Topic: Modern Indian history from about the middle of the eighteenth century until the present- significant events, personalities, issues.
1. The peasant revolts and uprisings in 19th Century India against the colonial rule were not religious, but in most of the cases, religion did play very important role.” Discuss the nature of Peasant uprisings in 19th Century India with appropriate examples in the above context. (250 words)
Reference: Modern Indian History by Bipin Chandra
Why the question:
The question is part of the static syllabus of General studies paper – 1.
Key Demand of the question:
Explain in detail the nature of Peasant uprisings in 19th Century India with appropriate examples in the above context.
Directive:
Discuss – This is an all-encompassing directive – you have to debate on paper by going through the details of the issues concerned by examining each one of them. You have to give reasons for both for and against arguments.
Structure of the answer:
Introduction:
In the 19th century and early 20th century, there were hundreds of peasants and tribal movements, revolts or uprisings in India. Most of these revolts were suppressed by ruthless use of power by the British yet; they played a very significant role in the freedom struggle of the country.
Body:
Start by discussing the factors responsible for peasant revolts in the country in 19th century.
Highlight the non-religious factors, the occurrence of recurrent famines etc. then move onto explain how religion did play a key role; Religious Movements aimed for liberation of region or ethnic groups under new form of government or religious conflicts. During British era, the revolts belonging to this category include Kuka Revolt; Moplah Rebellion, etc. Explain these examples and justify.
Conclusion:
Conclude by highlighting the importance of such peasant uprisings in the freedom struggle of the country.
