The Rowlatt Act of 1919 was termed as the ________ Act.
Black
Understanding the Rowlatt Act of 1919 and its Nickname
The Rowlatt Act, officially known as the Anarchical and Revolutionary Crimes Act, 1919, was a legislative act passed by the Imperial Legislative Council in Delhi on March 18, 1919. This act was highly unpopular in India because it gave the British government enormous powers to repress political activities. It allowed for the detention of political prisoners without trial for up to two years and gave the police powers to search premises without a warrant.
The act was based on the recommendations of the Rowlatt Committee, chaired by Sir Sidney Rowlatt. The committee was formed to assess the political situation in India and recommend measures to deal with revolutionary activities.
Why the Rowlatt Act was Called the Black Act
Due to its draconian provisions that curtailed fundamental rights and allowed arbitrary detention and trials without jury, the Rowlatt Act was widely condemned by Indian leaders and the public. It was seen as a direct attack on civil liberties.
Nationalist leaders and the common people protested against this act, terming it as oppressive and unjust. It came to be popularly known as the "Black Act" because of its repressive nature and its impact on basic human rights and freedoms.
Analyzing the Options
Let's look at the given options in the context of the Rowlatt Act:
- Red Act: This term is not commonly associated with the Rowlatt Act of 1919.
- Black Act: As explained above, this was the popular term used to describe the repressive Rowlatt Act of 1919.
- Blue Act: This term is not commonly associated with the Rowlatt Act of 1919.
- White Act: This term is not commonly associated with the Rowlatt Act of 1919.
Therefore, the term popularly associated with the Rowlatt Act of 1919 is the "Black Act".
Conclusion
The Rowlatt Act of 1919 was a highly controversial law passed by the British Indian government. It was vehemently opposed by Indians and was popularly known as the Black Act due to its harsh and repressive nature.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Official Name | Anarchical and Revolutionary Crimes Act, 1919 |
| Popular Name | Black Act |
| Key Provision 1 | Allowed detention without trial for up to 2 years. |
| Key Provision 2 | Trials could be held without juries. |
| Passed On | March 18, 1919 |
| Opposition | Widespread protests across India, led to the Jallianwala Bagh massacre. |
Revision Table: Key Terms and Concepts
| Term | Description |
|---|---|
| Rowlatt Act | The Anarchical and Revolutionary Crimes Act, 1919, a repressive British law in India. |
| Black Act | Popular nickname for the Rowlatt Act, highlighting its unjust nature. |
| Sidney Rowlatt | Chairman of the committee whose recommendations led to the act. |
| Passive Resistance | Method of protest planned by Gandhiji against the act. |
Additional Information: Impact of the Rowlatt Act
The Rowlatt Act led to widespread protests and unrest across India. Mahatma Gandhi called for a nationwide 'hartal' (strike) on April 6, 1919, as part of a non-violent civil disobedience movement against the act. The protests were particularly intense in Punjab.
One of the most tragic consequences of the protests against the Black Act was the Jallianwala Bagh massacre on April 13, 1919. British troops, under the command of General Dyer, fired upon a large, peaceful crowd gathered in Amritsar, leading to hundreds of deaths and injuries. This event significantly impacted the Indian freedom struggle, consolidating nationalist sentiment and galvanizing support for Gandhi's movement.
Important Questions from National movement (1885 - 1919)
Who among the following was among the founders of the Jugantar Party?
With reference to Madanapalle of Andhra Pradesh, which one of the following statements is correct?
Who among the following was associated as Secretary with Hindu Female School which ‘later came to be known as Bethune Female School?
Champaran Satyagraha was launched in which of the following years?
Who founded Mohammedan Anglo-Oriental college?
