The Bubonic Plague was a catastrophic pandemic that reached Bombay (now Mumbai) in 1896, rapidly spreading to various regions of India. This outbreak resulted in widespread illness and numerous fatalities, significantly impacting the population.
The British administration's reaction to the plague was marked by severe measures. They implemented surprise checks, enforced quarantines, and forcibly removed patients from their homes. These actions instilled fear and resentment among the Indian populace, leading to considerable unrest.
Accusations against the British army included disrespect towards women, destruction of personal property, and intrusive actions that violated personal spaces. Such behaviors fueled anger and dissatisfaction among Indians, exacerbating tensions during this critical period.
Bal Gangadhar Tilak emerged as a pivotal leader, journalist, and freedom fighter during this era. He edited the Marathi weekly Kesari, using this platform to advocate for Indian rights and self-rule.
Two notable articles, titled "Shivaji's Utterances" and a report on the Shivaji festival, criticized British rule. Tilak highlighted Indian grievances and emphasized the necessity for self-governance. The central theme was a call for resistance against British oppression.
Tilak faced charges of sedition under Section 124A of the Indian Penal Code due to his articles, which the British deemed seditious. His trial garnered significant attention and was a crucial moment in Indian history.
Ultimately, Tilak was found guilty and sentenced to 18 months of rigorous imprisonment. This trial and its consequences represented a turning point in the Indian freedom struggle, spotlighting the repressive actions of the British government and invigorating further resistance among Indians.
Q1. What was the Bubonic Plague and its impact in India?
Answer: The Bubonic Plague was a severe pandemic that hit India in 1896, leading to widespread illness and death, particularly in Bombay (Mumbai).
Q2. How did the British government respond to the outbreak?
Answer: The British response included forceful measures like surprise checks, quarantines, and removal of patients, causing fear and public unrest.
Q3. What role did Bal Gangadhar Tilak play during this period?
Answer: Tilak was an influential leader and journalist who used his writings to criticize British rule and advocate for Indian self-governance.
Q4. What were the consequences of Tilak's trial?
Answer: Tilak was sentenced to 18 months in prison, which highlighted British repression and spurred further resistance in the Indian freedom movement.
Q5. What themes were evident in Tilak's articles?
Answer: The articles focused on criticizing British oppression and emphasized the need for Indian self-rule and resistance against colonial rule.
Question 1: What was the main reason for the unrest during the Bubonic Plague in India?
A) Lack of medical facilities
B) British government's harsh response
C) Natural disasters
D) Economic policies
Correct Answer: B
Question 2: Who was Bal Gangadhar Tilak?
A) A British officer
B) An Indian freedom fighter
C) A journalist in Mumbai
D) Both B and C
Correct Answer: D
Question 3: Under which section was Tilak charged with sedition?
A) Section 123B
B) Section 124A
C) Section 125C
D) Section 126D
Correct Answer: B
Question 4: What was the outcome of Tilak's trial?
A) Acquitted
B) Sentenced to 6 months
C) Sentenced to 18 months
D) Exiled
Correct Answer: C
Question 5: What was a significant theme in Tilak's writings?
A) Support for British rule
B) Call for Indian self-rule
C) Economic development
D) Military strategies
Correct Answer: B
Question 6: What was one of the British army's accusations during the plague response?
A) Disrespecting local customs
B) Providing aid
C) Encouraging public health
D) Building hospitals
Correct Answer: A
Question 7: What did Tilak's articles highlight about British rule?
A) Its benefits
B) The need for reform
C) Indian grievances
D) Economic growth
Correct Answer: C
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