Question

Colonial rulers often claimed that their mission was to ‘civilise’ the people they ruled. Based on the evidence in this chapter, do you think this was true in the case of India? Why or why not?

Answer 1

No, this claim was not true in the case of India. The British said that they came to “civilise” Indians by introducing modern education, law and order, railways, and other developments. However, their real objectives were economic exploitation and political control. The so-called “civilising mission” was largely used to justify British colonisation.

1. Economic Exploitation:

• Indian raw materials such as cotton, indigo, and spices were taken to support British industries.
• Indian industries, especially the textile industry, suffered because British goods were promoted in India.

2. Heavy Taxation and Famines:

• The British imposed high taxes on farmers and landowners.
• During the Famine of 1770–72, millions of people died, while the British continued collecting revenue instead of providing sufficient relief.

3. Destruction of Traditional Governance:

• The British weakened and removed many traditional Indian systems of governance.
• Local rulers were defeated or forced to accept unfair treaties and agreements.

4. Biased Education Policies:

• Macaulay’s education policy promoted English education and aimed to create Indians who were influenced by British ideas.
• These policies also affected India’s traditional education and cultural systems.