PARTITION OF BENGAL (1905)

Q1. Why was Bengal partitioned in 1905? (7 marks)

Ans. Firstly, the great size of Bengal made it difficult to govern as a single unit by
just one governor, so in order to administer it efficiently the British announced
POB in 1905.

Secondly, the British wanted to develop the western part of Bengal that was not as
developed as the east wing. So, Lord Carson wanted to give attention towards the
development of west wing thought it is suitable to partition Bengal.

Thirdly, as they were growing problems in the Muslim community regarding

British. The British wanted to please them to put a full stop to the rioting. Thus by
dividing Bengal a Muslim majority province was created which meant more
Muslim representation in politics of the subcontinent now.
However other reasons like some anti –British activities going on in the
subcontinent. For example, leaders like Tilak Poona were making impassioned
speeches and were also writing provocative articles. There were also some secret
societies as well which were working for Indian freedom. Such activities worried
the British about their rule in the Subcontinent and therefore they decided to clamp
them down. One way in which they did so was the partition of Bengal.
 Reversal Of The Partition Of Bengal(1911)

Q2: Why was partition of Bengal reversed in 1911? (7 marks)

Ans: When Hindus saw Muslims majority province being created they could not
bear this as it meant a politically bright future for the Muslims. Hindus thought
partition of Bengal as British “Divide the Rule” policy. Thus they opposed it very
strongly. They were united, organized whereas Muslims weren’t united so could
not protest for their right. When British saw such protest by Hindus against
Muslims they thought that both the communities were not satisfied. Thus to put an
end to this protest that was threatening their power, it was reversed.

Then Hindus started Swadeshi Movement in which they banned the use of all
British goods. This led to heavy losses in trade for the British as their sales
dropped dramatically. So in order to stop the economic loss and to satisfy Hindus it
was reversed.

There were numerous protests by Hindus, not only this but there was a failedq
assassination attempt on Lord Minto. This proved to be very pressure rising for
British so in order to protect their officials and to maintain law and order in the
area it was reversed.