Which of the following historian divided Indian history into the Hindu, Muslim, and British periods?
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: D
Explanation
Correct Answer:
Option 4: James Mill
Explanation:
James Mill, a British historian, divided Indian history into three periods—Hindu, Muslim, and British—in his book "History of British India." This classification was based on a colonial perspective and is now considered biased because it oversimplified India’s complex and diverse history. However, it remained influential for a long time and is frequently asked in exams.
Additional Facts:
Option 1: James Rennel was a geographer, not related to this classification.
Option 2: R.C. Majumdar was an Indian historian but did not divide history this way.
Option 3: V.D. Savarkar was a freedom fighter, not associated with this classification.
Probable Exam Questions:
Q: Which book was written by James Mill?
A: History of British India
Q: On what basis did he divide Indian history?
A: Religious basis
Q: Why is this classification criticized?
A: It is biased and oversimplified
Q: What was the main characteristic of colonial historiography?
A: A biased perspective.