Question 6. Why were many zamindaris auctioned after the Permanent Settlement? The Permanent Settlement of 1793, introduced by Lord Cornwallis in the Bengal Presidency, was a landmark administrative reform implemented by the British East India Company. While it aimed to streamline land revenue collection and ensure a steady income for the British administration, it also … Read more
Question 7. In what way was the livelihood of the Paharias different from that of the Santhals? The livelihoods of the Paharias and the Santhals, two prominent tribal communities in eastern India, especially in the region of the Rajmahal Hills and adjoining areas, were distinct in their ways of subsistence, interaction with the environment, and … Read more
Question 8. How did the American Civil War affect the lives of ryots in India? The American Civil War (1861–1865) significantly impacted the global economy, including the lives of ryots (peasants) in colonial India. The war disrupted the supply of raw cotton from the southern United States to Britain, which was then the world’s largest … Read more
Question 9. What are the problems of using official sources in writing about the history of peasants? The problems of using official sources in writing about the history of peasants are multifaceted and must be carefully examined in the context of colonial historiography. Official records, which form the primary archival material for historians, reflect the … Read more
Question 1. Why was the jotedar a powerful figure in many areas of rural Bengal? The jotedar emerged as a powerful figure in many areas of rural Bengal due to several factors, particularly during the colonial period. Jotedars played a significant role in the agrarian economy and local governance. They were wealthy landlords who controlled … Read more