Queation 9. Examine any two sources presented in the chapter, choosing one visual and one text, and discuss how these represent the point of view of the victor and the vanquished.
To examine the point of view of the victor (the British) and the vanquished (the Indians) during the Revolt of 1857, we can analyze one visual source and one textual source from historical records. Here’s an analysis:
- Visual Source: “The Relief of Lucknow” (1859) by Thomas Jones Barker
Description:
This painting depicts British forces, led by General Henry Havelock, arriving to relieve the besieged British residents in Lucknow.
It shows British soldiers as heroic saviors, with women and children looking at them with hope and gratitude. The scene emphasizes order, discipline, and compassion among the British.
Representation of the Victor’s Point of View:
Heroism and Superiority: The British are shown as protectors and saviors, portraying their moral and military superiority.
Control and Justification: The painting emphasizes British resilience and their “civilizing mission,” justifying their actions in suppressing the revolt.
Dehumanization of Rebels: The Indian rebels are entirely absent, erasing their role and resistance from the narrative.
Historical Interpretation:
This visual served as propaganda to reinforce British authority and justify their presence in India after the revolt.
- Textual Source: An excerpt from “The Azamgarh Proclamation” (1857)
Description:
This proclamation, attributed to rebel leader Fazl-e-Haq Khairabadi, was issued to rally Indians against British rule. It appeals to landowners, soldiers, and the general public to unite and overthrow colonial authority.
Representation of the Vanquished’s Point of View:
Resistance to Oppression: The text emphasizes the exploitation of Indians under British rule, such as economic drain and land confiscations, calling for collective resistance.
Unity and Nationalism: It appeals to shared cultural and religious values, urging Hindus and Muslims to unite against a common enemy.
Legitimacy of the Revolt: The proclamation frames the rebellion as a righteous struggle for freedom and justice.
Historical Interpretation:
The proclamation reflects the grievances of the Indian population and their attempts to rally people under a unified cause. It highlights the aspirations for independence and the rejection of colonial dominance.
Comparative Analysis:
Victor’s Perspective: The painting portrays the British as benevolent rulers, suppressing the reality of their violent retaliation and the widespread resentment against their rule.
Vanquished’s Perspective: The proclamation offers a voice to the rebels, emphasizing their suffering and determination to fight against oppression.
Together, these sources reflect the contrasting narratives of the Revolt of 1857: one of imperial triumph and another of resistance and defiance. These representations help us understand how history is shaped by power dynamics and the perspectives of those involved.