Yasmin Khan on the Indian Partition: India before colonization

The video features Yasmin Khan discussing the historical context of India before and during British rule. It explores whether India existed as a unified entity before the British Raj, comparing it to pre-nation-state Europe. The discussion covers the impact of British policies, including divide and rule strategies, and the resulting religious and racial divisions. The complexities of India's path to independence and the British desire to maintain a united India are also examined.

What was a key characteristic of India before the British Raj?

• A homogeneous religious society

• A unified nation-state

• A collection of diverse kingdoms

• A single language spoken throughout

What was one of the possibilities for India after the British left?

• Joining the Roman Empire

• Becoming a single unified nation

• Forming multiple independent states

• Remaining under British control

Why did the British prefer a united India?

• To promote cultural diversity

• To reduce administrative costs

• To create a strong future partner

• To simplify governance

What was a paradox in the British approach to India?

• They supported education but closed schools

• They encouraged industrialization but banned factories

• They promoted democracy but restricted voting rights

• They wanted to unite India but also fostered divisions

How did the British organize elections in India?

• Based on economic status

• Along religious lines

• According to age groups

• By geographic location

What was a reason for the British to employ 'divide and rule'?

• To simplify administration

• To promote cultural exchange

• To increase economic growth

• To prevent unified resistance

What stereotype did the British hold about different racial groups?

• Some groups were considered more loyal

• Some groups were seen as economically superior

• All groups were seen as equal

• All groups were viewed as conspirators