The Resistance Before 1857 GK MCQs guide explores the various uprisings and resistance movements that took place in India prior to the landmark Revolt of 1857. Through multiple-choice questions (MCQs) with detailed explanations, this section highlights the brave efforts of local rulers, tribal communities, and common people who stood against British colonial rule. Understanding these early acts of defiance, such as the Sanyasi Rebellion, Vellore Mutiny, and the tribal revolts, is crucial for grasping the larger context of India’s fight for freedom, especially for those preparing for competitive exams.
1. What were the primary reasons behind the Koli Uprising?
1. Extensive unemployment.
2. Dismantling of their forts.
Select the correct option:
- Only 1
- Only 2
- Both 1 & 2
- Neither 1 & 2
Show Answer
Answer: Both 1 & 2
The Koli community, primarily residing in the western coastal regions of India, staged multiple revolts against the British East India Company during the 19th century. These revolts occurred in 1829, 1839, and during 1844-48. The Kolis rebelled mainly due to widespread unemployment and the dismantling of their forts. The British colonial policies disrupted their traditional way of life, leaving many without livelihoods. These revolts were localized and aimed at regaining control over their territories and traditional structures.
2. Under whose leadership did the Khasis, Garos, Khamptis, and Singhpos unite during the Khasi Uprising?
- Siddhu and Khanu
- Tirath Singh
- Phond Sawant
- None of the above
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Answer: Tirath Singh
The Khasi Uprising was an armed rebellion led by indigenous communities in the northeastern regions of India, including the Khasis, Garos, Khamptis, and Singhpos. This uprising was triggered by the construction of a road connecting the Brahmaputra valley with Sylhet. The road construction led to an influx of outsiders into the Khasi Hills, affecting the indigenous way of life. The local communities, under the leadership of Tirath Singh, organized against these changes, aiming to protect their land and traditions.
3. Specify the year of the Sawantwadi Revolt:
- 1844
- 1848
- 1852
- 1856
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Answer: 1844
The Sawantwadi Revolt took place in 1844 in the Ratnagiri district of Maharashtra. Phond Sawant, a Maratha sardar (chief), led this uprising. The revolters, including fellow sardars, captured forts in the region. The revolt was a reaction to various socio-political issues, including the Maratha sardars’ dissatisfaction with the British administration and the loss of their traditional power and privileges. This revolt was a localized resistance against British rule.
4. Who led the Gadkari Revolt?
- Daji Krishna Pandit
- Birsa Munda
- Tirath Singh
- None of the above
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Answer: Daji Krishna Pandit
The Gadkari Revolt of 1844 occurred in the Kolhapur region of Maharashtra and was led by the Gadkaris. Daji Krishna Pandit emerged as the leader of this revolt. The Gadkaris were hereditary servants associated with Maratha forts that were disbanded by the British. The revolt aimed at protecting their livelihoods and traditional roles. This uprising was a response to the significant changes brought about by British rule in the region.
5. Under whose leadership did the Santhal Rebellion commence?
- Sidhu Murmu
- Birsa Munda
- Both A and B
- None
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Answer: Sidhu Murmu
Santhal rebellion started under the leadership of Sidhu Murmu.
6. What instigated the revolt led by Velu Thampi?
- Britishers’ endeavor to oust Velu Thampi from the dewanship position.
- Imposition of a burdensome levy on the state through the Subsidiary Alliance System.
Select the correct option:
- Only 1
- Only 2
- Both 1 & 2
- Neither 1 & 2
Show Answer
Answer: Both 1 & 2
The revolt of Velu Thampi took place in Travancore in 1809. Velu Thampi Dalawa was the Dewan (chief minister) of Travancore, and the British aimed to remove him from his position. This was primarily a political revolt against the British, triggered by the imposition of the Subsidiary Alliance System, which placed a heavy burden on the state. Velu Thampi’s rebellion was an attempt to resist British interference in the governance of Travancore.
7. During whose viceroyalty did the First Round Table Conference take place?
- Lord Willingdon
- Lord Linlithgow
- Lord Reading
- Lord Irwin
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Answer: Lord Irwin
The First Round Table Conference was held in November 1930 during the tenure of Lord Irwin as the Viceroy of India. This conference was part of a series of discussions and negotiations aimed at addressing the constitutional future of India. Various political leaders, including Mahatma Gandhi and representatives from different communities and princely states, participated in the conference. The discussions laid the foundation for future constitutional developments, although a final agreement was not reached at this stage. These conferences were crucial in shaping India’s path toward self-governance and eventual independence from British colonial rule.
8. Who led the Santhal Rebellion against the British in 1855-56?
- Rani Lakshmibai
- Kunwar Singh S
- idhu Murmu
- Tantia Tope
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Answer: idhu Murmu
Sidhu Murmu, along with his brother Kanhu Murmu, led the Santhal Rebellion against the British in Bihar and Bengal.
9. The Paika Rebellion, an armed uprising against the British East India Company, took place in which state?
- Odisha
- Bihar
- Punjab
- Assam
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Answer: Odisha
The Paika Rebellion occurred in Odisha in 1817, led by the Paikas (land-owning militia).
10. The Polygar Wars were fought in which region of South India?
- Kerala
- Tamil Nadu
- Karnataka
- Andhra Pradesh
Show Answer
Answer: Tamil Nadu
The Polygar Wars took place in the Madurai region of Tamil Nadu, where local chieftains (polygars) resisted British authority.
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