Which of the following pairs is correct regarding the East India Company army? I. Sawar – Men on horses II. Musket – A heavy gun used by infantry soldiers
Both I and II
Understanding East India Company Army Terms: Sawar and Musket
The question asks us to identify which of the given pairs is correct regarding the East India Company army. Let's examine each statement.
Analyzing Statement I: Sawar – Men on Horses
The term 'Sawar' is historically associated with cavalry soldiers, which are soldiers who fight while riding horses. In the context of armies, including those of the East India Company during the colonial period, a Sawar was indeed a horseman or cavalry trooper.
Therefore, the pair 'Sawar – Men on horses' is correct.
Analyzing Statement II: Musket – A Heavy Gun Used by Infantry Soldiers
A musket was a type of long, smoothbore gun used by infantry soldiers from the 16th to the mid-19th century. While not "heavy" in the sense of modern artillery, it was a substantial firearm carried and used by foot soldiers (infantry), especially compared to smaller handguns. Muskets were standard issue firearms for infantry regiments of the East India Company.
Therefore, the pair 'Musket – A heavy gun used by infantry soldiers' is also correct.
Conclusion on East India Company Army Terms
Since both Statement I (Sawar – Men on horses) and Statement II (Musket – A heavy gun used by infantry soldiers) are correct descriptions of terms related to military forces of the period, including the East India Company army, the option that states 'Both I and II' is the correct answer.
Based on the analysis:
- Statement I is Correct.
- Statement II is Correct.
Thus, both statements are correct.
| Term | Description | Correctness |
|---|---|---|
| Sawar | Men on horses (Cavalry soldier) | Correct |
| Musket | A heavy gun used by infantry soldiers | Correct |
Revision Table: East India Company Military Terms
| Term | Meaning | Role |
|---|---|---|
| Sawar | Horseman | Cavalry soldier, fought from horseback |
| Musket | Type of firearm | Main weapon for infantry soldiers |
| Infantry | Foot soldiers | Fought on foot, primarily used muskets |
| Cavalry | Soldiers on horseback | Used swords, lances, and pistols; also muskets at times |
Additional Information on East India Company Army Structure and Weapons
The East India Company, as it expanded its control in India, built a large army, primarily composed of Indian soldiers (sepoys) trained and led by British officers. This army was structured similarly to the British army and included different branches:
- Infantry: The largest part of the army, fighting on foot. Their primary weapon was the musket, later evolving to more advanced rifles. They also used bayonets for close combat.
- Cavalry: Soldiers who fought from horseback. They were known as Sowars (an anglicized term for Sawar) in the Company's service. They used swords, lances, and carbines (shorter muskets or rifles).
- Artillery: Units operating cannons and other heavy guns. Artillery was crucial for sieges and battles.
The muskets used underwent changes over time. Early models like the Brown Bess were common, later replaced by more modern firearms. The adoption of new weapons and training methods significantly influenced the Company's military capabilities.
Important Questions from Advent of Europeans
Which one of the following provisions wasnotinvolved in the treaty of Shrirangapattana between Tipu Sultan and the British?
In the first quarter of seventeenth century, in which of the following was/were the factory/factories of the English East India Company located?
1. Broach
2. Chicacole
3. Trichinopoly
Select the correct answer using the code given below.
________ was the first European to come to India.
Who led the British on behalf of British East India Company in the Battle of Plassey?
In the Battle of Plassey, who led the troops of the British East India Company?
