Question

Examine the sources of livelihood of the Paharias (hillfolk) of Rajmahal hills. How did they respond to the coming of Santhals ?

Answer 1

Around 1800 Santhals settled in Rajmahal hills.  

Explanation:

• The hill-folk who lived in this region was displaced by Santhals.  
• They chopped off many forests.  
• Around the 1780s they came to Bengal.  
• They were ideal settlers of Jangal mahals.  
• In 1838 they had forty villages.  
• Santhals were 3000 in 1838 but by 1851 they went up to 82,000.
• The British failed to tame Paharias and transformed them into agriculturists.
• Santhals got favour from the British as they were given foot-hills of Rajmahal.