Some took to settled cultivation

4.1.4 Some took to settled cultivation

Description

Quick Overview

The section discusses how some tribal groups transitioned from a nomadic lifestyle to settled agriculture, influenced by British colonial rule.

Standard

During the 19th century, several tribal groups began practicing settled agriculture rather than shifting cultivation. This transition involved the use of ploughs and resulted in the establishment of land rights. The British viewed these groups as more civilized, while changes in tribal governance and forest laws significantly impacted their traditional ways of life.

Detailed

In the late 19th century, many tribal groups, particularly the Mundas in Chottanagpur, transitioned from their traditional nomadic and shifting cultivation lifestyles to settled agriculture. This involved cultivating land in a fixed location year after year, utilizing tools like the plough, and gaining rights over the land they occupied. Such changes were often viewed positively by British officials, who considered settled farmers more civilized compared to hunter-gatherers. However, this transformation also altered traditional governance structures, diminishing the authority of tribal chiefs while increasing their dependence on colonial laws and land revenue systems. The introduction of forest laws by the British further complicated tribal life, as these laws restricted access to forests, which were crucial for their livelihoods. Many tribal communities resisted these impositions, ultimately leading to a blend of adaptation and rebellion against colonial control. Thus, this period marked a significant shift in tribal societies, from mobile lifestyles to more structured forms of agriculture and governance, heavily influenced by colonial policies.

Key Concepts

  • Settled Cultivation: Transition from moving to staying in one agricultural spot, introducing ploughing and land rights.

  • Dikus: Outsiders who exploited tribal populations, leading to resentment and resistance.

  • Forest Laws: Regulations restricting tribes from accessing the forests crucial for their sustenance.

  • Tribal Chiefs: Leaders whose powers were diminished under British governance, affecting traditional structures.

Memory Aids

🎵 Rhymes Time

  • In fields we sow, we stay, not roam; Settled farmers call this home!

📖 Fascinating Stories

  • Once tribes roamed and sowed seeds wide, but then they found a place to abide. They ploughed the earth and called it their own, leading to a life distinctly grown.

🧠 Other Memory Gems

  • FLR - Farming, Law, Rights. Remember these key concepts about settled cultivation.

🎯 Super Acronyms

DREAM - Dikus, Rights, Environment, Agriculture, Migrations.

Examples

  • The Mundas of Chottanagpur transitioned to settled agriculture, using ploughs and forming land rights.

  • Many tribal groups resisted British forest laws, leading to protests and revolts.

Glossary of Terms

  • Term: Settled Cultivation

    Definition:

    Farming practice where tribes cultivate the same land year after year.

  • Term: Dikus

    Definition:

    Outsiders, including traders and landlords, perceived as exploitative by tribal groups.

  • Term: Jhum Cultivation

    Definition:

    Shifting agriculture practiced by many tribal groups in forested areas.

  • Term: Forest Laws

    Definition:

    Regulations imposed by the British that restricted tribal access to forests and resources.

  • Term: Tribal Chiefs

    Definition:

    Leaders within tribal societies who historically held power and authority.

  • Term: Land Rights

    Definition:

    Legal rights to own or use land, which changed under British rule.