Question

What is the problems with the periodization of Indian history that James Mill offers?​

Answer 1

Answer:

a) James Mill divided history on the basis of the religion of the rulers of the times. However, a variety of faiths existed simultaneously in these periods.

b) This periodization ignores the social, political and economic changes from one era to another. One cannot refer to any era as the era of any particular religion.

c) The main problem with the periodization of Indian history is that Mill only looked from the point of the rulers, not from the point of view of native Indian.

d) Mill, through his periodization, suggested that British rule could civilize India.

e) Mill even suggested that the British should conquer all the Indian territories to ensure the enlightenment and happiness of all. He thinks that India was not capable of progress without British help.

JAI SHREE RAM

Answer 2

The problem with the periodisation of Indian History that James Mill offers is that he divided the Indian history into three periods – Hindu, Muslim and British. However, the periodisation of Indian History on the basis of religion is not feasible for many reasons.

a. It is not right to classify an age according to the religion of the rulers as a variety of faiths other than Hinduism and Islam existed in the period categorized as Hindus and Muslims. All
the rulers in the Ancient or Medieval period did not share the same faith.

b. According to his prejudiced version of Indian History,the British rule represents all the forces of progress and civilisation, whereas the period before the British showcased darkness, ignorance and religious intolerance.