Which term was generally used to refer to the local language or dialect by British?
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: A
Explanation
Correct Answer:
Vernacular
Explanation:
During the British colonial period in India, the term 'vernacular' was generally used to refer to the local language or native speech of a specific region, distinguishing it from English or standard classical languages. It became widely recognized through laws like the Vernacular Press Act of 1878, which targeted newspapers published in native Indian languages.
Key Points:
The word 'vernacular' is derived from the Latin word 'vernaculus,' meaning native or domestic.
The Vernacular Press Act was enacted in 1878 by Lord Lytton to curb the freedom of the Indian-language press.
Unlike imperial languages used for administration by colonial powers, vernacular languages were spoken by the general populace at the local level.
Important Questions and Answers:
Question: Which Viceroy enacted the Vernacular Press Act in 1878?
Answer: Lord Lytton.
Question: In which year was the Vernacular Press Act repealed?
Answer: 1881 (by Lord Ripon).