by empowering individuals with knowledge and awareness. Educated Indians began questioning social evils like caste discrimination and advocated for reforms. They also played a vital role in the freedom struggle, as education instilled a sense of national identity and unity among Indians. Educated leaders emerged, leading various movements against colonial rule, demanding self-governance and social justice.
Question 6: Discuss the challenges faced by women in accessing education during the colonial period.
Answer: Women faced numerous challenges in accessing education during the colonial period. Society held conservative beliefs about women's roles, limiting their educational opportunities. However, efforts by social reformers and missionaries led to the establishment of schools for girls. Although limited, this education provided some basic skills. Yet, these schools were often underfunded and lacked proper facilities. Moreover, women's education was primarily focused on domestic skills, reinforcing traditional gender roles.
Question 7: Analyze the impact of Macaulay's Minute on the education system in India.
Answer: Lord Macaulay's Minute had a profound impact on the education system in India. His proposal to promote English education as a means to create a class of interpreters transformed the educational landscape. English became the medium of instruction, giving rise to a new elite class proficient in Western knowledge. However, it also led to the neglect of indigenous languages and cultures. This policy created a division between those educated in English and the masses, further reinforcing social disparities.
Question 8: How did the British educational policies lead to cultural changes in India?
Answer: British educational policies led to cultural changes in India by promoting Western values and knowledge. English education became a symbol of modernity and progress. It influenced the way Indians dressed, communicated, and perceived their own culture. The younger generation, educated in English schools, often adopted Western lifestyles and beliefs, leading to a cultural shift away from traditional practices. This cultural transformation created a complex blend of Indian and Western elements in society.
Question 9: Explain the role of the press in the Indian freedom struggle.
Answer: The press played a crucial role in the Indian freedom struggle by disseminating information, raising awareness, and mobilizing public opinion against colonial rule. Newspapers and journals became platforms for nationalist leaders to express their ideas and critique British policies. They inspired people to join the freedom movement, uniting them under the common goal of independence. The press also exposed the atrocities of the British government, garnering support from both within India and the international community.
Question 10: Discuss the significance of the 1854 Wood's Despatch in shaping the educational system in India.
Answer: The 1854 Wood's Despatch laid the foundation for the modern educational system in India. It emphasized the importance of promoting education at all levels and proposed a systematic approach to education, including the establishment of universities and colleges. The Despatch advocated for state funding of education and the introduction of English as the medium of instruction. This policy framework shaped the structure of education in colonial India, setting the stage for the development of a standardized, centralized education system that combined Western and indigenous knowledge.