NCERT Solutions for Class 8 Social Science
History Chapter 1 Introduction: How, When and Where
Question 1 Page No. 8
NCERT Academic Session 2023-2024
What is the problem with the periodisation of Indian history that James Mill offers?
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Problems with James Mill’s Periodisation:
1. Eurocentric Bias: Mill’s categorization reflects a Eurocentric viewpoint, emphasizing British colonial rule as the starting point of Indian “civilization.”
2. Oversimplification: Dividing history into Hindu, Muslim, and British periods oversimplifies India’s complex socio-cultural evolution, neglecting diverse indigenous contributions.
3. Neglect of Indigenous History: Marginalizes indigenous Indian history, undermining its richness and depth, presenting it as subordinate to external influences.
4. Imposition of Western Framework: Imposing Western concepts fails to capture indigenous perspectives and continuity, distorting the understanding of India’s historical evolution.
5. Colonial Interpretation: Favors British colonial narratives, justifying British rule as a necessary stage of progress, overlooking the complexities of pre-colonial Indian society.
This framework lacks depth, distorts indigenous history, and reinforces colonial biases, offering a skewed understanding of India’s historical progression.