This chapter explains how history is studied, classified, and why dates are important. It teaches how British historians divided Indian history into Hindu, Muslim, and British periods and why this classification is misleading.
British officials were obsessed with documentation. They set up record rooms and archives, making it possible for historians to access detailed data today. Surveys like census, revenue settlements, and maps helped British control India but also left rich sources for historians.
This chapter explains how the British East India Company transformed from traders into rulers between the 18th and 19th centuries.
The Company used clever diplomacy, military superiority, and economic pressure. They defeated powerful rulers like Tipu Sultan and subdued the Marathas. The British also reorganized revenue systems, judiciary, and administration.
This chapter covers how the British controlled Indian agriculture and revenue.
The British aim was profit. They transformed Indian agriculture into an export-oriented system, which weakened food security and created deep rural distress. Their policies helped British industries but destroyed India’s village economy.
Tribal societies were affected by British colonial policies, forest laws, and interference by outsiders called ‘Dikus.’
This chapter highlights the disruption of traditional economies, cultural suppression, and resistance movements. It shows how British rule reshaped even the most remote communities.
The Revolt of 1857 was India’s first major rebellion against British rule. It began as a military mutiny and spread across northern India.
The uprising revealed the anger and resentment against colonial rule. Although it failed, it deeply shook British confidence and led to administrative reforms.
This chapter explores how colonial rule transformed urban centers like Delhi, Calcutta, Bombay, and Madras.
Colonial cities became centers of administration, trade, and culture but also of inequality. Old urban patterns changed, and new hierarchies emerged.
This chapter discusses the decline of traditional industries under British rule and the rise of factories.
The colonial economy destroyed indigenous crafts and industries, reshaping India’s economic landscape. It also created new classes of industrialists and workers.
This chapter focuses on colonial education policies and debates between Orientalists and Anglicists.
Colonial education shaped Indian nationalism by creating a class of educated Indians who later challenged British rule.
This chapter explores social reform movements in 19th-century India addressing issues like women’s rights and caste discrimination.
Social reform movements laid the foundation for later political struggles and redefined Indian society.
This chapter examines the transformation of art under colonial rule and the emergence of new forms like printmaking and photography.
The changing visual culture reflected India's evolving identity under colonialism, combining tradition and modernity.