4. Tribals, Dikus and the Vision of a Golden Age
The chapter delves into the lives and struggles of tribal groups in India during British rule, exploring their traditional practices and how these were disrupted by colonial policies. It highlights the significant role of figures like Birsa Munda in advocating for tribal rights and the quest for a return to their 'golden age'. The transformation in tribal livelihoods and the impact of external forces are also examined, emphasizing the resilience and resistance of tribal communities.
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Sections
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What we have learnt
- Birsa Munda emerged as a leader advocating for the rights of tribal people against the oppression of dikus.
- Tribal livelihoods were significantly altered under British rule, leading to widespread discontent and uprisings.
- The imposition of colonial policies and forest laws displaced tribal communities and threatened their traditional ways of life.
Key Concepts
- -- Jhum Cultivation
- A method of shifting cultivation practiced by tribal groups where land is cultivated temporarily and then left fallow to regain fertility.
- -- Dikus
- Outsiders perceived as exploiters of tribal resources, including landlords, traders, and government officials.
- -- Birsa Munda
- A prominent tribal leader who sought to reform tribal society and regain the ancestral rights of the Mundas, advocating for self-rule.
- -- Settled Cultivation
- The practice of growing crops in fixed locations, which contrasted with the traditional nomadic patterns of tribal groups.
Additional Learning Materials
Supplementary resources to enhance your learning experience.