On an outline map of the subcontinent, mark out the areas described in this chapter. Find out whether there were other areas where the Permanent Settlement and the ryotwari system were prevalent and plot these on the map as well.
In the chapter the following areas have been mentioned of the subcontinent.
(a)Bengal. (Bangladesh along with certain area of Bihar, Orissa and hilly areas of Assam).
(b)Bombay Presidency and
(c)Madras Presidency,
(d)The Britishers introduced Mahalwari system of land revenue in eastern part of Punjab
(e)Surat
(f)Rajmahal hills (occupied by Paharias and Santhals).
What are the problems of using official sources in writing about the history of peasants?
How did the Paharias respond to the coming of outsiders?
Why was the jotedar a powerful figure in many areas of rural Bengal?
How did the American Civil War affect the lives of ryots in India?
In what way was the livelihood of the Paharias different from that of the Santhals?
Why did the Santhals rebel against British rule?
Why were many zamindaris auctioned after the Permanent Settlement?
What explains the anger of the Deccan ryots against Fig. 10.20 the moneylenders?
How did zamindars manage to retain control over their zamindaris?
Why did the mutinous sepoys in many places turn to erstwhile rulers to provide leadership to the revolt?
To what extent are census data useful in reconstructing patterns of urbanisation in the colonial context?
How did Mahatma Gandhi seek to identify with the common people?
What did the Muslim League demand through its resolution of 1940?
What were the ideals expressed in the Objectives Resolution?
Discuss the evidence that indicates planning and coordination on the part of the rebels.
What do the terms “White” and “Black” Town signify?
How was Mahatma Gandhi perceived by the peasants?
Why did some people think of Partition as a very sudden development?
How was the term minority defined by different groups?
How did women experience Partition?
Discuss the extent to which religious beliefs shaped the events of 1857.
What are the different colonial architectural styles which can be seen in Bombay city?
Why did some people think of Partition as a very sudden development?
To what extent are census data useful in reconstructing patterns of urbanisation in the colonial context?
How did Mahatma Gandhi seek to identify with the common people?
What historical forces shaped the vision of the Constitution?
Discuss the different arguments made in favour of protection of the oppressed groups.
How was non-cooperation a form of protest?
What were the measures taken to ensure unity among the rebels?