Civilising The Native Educating The Nation - Class 8 History - Extra Questions

Name some of the pioneers who helped the establishment of educational institutions during British India.

Raja Rammohan Roy, Raja Radhakanta Deb, Tejchandra Rai Bahadur of Burdwan, David Hare, the watchmaker of Scotland, were the individuals who were pioneers who forced the establishment started a movement in the direction of western education. Likewise, from the British side Lord Bentinck, Charles Wood, Lord Macaulay were the main pioneers who advocated the establishment of western educational institutions with the medium of communication in the English Language.


What were the Social and Cultural changes?

In 19th century, awareness among the people about what was happening in the world was much more than in previous centuries. This process was facilitated by the British rule in India. Comparison with European thought and practices led to a questioning of the traditional practices and rituals. The spread of western education also had a major role to play in this. Some people tried to bring about changes in the country, politically and socially. Many of these social changes in the country, ultimately paved the way for its modernisation.


Why did William Jones feel the need to study Indian history, philosophy and law?

William Jones felt the need to study Indian history, philosophy and law because:-

1. He had a great respect for both India and West. According to him, the Indian ancient culture had attained its glory in the past but declined over a period of time.

2. The ancient text had the ideas, laws and facts about the past and they could be considered important for the future development in India.




Why did James Mill and Thomas Macaulay think that European education was essential in India?

James Mill and Thomas Babington Macaulay thought that European education was essential for India because they were of the opinion that the knowledge of the East was unscientific, illogical and irrational. They contended that the western education was scientific and logical. James Mill believed that Indians should be given the knowledge of scientific and technical advancements which have been made in the West. 


Answer the following questions in six sentences:
The British education system created a new generation of Indians with progressive attitudes. Justify. 

The British completely changed education in India. The biggest change was the introduction of the western style education (which has not changed since then) with the language of instruction being English. 
The traditional educational system in which students learnt various subjects in temples, mosques and gurukuls were replaced by a system of schools and universities based on the system in the West. 
British rule brought many disadvantages to education in India as well. While promoting western ideals and thought, the British also discouraged Indian culture and philosophy. The study of Indian history from an euro-centric point of view was introduced. 


Why did Mahatma Gandhi want to teach children handicrafts?

Western education, Mahatma Gandhi said, focused on reading and writing rather than oral knowledge;  it valued textbooks rather than lived experience and practical knowledge. He argued that education ought to develop a person’s mind and soul. Literacy – or simply learning to read and write – by itself did not count as education. People had to work with their hands, learn a craft, and know how different things operated. This would develop their mind and their capacity to understand. Thus, Gandhiji wanted to teach children handicraft.


Class 8 History Extra Questions