Chapter 3: Glimpses of the Past

English - Honeydew • Class 8

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Chapter Analysis

Intermediate9 pages • English

Quick Summary

The chapter 'Glimpses of the Past' presents pictorial representations of India's history from 1757 to 1857, leading up to the First War of Independence. It highlights the oppression faced by Indians under the British rule, the socio-economic impacts of British policies, and the awakening of Indian nationalism. The chapter covers key figures such as Tipu Sultan, Ram Mohan Roy, and depicts significant events and the growing discontent among the Indian populace.

Key Topics

  • British colonial expansion in India
  • Socio-economic impact of British policies
  • Role of Ram Mohan Roy in social reform
  • 1857 War of Independence
  • Indian resistance against British rule
  • Cultural and religious oppression under British rule
  • Reforms and modern education

Learning Objectives

  • Understand the timeline and events leading up to the 1857 revolt.
  • Identify the socio-economic changes imposed by British rule.
  • Discuss the contributions of Ram Mohan Roy to Indian society.
  • Analyze the causes and impacts of the 1857 War of Independence on Indian history.
  • Examine how British policies affected various social classes in India.
  • Evaluate the effectiveness of Indian resistance movements against colonial rule.

Questions in Chapter

Do you think the Indian princes were short-sighted in their approach to the events of 1757?

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How did the East India Company subdue the Indian princes?

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Quote the words used by Ram Mohan Roy to say that every religion teaches the same principles.

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In what ways did the British officers exploit Indians?

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Name these people.

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Mention the following.

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Change the following sentences into indirect speech.

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Additional Practice Questions

What impact did British economic policies have on Indian artisans?

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Answer: British economic policies, such as making imported British goods duty-free and imposing heavy taxes, devastated Indian artisans and local industries as they could not compete with the cheap, mass-produced British goods. This led to a loss of traditional livelihoods and increased poverty among artisans.

Explain how Ram Mohan Roy contributed to social reform in India.

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Answer: Ram Mohan Roy was a pioneer in Indian social reform. He advocated for the abolition of regressive practices like sati and child marriage, promoted modern education, and encouraged rational thinking and scientific knowledge. His efforts laid foundational ideas for India's modernization.

What role did the 1857 War of Independence play in Indian history?

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Answer: The 1857 War of Independence, also known as the Sepoy Mutiny, was a pivotal event in Indian history. It marked the first large-scale and organized resistance against British rule, inspired future generations in India's struggle for freedom, and highlighted the growing discontent and resentment against colonial policies.

Discuss the significance of the introduction of English education in India by the British.

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Answer: The introduction of English education by the British aimed to create a class of educated clerks to assist in administration. However, it inadvertently fostered a new class of intellectuals who would later challenge British authority and play crucial roles in India’s independence movement by using modern ideas and global knowledge.

Identify and analyze the reasons for discontent leading to the 1857 revolt.

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Answer: The discontent leading to the 1857 revolt was fueled by various factors: oppressive land revenue policies that hurt peasants, disrespect of social and religious practices by the British, exploitation and discrimination in the army, and widespread unemployment due to the destruction of local industries. These issues culminated in widespread anger and rebellion against colonial rule.