British Policies and their Impacts Class 8 ICSE History | Selina Chapter 9SST Social Science

Recent questions

• What was the impact of British rule on the Indian economy?

  The British rule had a significant impact on the Indian economy, particularly through the imposition of various revenue collection systems. The British Revenue System from 1765 to 1793, involving the East India Company collecting revenue in cash, led to a shift towards cash crops and food shortages. This system imposed high charges, resulting in farmers' debts, land loss, and the devastating Bengal Famine of 1770. Additionally, the Permanent Settlement of 1793 established by Lord Cornwallis in Bengal allowed landlords to gain permanent ownership of land and fixed revenue collection rights. While this system simplified revenue collection, it also led to exploitation of farmers, reduced government revenue, and neglect of land improvement. Overall, British rule negatively impacted the traditional village-based, self-dependent Indian economy.

• How did the British Revenue System affect Indian farmers?

  The British Revenue System, implemented by the East India Company from 1765 to 1793, had detrimental effects on Indian farmers. The system involved collecting revenue in cash, which led to a shift towards cash crops and food shortages. High charges imposed by the British resulted in farmers accumulating debts, losing land, and facing the devastating Bengal Famine of 1770. The system prioritized revenue collection over public welfare, leading to economic hardships for farmers. Additionally, the Permanent Settlement of 1793 allowed landlords to gain ownership of land and fixed revenue collection rights, further exploiting farmers. Overall, the British Revenue System negatively impacted Indian farmers by increasing their debts, reducing their land ownership, and contributing to agricultural challenges.

• What were the advantages and disadvantages of the Permanent Settlement of 1793?

  The Permanent Settlement of 1793, established by Lord Cornwallis in Bengal, had both advantages and disadvantages. Under this settlement, landlords gained permanent ownership of land and fixed revenue collection rights, leading to increased profits for landlords and simplified revenue collection. Landlords could mortgage or sell the land, and the post of zamindari became hereditary. However, the disadvantages included the exploitation of farmers, reduced government revenue, and neglect of land improvement. The system shifted control to landlords, leaving tenants with limited rights and subjecting them to the whims of the landlords. While the Permanent Settlement aimed to streamline revenue collection, it ultimately favored landlords over farmers, contributing to economic disparities and agricultural challenges in India.

• How did the decline of Indian crafts occur?

  The decline of Indian crafts was influenced by British policies, the Battle of Plassey in 1757, and the Industrial Revolution in England. British military and civil service personnel favored English goods over Indian products, leading to a decline in demand for Indian crafts. The Industrial Revolution caused machine-made clothes to dominate the market, making foreign goods cheaper and more popular than traditional Indian crafts. Lack of royal patronage and British disinterest in Indian goods further contributed to the decline. Additionally, the shift towards machine-made products and the competition from abroad affected local industries, leading to a decline in traditional handmade items. Overall, the decline of Indian crafts was a result of changing market preferences, foreign competition, and British policies that favored industrialization over traditional craftsmanship.

• How did Western education impact Indian society during British rule?

  Western education had a profound impact on Indian society during British rule, leading to significant societal changes and shifts in cultural practices. The introduction of English as the medium of education, as advocated by Lord Macaulay in 1835, aimed to create an English-speaking elite resembling the British in India. This Western education facilitated communication and unity among Indians, breaking down regional barriers and fostering a spirit of nationalism. The emergence of an English-speaking elite supported British rule and rejected Indian traditions in favor of British goods and customs. Western education also led to demands for democratic institutions and participation in national movements, as educated middle-class individuals adopted new practices and ideologies. Overall, Western education played a crucial role in shaping Indian society during British rule, influencing cultural norms, political movements, and societal structures.