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The CBSE Class 8 Social Science History chapter "When People Rebel" takes students back to the year 1857, to the sepoy mutiny, a pivotal moment in India's struggle for independence. It's a tale of courage, unity, and the indomitable spirit of a nation under colonial rule.

Introduction to CBSE Class 8 Social Science History Chapter "When People Rebel"

In “When People Rebel,” students explore the events of the 1857 uprising against British rule, also known as the First War of Indian Independence. The chapter delves into the causes of the rebellion, such as the discontent with British policies, the introduction of new rifles that offended religious sentiments, and the underlying desire for freedom. It paints a vivid picture of the various leaders who emerged, their strategies, and the challenges they faced.

The narrative discusses the significant battles, the capture of Delhi, the role of Rani Lakshmibai of Jhansi, and the ultimate suppression of the revolt by the British. The chapter also reflects on the consequences of the rebellion, including the reorganization of the British army and administration in India, and the end of the East India Company’s rule, leading to direct governance by the British Crown.

Assignments for CBSE Class 8 Social Science History Chapter “When People Rebel”

  1. Analyze a Leader: Choose one leader from the rebellion, research their contributions, and write a biographical sketch.
  2. Debate the Causes: Hold a debate on which cause was the most significant in triggering the 1857 revolt.
  3. Diary Entry: Write a diary entry from the perspective of a sepoy involved in the rebellion.
  4. Map the Rebellion: On a map of India, mark the key locations where significant events of the rebellion took place.
  5. Compare Rebellions: Research another historical rebellion and compare it with the 1857 Indian uprising in terms of causes, scale, and impact.

Conclusion The chapter “When People Rebel” offers a detailed exploration into a turning point in India’s history that set the stage for future resistance against colonial rule. It underscores the importance of understanding historical struggles for freedom and the profound impact of collective action in shaping nations.

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Questions and Answers for CBSE Class 8 Social Science History Chapter "When People Rebel"

  1. Q1: What sparked the Sepoy Mutiny in 1857? ANS: The introduction of new rifle cartridges greased with pig and cow fat, which were offensive to Muslim and Hindu religious beliefs, was a major spark for the mutiny.
  2. Q2: Who were some prominent leaders of the rebellion? ANS: Prominent leaders included Rani Lakshmibai of Jhansi, Nana Sahib, Tantia Tope, and Bahadur Shah Zafar.
  3. Q3: What were the British East India Company’s policies that led to discontent? ANS: Policies like the Doctrine of Lapse, high taxation, and disrespect for local customs and religions led to widespread discontent.
  4. Q4: How did the British react to the rebellion? ANS: The British responded with significant military force, leading to the brutal suppression of the revolt.
  5. Q5: What changes did the British government implement after the rebellion? ANS: After the rebellion, the governance of India was taken over by the British Crown, leading to reorganization of the army and administration to prevent such revolts.
  6. Q6: Why is the Revolt of 1857 considered a significant event in Indian history? ANS: It is considered significant because it was the first large-scale and unified rebellion against British rule and set the stage for the national freedom movement.
  7. Q7: What role did the Indian princes play during the revolt? ANS: Many Indian princes either supported the British or remained neutral, but some, like Rani Lakshmibai, played active roles in opposing British rule.
  8. Q8: How did the revolt affect the common people of India? ANS: The common people suffered due to the harsh reprisals and destruction caused by the British forces, but the revolt also awakened a widespread nationalist sentiment.
  9. Q9: What was the significance of the capture of Delhi in 1857? ANS: The capture of Delhi was significant as it served as a symbolic seat of power and its capture by the rebels was a major blow to British authority.
  10. Q10: How did the 1857 rebellion shape the future of the Indian independence movement? ANS: The rebellion shaped the future of the independence movement by demonstrating the possibility of a united stand against the British and inspiring subsequent generations to fight for freedom.

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