The Viceroy Lord Curzon partitioned Bengal in _________.
Understanding the Partition of Bengal by Lord Curzon
The question asks about the specific year in which the Partition of Bengal was carried out by the then Viceroy of India, Lord Curzon. This event was a significant administrative and political decision made during the British Raj.
What was the Partition of Bengal?
The Partition of Bengal was the separation of the largely Muslim eastern areas from the largely Hindu western areas of the Bengal Presidency. The British government stated that the large size of Bengal made it difficult to administer effectively and efficiently. However, many believed the partition was a deliberate attempt to divide the Bengali population along religious lines to weaken the growing nationalist movement in Bengal, which was a hotbed of political activism.
Lord Curzon and the Partition
Lord Curzon served as the Viceroy of India from 1899 to 1905. He was known for various administrative reforms, and the Partition of Bengal was one of the most controversial actions during his tenure. The decision to partition Bengal was officially announced and implemented during his viceroyalty.
The Year of the Partition
After much planning and discussion, the Partition of Bengal was formally implemented in the year 1905. The new provinces created were Eastern Bengal and Assam, and the remaining part of Bengal.
Impact and Reaction
The Partition of Bengal in 1905 led to widespread protests and opposition across India, particularly in Bengal. The Swadeshi movement and Boycott movement gained momentum as a direct response to the partition. People boycotted British goods and promoted Indian-made products. There were mass protests, strikes, and demonstrations.
Key reactions included:
- Widespread protests and demonstrations.
- Emergence of the Swadeshi movement promoting Indian industries.
- Boycott of British goods.
- Increased unity between Hindus and Muslims in the initial phase of protest (though the partition was intended to divide them).
- Growth of nationalist feelings and activities.
Why other options are incorrect
The Partition of Bengal by Lord Curzon specifically took place in 1905. The years 1902, 1903, and 1904 fall before the actual implementation of the partition plan.
Key Facts about the Partition of Bengal 1905
| Aspect | Detail |
|---|---|
| Event | Partition of Bengal |
| Viceroy | Lord Curzon |
| Year of Implementation | 1905 |
| Reason (Official) | Administrative convenience |
| Reason (Widely Believed) | To weaken nationalist movement by dividing Hindus and Muslims |
Revision Table: Lord Curzon and Bengal Partition
| Event | Key Figure | Year | Significance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Partition of Bengal | Lord Curzon | 1905 | Divided Bengal; sparked Swadeshi & Boycott movements |
Additional Information: Aftermath of Bengal Partition
The intense protests and opposition following the 1905 Partition of Bengal eventually led to its annulment. The partition was finally annulled in 1911 by Lord Hardinge, largely due to the strong nationalist movement it had fueled. However, the annulment also led to the creation of a separate province of Bihar and Orissa, and Assam became a chief commissionership again. The capital of British India was also shifted from Calcutta to Delhi in 1911.
Important Questions from Viceroy and Governor
Which Governor General of Bengal underwent impeachment proceedings in the British Parliament?
Consider the following statements related to Wellesley's administration:
1) In the six years of Wellesley's administration, the army accounted for 42.5 percent of the Company's total expenditure.
2) Wellesley's administrative measures were restricted to the affairs of the Company and had nothing to do with the commercial and military affairs of the Indian ruling families.
Which of the statement/s given above is/are correct?Who among the following introduced the Permanent Settlement of Bengal in 1793?
Soon after the formation of Indian National Congress, the British became suspicious of nationalists. Who among the following called Congress representing only the elite --'a microscopic minority'?
Zamindari System was introduced by ________ in 1793.
