NCERT History Solutions for Class 8: Chapter 5 – When People Rebel – 1857 and After

When People Rebel – 1857 and After – Class 8 NCERT Solution is all about how the anger of people in India against the East India Company, and the hardships they faced due to the company’s policies. The chapter opens with the outbreak of the 1857 insurrection, which began in Meerut in March 1857 and was led by members of several communities. These NCERT Solutions are prepared by our Top Social Science Experts to take care of all Important Topics that might be asked in the upcoming examination 2024-2025. So, Students can refer to these solutions for their final Examination preparation.

This Class 8 Social Science Chapter 5 When People Rebel – 1857 and After NCERT Solutions are carefully developed using easy-to-understand language while adhering to the guidelines for solving NCERT Solutions for Class 8. Working through these solutions can be highly beneficial for students in their board exams, as well as in preparing for future competitive Exams.

NCERT History Solutions for Class 8: Chapter 5 – When People Rebel – 1857 and After

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NCERT Solutions Class 8 History Chapter 5 – When People Rebel – 1857 and After

Exercise Pages No 63-64

Q1. What was the demand of Rani Lakshmibai of Jhansi that was refused by the British?

Answer:

Rani Lakshmibai of Jhansi’s demand that was refused by the British was her request to recognize her adopted son as the heir to the throne of Jhansi after the death of her husband, Maharaja Gangadhar Rao. The British East India Company, however, refused to accept her adopted son as the legitimate heir and instead annexed the kingdom of Jhansi under the Doctrine of Lapse, which allowed them to annex princely states without a direct heir. This refusal by the British led to Rani Lakshmibai’s active involvement in the Indian Rebellion of 1857 against British rule.

Q2. What did the British do to protect the interests of those who converted to Christianity?

Answer:

To protect the interests of those who converted to Christianity during British rule in India, several measures were implemented:

The British enacted laws to protect the rights of converts to Christianity, ensuring their freedom to practice their religion without discrimination or persecution. The British established missionary schools and colleges, providing education to Christian converts and providing them opportunities for social and economic advancement. Christian missionaries and organizations often provided social support, including healthcare, housing, and employment assistance, to converts who may have faced social ostracism or economic hardship due to their conversion.

In some cases, the British provided land grants or economic aid to Christian converts, particularly in regions where they faced opposition or discrimination from their communities. Christian converts were sometimes given political representation and opportunities for leadership roles in local administration, providing them with a voice in governance and decision-making processes.

Q3. What objections did the sepoys have to the new cartridges that they were asked to use?

Answer:

The objections that the sepoys had to the new cartridges they were asked to use during the Indian Rebellion of 1857 caused from several factors:

Animal Fat: The cartridges were reportedly greased with animal fat, derived from cows and pigs, which was offensive to both Hindu and Muslim sepoys. For Hindus, the cow is considered sacred, while Muslims consider the consumption of pork prohibited (haram).

Religious Beliefs: The use of cartridges greased with animal fat violated the religious beliefs and dietary restrictions of the sepoys, leading to widespread discontent and outrage among the troops.

Rumors of Contamination: Rumors circulated among the sepoys that the animal fat used in the cartridges was intentionally designed to defile their religious beliefs and convert them to Christianity, further fueling their objections.

Violation of Sepoy Code: The use of cartridges greased with animal fat was seen as a violation of the traditional sepoy code, which mandated respect for religious beliefs and customs within the ranks of the army.

Q4. How did the last Mughal emperor live the last years of his life?

Answer:

The last Mughal emperor, Bahadur Shah II, also known as Bahadur Shah Zafar, lived the last years of his life in exile and obscurity. After the Indian Rebellion of 1857, in which he was proclaimed the leader of the uprising, Bahadur Shah Zafar was captured by the British forces. He was subsequently tried for treason and exiled to Rangoon (present-day Yangon) in British-controlled Burma (present-day Myanmar) along with several family members. Bahadur Shah Zafar spent his remaining years in confinement, living a life of poverty and isolation.

Bahadur Shah Zafar lived in Rangoon in terrible conditions, with few resources and inadequate medical treatment. He died on November 7, 1862, at the age of 87, after a decline in health.

Q5. What could be the reasons for the confidence of the British rulers about their position in India before May 1857?

Answer:

Before May 1857, the British rulers in India were confident about their position in the country due to several reasons:

• The British East India Company had a powerful and well-trained military force that had effectively defeated different regional powers and kings throughout India. This military superiority gave the British government confidence in their capacity to maintain control of India’s vast territory.
• Through a combination of diplomacy, alliances, and military conquests, the British had established political dominance over most parts of India.
• The British had established a system of economic exploitation in India, extracting wealth through taxation, land revenue, trade monopolies, and other revenue-generating mechanisms.
• The British had developed an effective administrative infrastructure in India, characterized by efficient bureaucracy, judicial systems, and governance mechanisms.
• The British also had technological advantages over indigenous powers, particularly in terms of military weaponry, communication systems, transportation, and industrial capabilities.

Q6. What impact did Bahadur Shah Zafar’s support for the rebellion have on the people and the ruling families?

Answer:

Bahadur Shah Zafar’s support for the uprising during the Indian uprising of 1857 had a significant impact on both the general population and the governing dynasties. As the symbolic leader of the rebellion, his support provided legitimacy and enthusiasm to the insurgents, uniting various organizations in a united cause against British rule. His announcement as the rebellion’s leader mobilized people from every aspect of life, encouraging widespread participation in the revolution throughout India.

However, his involvement called into question the legitimacy of British-aligned governing families, causing many to reconsider their allegiances. Following the violent end of the rebellion, the British retaliated harshly against Bahadur Shah Zafar’s supporters, not only against the rebels but also against the Mughal dynasty and other royal families suspected of supporting the uprising. This resulted in harsh punishments such as banishment, property confiscation, and executions, indicating the broad impact of his participation in the rebellion.

Q7. How did the British succeed in securing the submission of the rebel landowners of Awadh?

Answer:

The British secured the submission of rebel landowners in Awadh through military suppression, divide and rule tactics, and economic incentives.

They used large armed forces, exploited internal splits among rebel groupings, pardoned those who surrendered, seized the properties of non-compliant leaders, and repressed dissenters. This combination of coercive and strategic measures worked to bring down resistance and establish British power in the region.

Q8. In what ways did the British change their policies as a result of the rebellion of 1857?

Answer:

The British implemented several policy changes in response to the Rebellion of 1857:

• The British government abolished the rule of the East India Company and transferred control of India directly to the British Crown through the Government of India Act 1858. This marked the beginning of direct British rule in India, known as the British Raj.
• The Doctrine of Lapse, which allowed the British to annex states without direct heirs, was abolished. Instead, treaties were renegotiated with Indian princely states, ensuring their continued autonomy under British suzerainty.
• The British government centralized control over India by establishing a unified administrative system and a centralized army under British command. This helped prevent future uprisings by consolidating power in British hands.
• The British promoted the spread of Western education and culture in India to promote loyalty to the British Crown and weaken indigenous traditions. English became the medium of instruction in schools, and British values were emphasized.
• The British reorganized the Indian army, reducing the proportion of Indian soldiers (sepoys) and increasing recruitment of British troops. They also introduced new recruitment policies to prevent another uprising among the sepoys.
• The British strengthened censorship and monitoring to put down opposition and prevent the rise of anti-British sentiment. Publications, meetings, and groups considered dangerous were strictly watched and suppressed.

Q9. Find out stories and songs remembered by people in your area or your family about San Sattavan ki Ladaai. What memories do people cherish about the great uprising?

Answer:

“San Sattavan ki Ladaai,” also known as the Rebellion of 1857 or the Indian Mutiny, holds a significant place in Indian history and memory.

Heroic Tales of Resistance: Many stories revolve around the bravery and sacrifice of Indian rebels who fought against British colonial rule during the uprising. These narratives often highlight the courage of individuals and communities who rose up against oppressive British policies and sought to reclaim their independence.

Legends of Leaders: The uprising produced several legendary figures who led the rebellion in different regions of India. Stories and songs often celebrate leaders like Rani Lakshmibai of Jhansi, Tantia Tope, Kunwar Singh, and Mangal Pandey, among others, portraying them as symbols of resistance and patriotism.

Songs of Struggle: Folk songs and ballads passed down through generations recall the events of the revolt, expressing the spirit of rebellion and the desire for liberty. These songs frequently describe battles fought, injustices suffered, and the people’s determination in the face of hardship.

Q10. Find out more about Rani Lakshmibai of Jhansi. In what ways would she have been an unusual woman for her times?

Answer:

Rani Lakshmibai of Jhansi, born Manikarnika Tambe and later known as Lakshmi Bai, was a prominent figure in the Indian Rebellion of 1857 and a symbol of resistance against British colonial rule. She ruled the princely state of Jhansi in northern India and played a significant role in the uprising against British domination. Here are some ways in which she would have been considered unusual for her times:

• Leadership and Military Skills: Rani Lakshmibai displayed exceptional leadership qualities and military powers, which were uncommon for women in her era.
• Resistance of Widowhood Conventions: After the death of her husband, Maharaja Gangadhar Rao, Rani Lakshmibai refused to comply with the prevalent customs of purdah (seclusion) and sati (self-immolation).
• Military Leadership in Battle: During the Rebellion of 1857, Rani Lakshmibai led her forces into battle against the British East India Company troops, showing remarkable courage and strategic prowess on the battlefield.
• Inspiration to Women: Rani Lakshmibai served as an inspiration to women across India, encouraging them to assert their rights and fight against oppression.
• Legacy of Courage and Sacrifice: Rani Lakshmibai’s legacy as a warrior queen and freedom fighter continues to inspire admiration and reverence.

FAQs on NCERT Solutions for Class 8 History: Chapter 5 – When People Rebel – 1857 and After

What was the significance of the revolt of 1857?

The revolt of 1857 marked the first widespread uprising against British rule in India and laid the foundation for India’s struggle for independence.

Who were the key leaders of the rebellion?

Key leaders included Rani Lakshmibai of Jhansi, Tantia Tope, Mangal Pandey, and Bahadur Shah Zafar, among others.

What were the causes of the revolt of 1857?

Causes included grievances among sepoys over cartridges greased with animal fat, economic exploitation, resentment towards British social and cultural policies, and fear of religious conversion.

How did the British respond to the revolt?

The British responded with brutal reprisals, military suppression, and policy changes such as the abolition of the East India Company’s rule and the transfer of control to the British Crown.

What were the long-term impacts of the revolt of 1857?

Long-term impacts included the end of the East India Company’s rule, increased British control over India, repressive measures against Indians, and the emergence of nationalist sentiments leading to later movements for independence.