Question

James Mill, a Scottish economist and politician, divided Indian history into three periods namely Hindu, Muslim and British. Which of the following was the reason for this division by him?

• A. According to Mill, before the British came to India, Hindu and Muslim dictators ruled the country.
• B. There was religious intolerance, caste discrimination and superstitious practices in the Indian society.
• C. He felt that European culture, arts and laws were necessary to uplift the downtrodden Indians.
• D. All of these

Answer 1

The correct option is D All of these

James Mill was born in 1773. He was a Scottish historian, economist, political theorist, and philosopher. His greatest literary work was the History of British India. He divided Indian history into three periods namely Hindu, Muslim and British. The following are the reasons for so doing:

1. According to Mill before the British came to India, Hindu and Muslim dictators ruled the country.

2. There were religious intolerance, caste discrimination and superstitious practices in Indian society.

3. Mill felt only the British could bring enlightenment and happiness to the Indians by refining them.

4. He felt that European culture, arts, and law were necessary to uplift the downtrodden Indians.