Partition of Bengal & Swadeshi Movement
PYQs MCQs – Partition of Bengal and Swadeshi Movement
1. Who among the following edited a magazine Vande Mataram during the Swadeshi Movement in India? (HSLC 2025)
(a) Arabinda Ghose
(b) Krishna Kumar Mitra
(c) Surendranath Banerjee
(d) Kumudini Mishra
Answer: (a) Arabinda Ghose
2. Which of the following best explains why Gopal Krishna Gokhale returned his 'Knighthood' title to the British Government? (HSLC 2025)
(a) He felt the British Government was failing to provide adequate governance.
(b) He was dissatisfied with his position in the British administration.
(c) He disagreed with the British policy of partitioning Bengal.
(d) He sought to retire from public life and focus.
Answer: (c) He disagreed with the British policy of partitioning Bengal.
3. During which Viceroy's period did the Partition of Bengal take place? (HSLC 2023)
(a) Lord Curzon
(b) Lord William Bentinck
(c) Robert Clive
(d) Lord Warren Hastings
Answer: (a) Lord Curzon
4. Between whom was the Treaty of Allahabad signed? (HSLC 2023)
(a) Between Shah Alam and Lord Curzon
(b) Between Bahadur Shah and Lord Curzon
(c) Between Shah Alam and Robert Clive
(d) Between Bahadur Shah and Robert Clive
Answer: (c) Between Shah Alam and Robert Clive
5. During whose tenure was the 'Partition Plan of Bengal' executed? (HSLC 2017)
(a) Lord Mountbatten
(b) Lord William Bentinck
(c) Lord Dalhousie
(d) Lord Curzon
Answer: (d) Lord Curzon
6. The British Government annulled the Partition Plan of Bengal by holding a Darbar at Delhi. (HSLC 2016)
(a) 20 July, 1905
(b) 12 December, 1911
(c) 13 December, 1908
(d) 15 August, 1906
Answer: (b) 12 December, 1911
Introduction to partition of Bengal
Q1. Why did Lord Curzon partition Bengal in 1905?
(A) To improve education
(B) To weaken the Indian national movement
(C) To boost trade with Orissa
(D) To reduce administrative costs
Answer: (B)
Explanation: The partition aimed to suppress the growing national movement in Bengal, which was a challenge for British rule.
Q2. What was the new province formed by combining East Bengal and Assam?
(A) West Bengal
(B) Eastern Bengal and Assam
(C) Bihar and Orissa
(D) North-East Frontier
Answer: (B)
Explanation: East Bengal was joined with Assam to create the province of Eastern Bengal and Assam.
Q3. Which Viceroy was responsible for the partition of Bengal in 1905?
(A) Lord Dalhousie
(B) Lord Minto
(C) Lord Curzon
(D) Lord Hardinge
Answer: (C)
Explanation: Lord Curzon, Viceroy from 1899 to 1905, implemented the partition.
Q4. How did Indians react to the partition of Bengal?
(A) They supported it
(B) They launched a nationwide protest
(C) They remained neutral
(D) They migrated to Assam
Answer: (B)
Explanation: The partition united Indians in a nationwide protest against British rule.
Q5. Which event is compared to the partition of Bengal as a major political upheaval?
(A) Quit India Movement
(B) Sepoy Mutiny of 1857
(C) Non-Cooperation Movement
(D) Dandi Salt March
Answer: (B)
Explanation: The partition was the second major political upheaval after the Sepoy Mutiny.
Q6. What was the main goal of the movement against the partition of Bengal?
(A) To promote British goods
(B) To unite Indians against British policies
(C) To create a new province
(D) To reduce Bengal’s population
Answer: (B)
Explanation: The movement aimed to unite Indians to oppose the British partition policy.
Q7. In which period did Bengal’s national movement grow strong?
(A) Early 18th century
(B) Mid-19th century
(C) Late 19th to early 20th century
(D) Late 20th century
Answer: (C)
Explanation: The national movement in Bengal strengthened in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
Q8. What was combined with West Bengal after the 1905 partition?
(A) Assam and Cachar
(B) Bihar and Orissa
(C) Khasi Hills and Naga Hills
(D) Madhya Pradesh and Sambalpur
Answer: (B)
Explanation: West Bengal was continued with Bihar and Orissa after the partition.
Q9. Why was the partition of Bengal significant in India’s freedom struggle?
(A) It ended British rule
(B) It marked the first all-India national struggle
(C) It reduced Bengal’s size
(D) It improved British governance
Answer: (B)
Explanation: The partition sparked the first active national struggle across India.
Q10. What was the British justification for partitioning Bengal?
(A) To promote unity
(B) For administrative convenience
(C) To increase trade
(D) To support education
Answer: (B)
Explanation: The British claimed the partition was for easier administration of the large province.
Q11. Which province was described as vast before its division in 1905?
(A) Assam
(B) Bengal
(C) Orissa
(D) Bihar
Answer: (B)
Explanation: Bengal’s large size and population made it a target for partition.
Q12. What impact did the partition have on Indian unity?
(A) It divided Hindus and Muslims
(B) It strengthened national unity
(C) It weakened the freedom struggle
(D) It had no impact
Answer: (B)
Explanation: The partition united Indians in protest, boosting national unity.
The Background of Partition of Bengal
Q13. Which act created the position of Governor General for Bengal?
(A) Regulating Act 1773
(B) Pitts India Act 1784
(C) Charter Act of 1813
(D) Charter Act of 1833
Answer: (A)
Explanation: The Regulating Act of 1773 upgraded the Bengal Governor to Governor General.
Q14. What did the Regulating Act of 1773 do to Bombay and Madras?
(A) Made them independent
(B) Placed them under Fort William’s control
(C) Merged them with Bengal
(D) Reduced their size
Answer: (B)
Explanation: Bombay and Madras Governors were brought under the control of Fort William’s Governor.
Q15. Why was a Lieutenant Governor appointed for Bengal?
(A) To replace the Viceroy
(B) To manage Bengal’s vast area
(C) To control Assam’s tea trade
(D) To suppress the Sepoy Mutiny
Answer: (B)
Explanation: Bengal’s large size required a Lieutenant Governor for better governance.
Q16. Who signed the Allahabad Treaty of 1765 for the East India Company?
(A) Warren Hastings
(B) Robert Clive
(C) Lord Dalhousie
(D) Lord Curzon
Answer: (B)
Explanation: Robert Clive signed the treaty, gaining control over Bengal, Bihar, and Orissa.
Q17. Which regions were included in Bengal after the Allahabad Treaty?
(A) Bengal, Bihar, and Orissa
(B) Assam, Cachar, and Khasi Hills
(C) Bombay, Madras, and Calcutta
(D) Sambalpur and Chattagram
Answer: (A)
Explanation: The treaty gave the East India Company authority over Bengal, Bihar, and Orissa.
Q18. What event led to British administrative reforms in India?
(A) Orissa famine
(B) Sepoy Mutiny of 1857
(C) Treaty of Yandabu
(D) Regulating Act
Answer: (B)
Explanation: The Sepoy Mutiny prompted the British to reform Indian administration.
Q19. When was Assam created as a separate state?
(A) 1765
(B) 1826
(C) 1874
(D) 1905
Answer: (C)
Explanation: Assam was formed on 7th February 1874 from parts of Bengal.
Q20. Who was the first Chief Commissioner of Assam in 1874?
(A) Andrew Fraser
(B) J. Bamfylde Fuller
(C) R.H. Keatings
(D) Lord Northbrook
Answer: (C)
Explanation: R.H. Keatings was appointed as Assam’s first Chief Commissioner.
Q21. Which districts were part of the new Assam state in 1874?
(A) Bihar, Orissa, Sambalpur
(B) Goalpara, Kamrup, Nagaon, Darrang, Lakhimpur, Sivasagar
(C) Chattagram, Cachar, Srihatta
(D) Khasi Hills, Naga Hills, Garo Hills
Answer: (B)
Explanation: These six Brahmaputra valley districts were included in Assam.
Q22. What was the population of Assam when it was created in 1874?
(A) 7.8 crore
(B) 41,50,000
(C) 4 crore 60 lacs
(D) 2,53,000
Answer: (B)
Explanation: Assam’s population was 41,50,000 at its creation.
Q23. Which event is seen as the first step toward Bengal’s partition?
(A) Allahabad Treaty
(B) Creation of Assam in 1874
(C) Sepoy Mutiny
(D) Orissa famine
Answer: (B)
Explanation: Some historians consider Assam’s creation as the initial step in partitioning Bengal.
Q24. Who proposed boundary changes for Madhya Pradesh and Bengal in 1901?
(A) Lord Curzon
(B) Andrew Fraser
(C) R.H. Keatings
(D) J. Bamfylde Fuller
Answer: (B)
Explanation: Andrew Fraser suggested altering the boundaries of Madhya Pradesh and Bengal.
Q25. What was Bengal’s population when Andrew Fraser proposed its partition?
(A) 41,50,000
(B) 4 crore 60 lacs
(C) 7.8 crore
(D) 54,100
Answer: (C)
Explanation: Bengal’s population was 7.8 crore at the time of Fraser’s proposal.
Q26. Why did J. Bamfylde Fuller propose annexing Chattagram to Assam?
(A) To improve governance
(B) To expand the tea business
(C) To reduce population
(D) To promote education
Answer: (B)
Explanation: Fuller wanted to boost the tea industry by including Chattagram in Assam.
Q27. Which famine prompted discussions on Bengal’s partition?
(A) Assam famine
(B) Orissa famine
(C) Bihar famine
(D) Bengal famine
Answer: (B)
Explanation: The Orissa famine of 1866 led to talks about partitioning Bengal.
Q28. Who was the Viceroy during the Orissa famine of 1866?
(A) Lord Curzon
(B) Lord Northbrook
(C) Lord Dalhousie
(D) Lord Lytton
Answer: (B)
Explanation: Lord Northbrook proposed Bengal’s partition after the famine.
Q29. How many people died in the Orissa famine of 1866?
(A) 1,000
(B) 10,000
(C) 41,50,000
(D) 7.8 crore
Answer: (B)
Explanation: Around 10,000 people died in the Orissa famine.
Q30. Which treaty brought the Brahmaputra valley under British control?
(A) Treaty of Yandabu
(B) Allahabad Treaty
(C) Treaty of Sugauli
(D) Treaty of Amritsar
Answer: (A)
Explanation: The Treaty of Yandabu in 1826 gave the British control over the Brahmaputra valley.
Q31. When did the Khasi Hills come under British control?
(A) 1826
(B) 1833
(C) 1835
(D) 1854
Answer: (B)
Explanation: The Khasi Hills were brought under British control in 1833.
Q32. What was the area of Bengal before Assam’s creation?
(A) 54,100 sq. miles
(B) 2,53,000 sq. miles
(C) 41,50,000 sq. miles
(D) 7.8 crore sq. miles
Answer: (B)
Explanation: Bengal’s area was 2,53,000 square miles before 1874.
Q33. Which administrative centers were key under the East India Company?
(A) Delhi, Bombay, Madras
(B) Calcutta, Bombay, Madras
(C) Assam, Bihar, Orissa
(D) Shillong, Dhaka, Guwahati
Answer: (B)
Explanation: Calcutta, Bombay, and Madras were the main administrative centers.
Q34. Who was the highest administrator in a Presidency under the East India Company?
(A) Viceroy
(B) President
(C) Chief Commissioner
(D) Lieutenant Governor
Answer: (B)
Explanation: Each Presidency was led by a President.
Q35. When did the Jaintia Hills come under British control?
(A) 1826
(B) 1832
(C) 1835
(D) 1843
Answer: (C)
Explanation: The Jaintia Hills were acquired by the British in 1835.
Q36. What was the population of Bengal before 1874?
(A) 7.8 crore
(B) 4 crore 60 lacs
(C) 41,50,000
(D) 2,53,000
Answer: (B)
Explanation: Bengal’s population was 4 crore 60 lacs before Assam’s creation.
The Partition of Bengal
Q1. Who was appointed as Lieutenant Governor of Bengal in 1903?
(A) J. Bamfylde Fuller
(B) Andrew Fraser
(C) William E. Ward
(D) Herbert Risley
Answer: (B)
Explanation: Andrew Fraser became Lieutenant Governor of Bengal in 1903 and was tasked with planning the partition.
Q2. When did Andrew Fraser submit his plan for the partition of Bengal to Lord Curzon?
(A) 6th December 1903
(B) 28th March 1903
(C) 1st June 1903
(D) 19th July 1905
Answer: (B)
Explanation: Fraser submitted his partition plan on 28th March 1903.
Q3. Which regions were proposed to be annexed to Assam in Fraser’s plan?
(A) Bihar, Orissa, Chotanagpur
(B) Dhaka, Chattagram, Rajshahi
(C) Khasi Hills, Naga Hills
(D) West Bengal, Sambalpur
Answer: (B)
Explanation: Fraser suggested annexing Dhaka, Chattagram, and Rajshahi to Assam.
Q4. How many districts were included in Andrew Fraser’s plan to annex to Assam?
(A) 10
(B) 12
(C) 15
(D) 18
Answer: (C)
Explanation: The plan included 15 districts from Dhaka, Chattagram, and Rajshahi.
Q5. Who was the Viceroy who discussed the partition proposal with Herbert Risley in 1903?
(A) Lord Minto
(B) Lord Curzon
(C) Lord Hardinge
(D) Lord Dalhousie
Answer: (B)
Explanation: Lord Curzon prepared the partition proposal with Herbert Risley on 1st June 1903.
Q6. What was the official name of the British government’s partition proposal?
(A) Curzon Plan
(B) Risley Papers
(C) Minute on Territorial Re-distribution in India
(D) Bengal Division Act
Answer: (C)
Explanation: The proposal was called the Minute on Territorial Re-distribution in India.
Q7. Why was the partition proposal also known as ‘Risley Papers’?
(A) It was written by Andrew Fraser
(B) It was declared by Herbert Risley
(C) It was approved by Lord Curzon
(D) It was rejected by John Brodric
Answer: (B)
Explanation: Herbert Risley officially declared the proposal on 6th December 1903, so it was named after him.
Q8. What was the total area of Dhaka, Chattagram, and Rajshahi in the partition plan?
(A) 54,100 sq. miles
(B) 106,540 sq. miles
(C) 2,53,000 sq. miles
(D) 31,000 sq. miles
Answer: (B)
Explanation: These three territories covered 106,540 square miles.
Q9. What was the population of Dhaka, Chattagram, and Rajshahi during the partition?
(A) 18 million
(B) 31 million
(C) 5.4 crore
(D) 7.8 crore
Answer: (B)
Explanation: The total population of these regions was 31 million.
Q10. How many Muslims lived in Dhaka, Chattagram, and Rajshahi in 1905?
(A) 12 million
(B) 18 million
(C) 31 million
(D) 4.2 crore
Answer: (B)
Explanation: Out of the 31 million population, 18 million were Muslims.
Q11. What was the name of the new province formed by annexing parts of Bengal to Assam?
(A) West Bengal
(B) Eastern Bengal and Assam
(C) Bihar and Orissa
(D) North-East Frontier
Answer: (B)
Explanation: The new province was called Eastern Bengal and Assam.
Q12. What was the capital of the proposed Eastern Bengal and Assam province?
(A) Calcutta
(B) Shillong
(C) Dhaka
(D) Guwahati
Answer: (C)
Explanation: Dhaka was designated as the capital of Eastern Bengal and Assam.
Q13. What was the population of the Eastern Bengal and Assam province?
(A) 5.4 crore
(B) 3 crore 10 lacs
(C) 7.8 crore
(D) 4 crore 60 lacs
Answer: (B)
Explanation: The province had a population of around 3 crore 10 lacs.
Q14. How many Hindus lived in the Eastern Bengal and Assam province?
(A) 1.8 crore
(B) 1.2 crore
(C) 4.2 crore
(D) 90 thousand
Answer: (B)
Explanation: The Hindu population in Eastern Bengal and Assam was 1.2 crore.
Q15. What was the capital of the new Bengal province after the partition?
(A) Dhaka
(B) Calcutta
(C) Shillong
(D) Bihar
Answer: (B)
Explanation: Calcutta remained the capital of the new Bengal province.
Q16. What was the population of the new Bengal province after the partition?
(A) 3 crore 10 lacs
(B) 5.4 crore
(C) 31 million
(D) 7.8 crore
Answer: (B)
Explanation: The new Bengal province had a population of about 5.4 crore.
Q17. How many Muslims lived in the new Bengal province in 1905?
(A) 90 thousand
(B) 1.8 crore
(C) 4.2 crore
(D) 1.2 crore
Answer: (A)
Explanation: The Muslim population in the new Bengal province was 90 thousand.
Q18. Why did the British claim Bengal needed to be partitioned?
(A) To promote trade
(B) For smooth administration
(C) To unite Hindus and Muslims
(D) To reduce population
Answer: (B)
Explanation: The British said Bengal was too large to be governed by one Lieutenant Governor.
Q19. What was the hidden motive behind the partition of Bengal?
(A) To improve governance
(B) To break Hindu-Muslim unity
(C) To promote education
(D) To expand tea trade
Answer: (B)
Explanation: The partition aimed to divide Hindus and Muslims to weaken their unity against British rule.
Q20. Who mentioned that a united Bengal was a threat to British rule?
(A) Lord Curzon
(B) Andrew Fraser
(C) Herbert Risley
(D) William E. Ward
Answer: (C)
Explanation: Herbert Risley wrote to Lord Curzon that a united Bengal was a strong force.
Q21. What was Lord Curzon’s real goal in partitioning Bengal?
(A) To strengthen Indian nationalism
(B) To weaken Hindu-Bengali influence
(C) To promote Muslim unity
(D) To reduce administrative costs
Answer: (B)
Explanation: Curzon aimed to reduce the influence of politically active Hindu-Bengalis.
Q22. When did Lord Curzon send the partition proposal to London for approval?
(A) 28th March 1903
(B) 2nd February 1905
(C) 6th December 1903
(D) 19th July 1905
Answer: (B)
Explanation: The proposal was sent on 2nd February 1905.
Q23. Who approved the partition proposal on 9th June 1905?
(A) Herbert Risley
(B) Andrew Fraser
(C) John Brodric
(D) William E. Ward
Answer: (C)
Explanation: John Brodric, Secretary of State for India, approved the proposal.
Q24. When was the partition of Bengal officially announced?
(A) 28th March 1903
(B) 19th July 1905
(C) 1st September 1905
(D) 16th October 1905
Answer: (B)
Explanation: The British government published the proposal on 19th July 1905.
Q25. On which date was the partition of Bengal implemented?
(A) 6th December 1903
(B) 9th June 1905
(C) 1st September 1905
(D) 16th October 1905
Answer: (D)
Explanation: The partition took effect on 16th October 1905.
Q26. What was the capital of Assam before it was changed to Dhaka?
(A) Guwahati
(B) Shillong
(C) Calcutta
(D) Dispur
Answer: (B)
Explanation: Shillong was Assam’s capital before it was shifted to Dhaka.
Q27. Which court had jurisdiction over Eastern Bengal and Assam until a new high court was established?
(A) Dhaka High Court
(B) Calcutta High Court
(C) Bombay High Court
(D) Madras High Court
Answer: (B)
Explanation: The Calcutta High Court governed the new province temporarily.
Q28. Why did European tea planters support the partition of Bengal?
(A) To reduce taxes
(B) To expand tea trade via sea routes
(C) To improve governance
(D) To promote Hindu-Muslim unity
Answer: (B)
Explanation: Tea planters wanted to extend Assam’s boundary to Chattagram for better sea trade.
Q29. Which group was made a minority in both new provinces after the partition?
(A) Muslims
(B) Hindu-Bengalis
(C) British officials
(D) Farmers
Answer: (B)
Explanation: The partition aimed to reduce the influence of Hindu-Bengalis in both provinces.
Q30. What did Lord Curzon’s partition plan aim to increase among Muslims?
(A) Political awareness
(B) Loyalty to the British
(C) Economic growth
(D) Educational opportunities
Answer: (B)
Explanation: Curzon sought to gain the loyalty of politically less active Muslims.
Swadeshi Movement (1905–1911 A.D.)
Q1. Why did Indian leaders oppose the partition of Bengal?
(A) It promoted British trade
(B) It threatened Bengali heritage and Hindu-Muslim unity
(C) It reduced Bengal’s population
(D) It improved governance
Answer: (B)
Explanation: Leaders saw the partition as a British conspiracy to harm Bengali culture and divide Hindus and Muslims.
Q2. Who was NOT a key leader in the Swadeshi Movement?
(A) Surendra Nath Banerjee
(B) Rabindranath Tagore
(C) Lord Curzon
(D) Bipin Chandra Pal
Answer: (C)
Explanation: Lord Curzon was the Viceroy who partitioned Bengal, not a leader of the movement.
Q3. What was the first action taken to create public opinion against the partition?
(A) Boycotting British goods
(B) Signature collection campaign
(C) Organizing a strike
(D) Burning foreign goods
Answer: (B)
Explanation: Leaders started a signature campaign, collecting 70,000 signatures to protest the partition.
Q4. How many signatures were collected in the anti-partition campaign?
(A) 50,000
(B) 70,000
(C) 90,000
(D) 1,00,000
Answer: (B)
Explanation: A protest paper with 70,000 signatures was sent to the Secretary of State for India.
Q5. What was the name of the article published in Sanjibani that created a sensation?
(A) Vande Mataram
(B) Bangar Sarbanash
(C) Swadeshi Call
(D) Unity of Bengal
Answer: (B)
Explanation: The article Bangar Sarbanash in Sanjibani sparked widespread public reaction.
Q6. When was the article Bangar Sarbanash published?
(A) 6th July 1904
(B) 14th July 1905
(C) 19th July 1905
(D) 16th October 1905
Answer: (A)
Explanation: The article was published on 6th July 1904, raising awareness against the partition.
Q7. Where was the first protest meeting against the partition held?
(A) Calcutta
(B) Khulna
(C) Dinajpur
(D) Pabna
Answer: (B)
Explanation: The first protest meeting was held at Khulna (Bagerbari) on 14th July 1905.
Q8. Who presided over the protest meeting in Dinajpur on 20th July 1905?
(A) Surendra Nath Banerjee
(B) Rabindranath Tagore
(C) Maharaja of Dinajpur
(D) Krishna Kumar Mitra
Answer: (C)
Explanation: The Maharaja of Dinajpur chaired the meeting, which passed a resolution to boycott British goods.
Q9. When did students of Ripon College first join the Swadeshi Movement?
(A) 14th July 1905
(B) 18th July 1905
(C) 31st July 1905
(D) 16th October 1905
Answer: (B)
Explanation: Ripon College students walked out of classes on 18th July 1905 to join the movement.
Q10. What was the name of the college where students staged a walkout in 1905?
(A) Presidency College
(B) Ripon College
(C) Calcutta University
(D) Dhaka College
Answer: (B)
Explanation: Ripon College, now Surendra Nath College, saw the first student walkout.
Q11. When was a major student rally organized by Ripon College students?
(A) 18th July 1905
(B) 31st July 1905
(C) 7th August 1905
(D) 23rd September 1905
Answer: (B)
Explanation: A large student rally was held on 31st July 1905 under Ripon College leadership.
Q12. Where was a major public meeting held on 7th August 1905?
(A) Rajabazar
(B) Khulna
(C) Town Hall, Kasimbazar
(D) Dinajpur
Answer: (C)
Explanation: The meeting at Kasimbazar’s Town Hall decided to boycott British goods.
Q13. Who presided over the Kasimbazar meeting on 7th August 1905?
(A) Surendra Nath Banerjee
(B) Maharaja Manindra Chandra Nandi
(C) Rabindranath Tagore
(D) Abdul Rassul
Answer: (B)
Explanation: Maharaja Manindra Chandra Nandi led the meeting, promoting the boycott.
Q14. Which song was recited by students during the Kasimbazar meeting?
(A) Vande Mataram
(B) Hey Banga Janani
(C) Amar Sonar Bangla
(D) Bangalir Pran
Answer: (B)
Explanation: Students sang Mukunda Das’s patriotic song Hey Banga Janani.
Q15. What was the name of the organization formed by students under Surendra Nath Banerjee?
(A) Bengal Unity League
(B) Student Union
(C) Swadeshi Committee
(D) Anti-Partition Group
Answer: (B)
Explanation: The Student Union was formed to lead anti-partition movements.
Q16. What action did students take to protest British goods?
(A) Organized strikes
(B) Started picketing businesses
(C) Wrote articles
(D) Held signature campaigns
Answer: (B)
Explanation: Students picketed business institutions to stop the sale of British goods.
Q17. Where was a major protest rally held on 23rd September 1905?
(A) Kasimbazar
(B) Rajabazar
(C) Khulna
(D) Calcutta Town Hall
Answer: (B)
Explanation: A big rally at Rajabazar, North Calcutta, strengthened the movement.
Q18. Who presided over the Rajabazar rally on 23rd September 1905?
(A) Rabindranath Tagore
(B) Abdul Rassul
(C) Surendra Nath Banerjee
(D) Ananda Mohan Bose
Answer: (B)
Explanation: Abdul Rassul led the rally, showing Muslim participation in the movement.
Q19. What was observed on 16th October 1905 in Bengal?
(A) Swadeshi Day
(B) National Mourning Day
(C) Rakhi Day
(D) Boycott Day
Answer: (B)
Explanation: Bengalis observed National Mourning Day to protest the partition’s implementation.
Q20. What did Ramendra Sundar Trivedi propose on 16th October 1905?
(A) Boycotting British goods
(B) Avoiding cooking in households
(C) Organizing a strike
(D) Signing a protest paper
Answer: (B)
Explanation: Trivedi suggested households avoid cooking to mark the mourning day.
Q21. What did Rabindranath Tagore promote on 16th October 1905?
(A) Picketing shops
(B) Rakhibandhan ceremony
(C) Burning British goods
(D) Writing protest articles
Answer: (B)
Explanation: Tagore called for Rakhibandhan to promote Hindu-Muslim unity.
Q22. Which song did Tagore compose for the Rakhibandhan ceremony?
(A) Vande Mataram
(B) Bangalir Pran
(C) Amar Sonar Bangla
(D) Hey Banga Janani
Answer: (B)
Explanation: Tagore’s Rakhi song Bangalir Pran was sung to promote unity.
Q23. Where did people gather to tie Rakhis on 16th October 1905?
(A) Ripon College
(B) Masjids at Kalutola and Chitpur
(C) Town Hall, Kasimbazar
(D) Rajabazar
Answer: (B)
Explanation: Rakhis were tied at Kalutola and Chitpur Masjids to strengthen unity.
Q24. What did students decide to do until the partition was cancelled?
(A) Boycott classes
(B) Go to school barefoot
(C) Stop buying Indian goods
(D) Organize daily rallies
Answer: (B)
Explanation: Students went to school barefoot as a form of protest.
Q25. What happened in Calcutta on the afternoon of 16th October 1905?
(A) A public meeting
(B) A strike (Hartal)
(C) A signature campaign
(D) A Rakhibandhan ceremony
Answer: (B)
Explanation: A hartal closed shops, schools, and businesses in Calcutta.
Q26. Who laid the foundation stone of Federal Hall on 16th October 1905?
(A) Rabindranath Tagore
(B) Ananda Mohan Bose
(C) Surendra Nath Banerjee
(D) Bipin Chandra Pal
Answer: (B)
Explanation: Ananda Mohan Bose laid the stone as a symbol of Bengal’s unity.
Q27. What became the theme song of the Swadeshi Movement?
(A) Amar Sonar Bangla
(B) Vande Mataram
(C) Hey Banga Janani
(D) Bangalir Pran
Answer: (B)
Explanation: Vande Mataram was widely sung, inspiring the movement.
####28. What did Aurobindo Ghose say about boycotting British goods?
(A) It was an economic strategy
(B) It was an act of patriotism
(C) It was a religious duty
(D) It was a temporary measure
Answer: (B)
Explanation: Ghose called boycotting an act of patriotism and non-cooperation with the British.
Q29. Which regions supported the Swadeshi Movement beyond Bengal?
(A) Maharashtra, South India, North-East India
(B) Assam, Bihar, Orissa
(C) Bombay, Madras, Delhi
(D) Gujarat, Punjab, Kerala
Answer: (A)
Explanation: The movement spread to Maharashtra, South India, and North-East India.
Q30. What was a major economic impact of the Swadeshi Movement?
(A) Increased British exports
(B) Growth of Indian-made goods
(C) Reduced taxes
(D) Decline in local trade
Answer: (B)
Explanation: The movement promoted Indian goods, strengthening the local economy.
Consequences of the Swadeshi Movement
National Literature
Q1. Which magazine was edited by Surendranath Banerjee during the Swadeshi Movement?
(A) Sanjibani
(B) Bengali
(C) Yugantar
(D) Su-Prabhat
Answer: (B)
Explanation: Surendranath Banerjee edited Bengali in 1904, inspiring national sentiment.
Q2. Who edited the magazine Sanjibani in 1904?
(A) Rabindranath Tagore
(B) Krishna Kumar Mitra
(C) Bhupendra Dutta
(D) Satish Chandra Mukherjee
Answer: (B)
Explanation: Krishna Kumar Mitra’s Sanjibani played a key role in the movement.
Q3. Which play was written by Girish Ghose during the Swadeshi Movement?
(A) Palashir Prayachitta
(B) Sirajuddoula
(C) Bangar Angashed
(D) Joy Sangeet
Answer: (B)
Explanation: Girish Ghose wrote Sirajuddoula and Mir Kasim to promote patriotism.
Q4. Which song by Rabindranath Tagore became the national anthem of Bangladesh?
(A) Vande Mataram
(B) Amar Sonar Bangla
(C) Jadi Tor Daak Sune
(D) Bhai Bhai Ek Thai
Answer: (B)
Explanation: Amar Sonar Bangla was composed during the movement and later became Bangladesh’s anthem.
Q5. Who established the Bangia Kala Sangsad during the Swadeshi Movement?
(A) Abanindranath Thakur
(B) Sister Nivedita
(C) Rabindranath Tagore
(D) Sarala Devi Choudhurini
Answer: (A)
Explanation: Abanindranath Thakur founded Bangia Kala Sangsad to promote Indian fine arts.
Q6. What was the purpose of Bangia Kala Sangsad?
(A) To promote British art
(B) To establish Indian fine arts
(C) To publish patriotic songs
(D) To boycott foreign literature
Answer: (B)
Explanation: The institution aimed to develop Indian fine arts free from Western influence.
Q7. Who transformed Banga Mata into Bharat Mata?
(A) Rabindranath Tagore
(B) Abanindranath Thakur
(C) Sister Nivedita
(D) Krishna Kumar Mitra
Answer: (C)
Explanation: Sister Nivedita renamed Abanindranath’s painting Banga Mata as Bharat Mata.
Q8. Which book was written by Swarna Kumari Devi during the Swadeshi Movement?
(A) Nabya Bharat
(B) Japani Bir
(C) Bangalakhmir Bratakatha
(D) Joy Sangeet
Answer: (B)
Explanation: Japani Bir was a patriotic book by Swarna Kumari Devi.
National Education
Q9. What action did students take against R.W. Carlyle’s circular on 10th October 1905?
(A) Boycotted British goods
(B) Walked out of classrooms
(C) Organized a signature campaign
(D) Burned foreign books
Answer: (B)
Explanation: Students protested the circular by walking out of classrooms.
Q10. What was the name of the society formed to oppose Carlyle’s circular?
(A) Dawn Society
(B) Anti Circular Society
(C) National Education Council
(D) Student Union
Answer: (B)
Explanation: The Anti Circular Society was formed to defy the government’s order.
Q11. When was the Anti Circular Society formed?
(A) 4th November 1905
(B) 10th October 1905
(C) 5th August 1905
(D) 11th March 1906
Answer: (A)
Explanation: The society was established during a rally on 4th November 1905.
Q12. Who called the University of Calcutta a “house of slaves”?
(A) Rabindranath Tagore
(B) Satish Chandra Mukherjee
(C) Bipin Chandra Pal
(D) Abdul Rasul
Answer: (B)
Explanation: Satish Chandra Mukherjee criticized the university and urged students to leave it.
Q13. What was the name of the institution founded by Satish Chandra Mukherjee?
(A) Banga Jatiya Vidyalay
(B) Dawn Society
(C) Bengal National College
(D) National University
Answer: (B)
Explanation: The Dawn Society spread patriotic feelings among students.
Q14. When was the Banga Jatiya Vidyalay established by Rabindranath Tagore?
(A) 5th August 1905
(B) 6th August 1905
(C) 4th November 1905
(D) 15th August 1906
Answer: (B)
Explanation: Tagore founded the Banga Jatiya Vidyalay on 6th August 1905.
Q15. How many secondary schools were established during the Swadeshi Movement?
(A) 23
(B) 62
(C) 3000
(D) 1906
Answer: (B)
Explanation: A total of 62 secondary schools were set up to promote national education.
Q16. Who was the first principal of Bengal National College?
(A) Rabindranath Tagore
(B) Satish Chandra Mukherjee
(C) Aurobindo Ghose
(D) Rasbihari Bose
Answer: (C)
Explanation: Aurobindo Ghose served as the first principal of the college.
Q17. When was the Bengal National College promoted to National University?
(A) 15th August 1906
(B) 12th December 1906
(C) 11th March 1906
(D) 4th November 1905
Answer: (B)
Explanation: The college became a National University on 12th December 1906.
Contribution of Women
Q18. Who was a prominent female leader in the Swadeshi Movement?
(A) Kumudini Mishra
(B) Sarala Devi Choudhurini
(C) Swarna Kumari Devi
(D) Krishna Kumar Mitra
Answer: (B)
Explanation: Sarala Devi Choudhurini led the movement in a revolutionary way.
Q19. Which magazine was edited by Sarala Devi Choudhurini?
(A) Su-Prabhat
(B) Bharati
(C) Yugantar
(D) Sandhya
Answer: (B)
Explanation: Sarala Devi edited Bharati to inspire youth in the movement.
Q20. What festival did Sarala Devi organize to promote patriotism?
(A) Birastami Brat
(B) Rakhibandhan
(C) Swadeshi Utsav
(D) National Education Day
Answer: (A)
Explanation: Sarala Devi organized festivals like Birastami Brat to train youth.
Q21. What was Sister Nivedita’s real name?
(A) Kumudini Mishra
(B) Margaret Elizabeth Noble
(C) Sarala Devi Choudhurini
(D) Swarna Kumari Devi
Answer: (B)
Explanation: Sister Nivedita, born Margaret Elizabeth Noble, was an active supporter of the movement.
Q22. Which organization was Sister Nivedita associated with?
(A) Anti Circular Society
(B) Dawn Society
(C) Bangia Kala Sangsad
(D) National Education Council
Answer: (B)
Explanation: Sister Nivedita worked with the Dawn Society to promote independence.
Q23. What did the Daily Telegraph say about Bengal women in 1907?
(A) They were uninterested in the movement
(B) They were the most dangerous opponents of the British
(C) They supported British rule
(D) They avoided protests
Answer: (B)
Explanation: The newspaper called Bengal women obstinate and dangerous to British rule.
Rise of National Industry
Q24. What was the name of the textile firm established by Rabindranath Tagore?
(A) Banga Lakshi Cotton Mill
(B) Swadeshi Bhandar
(C) Indian Stores
(D) United Bengal Stores
Answer: (B)
Explanation: Tagore’s Swadeshi Bhandar became a reputed textile firm.
Q25. Who established the Banga Lakshi Cotton Mill?
(A) Prafulla Chandra Roy
(B) Nilratan Sarkar
(C) Jamshedji Tata
(D) Yogesh Chandra Choudhury
Answer: (B)
Explanation: Nilratan Sarkar founded the mill on 1st August 1906.
Q26. When was Bengal Chemicals established?
(A) 25th July 1906
(B) 1st August 1906
(C) 17th December 1905
(D) 1907
Answer: (A)
Explanation: Acharya Prafulla Chandra Roy started Bengal Chemicals on 25th July 1906.
Q27. Where was the first Indian industrial summit held?
(A) Calcutta
(B) Varanasi
(C) Dhaka
(D) Bombay
Answer: (B)
Explanation: The summit, chaired by R.C. Dutta, was held in Varanasi on 17th December 1905.
Establishment of Muslim League
Q28. When was the All India Muslim League established?
(A) 18th February 1904
(B) 30th December 1906
(C) 13th April 1906
(D) 1st October 1906
Answer: (B)
Explanation: The Muslim League was formed on 30th December 1906 in Dhaka.
Q29. Who led the establishment of the All India Muslim League?
(A) Lord Minto
(B) Nawab Salimullah
(C) Aga Khan
(D) William Archbold
Answer: (B)
Explanation: Nawab Khwaja Salimullah organized the meeting to create the Muslim League.
Q30. What was one aim of the All India Muslim League?
(A) To oppose British rule
(B) To increase Muslim loyalty to the British
(C) To unite Hindus and Muslims
(D) To promote national education
Answer: (B)
Explanation: The League aimed to foster Muslim loyalty to the British government.
Swadeshi Movement and National Congress
Q1. Who was a key leader in uniting people against the partition of Bengal through the National Congress?
(A) Lord Curzon
(B) Surendranath Banerjee
(C) Nawab Salimullah
(D) John Brodric
Answer: (B)
Explanation: Surendranath Banerjee rallied people against the partition via the National Congress.
Q2. During which years did the National Congress focus mainly on social and economic development?
(A) 1857–1885
(B) 1885–1905
(C) 1905–1911
(D) 1911–1920
Answer: (B)
Explanation: The Congress concentrated on social and economic issues from 1885 to 1905.
Q3. What did the National Congress become after the partition of Bengal?
(A) A regional organization
(B) A major force for Indian nationalism
(C) A British-supported group
(D) A religious movement
Answer: (B)
Explanation: The partition helped the Congress emerge as a key platform for Indian nationalism.
Q4. Where was the 19th annual session of the Indian National Congress held in 1903?
(A) Calcutta
(B) Bombay
(C) Madras
(D) Dhaka
Answer: (C)
Explanation: The session took place in Madras under Lalmohan Ghosh’s leadership.
Q5. Who presided over the 1903 Congress session in Madras?
(A) Gopal Krishna Gokhale
(B) Lalmohan Ghosh
(C) Surendranath Banerjee
(D) Bipin Chandra Pal
Answer: (B)
Explanation: Lalmohan Ghosh led the session that warned against the partition.
Q6. What did the National Congress warn the British government about in 1903?
(A) To improve education
(B) To abandon the partition plan
(C) To promote trade
(D) To reduce taxes
Answer: (B)
Explanation: The Congress urged the British to cancel the partition of Bengal.
Q7. Who traveled to London to protest the partition on behalf of the National Congress?
(A) Surendranath Banerjee and Bipin Chandra Pal
(B) Lala Lajpat Rai and Gopal Krishna Gokhale
(C) Aurobindo Ghose and Aswini Kumar Dutta
(D) Rabindranath Tagore and Ananda Mohan Bose
Answer: (B)
Explanation: Lala Lajpat Rai and Gopal Krishna Gokhale went to London to oppose the partition.
Q8. When did Lala Lajpat Rai and Gopal Krishna Gokhale reach London to submit a protest petition?
(A) 6th July 1905
(B) 19th July 1905
(C) 16th October 1905
(D) 30th December 1906
Answer: (A)
Explanation: They arrived in London on 6th July 1905 to present the petition.
Q9. What was submitted to the Secretary of State for India in 1905?
(A) A demand for independence
(B) A protest petition against the partition
(C) A plan for economic reform
(D) A request for more British titles
Answer: (B)
Explanation: The Congress submitted a petition signed by Bengalis to stop the partition.
Q10. What was the outcome of the Swadeshi Movement after six years?
(A) British rule ended
(B) Bengal was reunited in 1911
(C) The Muslim League was formed
(D) National schools were closed
Answer: (B)
Explanation: The movement forced the British to reunite Bengal in 1911.
Q11. What opportunity did the reunification of Bengal provide to Indians?
(A) Economic growth
(B) Unity for freedom and Swaraj
(C) British titles and honors
(D) Increased trade with Assam
Answer: (B)
Explanation: The reunification inspired Indians to unite for freedom and self-government.
Q12. What role did the Indian National Congress play after the partition?
(A) It supported British policies
(B) It became the central force for Swaraj
(C) It focused only on Bengal
(D) It dissolved after 1911
Answer: (B)
Explanation: The Congress became a key force in the fight for self-government.
Q13. What was the main focus of the National Congress after 1905?
(A) Social reforms only
(B) Greater Indian nationalism
(C) Supporting the partition
(D) Promoting British goods
Answer: (B)
Explanation: The partition shifted the Congress’s focus to broader Indian nationalism.
Q14. Who was an intellectual leader associated with the National Congress during the Swadeshi Movement?
(A) Nawab Salimullah
(B) Aswini Kumar Dutta
(C) Lord Minto
(D) Herbert Risley
Answer: (B)
Explanation: Aswini Kumar Dutta was among the leaders uniting people through the Congress.
Q15. What did the National Congress do after the partition was implemented despite opposition?
(A) Accepted British rule
(B) Took a strong stand against the partition
(C) Dissolved its committees
(D) Supported the Muslim League
Answer: (B)
Explanation: The Congress adopted a firm stance against the partition.
Anti-Movement Actions of the Government
Q16. What did the British government expect from moderate Congress leaders?
(A) Opposition to the partition
(B) Support for the partition
(C) Formation of the Muslim League
(D) Boycott of British goods
Answer: (B)
Explanation: The British hoped moderate leaders would support the partition.
Q17. What did Lord Curzon offer moderate Congress leaders to gain their loyalty?
(A) Land reforms
(B) Titles, posts, and medals
(C) Educational grants
(D) Trade benefits
Answer: (B)
Explanation: Curzon offered titles and posts to win over moderate leaders.
Q18. Which position was NOT offered to moderate Congress members by the British?
(A) Judge in the High Court
(B) Member of British Parliament
(C) Viceroy of India
(D) Member of Viceroy’s Council
Answer: (C)
Explanation: The British offered judicial and parliamentary roles, not the Viceroy position.
Q19. Why did Lord Curzon’s efforts to control the anti-partition movement fail?
(A) Lack of British resources
(B) Strong opposition from Congress leaders
(C) Support from the Muslim League
(D) Economic decline in Bengal
Answer: (B)
Explanation: Firm resistance from leaders like Banerjee and Gokhale thwarted Curzon’s plans.
Q20. Who urged Congress leaders to return British titles and honors?
(A) Surendranath Banerjee
(B) Bipin Chandra Pal
(C) Gopal Krishna Gokhale
(D) Lala Lajpat Rai
Answer: (B)
Explanation: Bipin Chandra Pal called for rejecting British titles and honors.
Q21. Who was the first to return the ‘Knighthood’ title to the British?
(A) Surendranath Banerjee
(B) Bipin Chandra Pal
(C) Gopal Krishna Gokhale
(D) Aurobindo Ghose
Answer: (C)
Explanation: Gopal Krishna Gokhale immediately returned his Knighthood title.
Q22. What was the British government’s strategy to weaken the anti-partition movement?
(A) Offering rewards to Congress leaders
(B) Promoting national education
(C) Uniting Hindus and Muslims
(D) Canceling the partition
Answer: (A)
Explanation: The British offered titles and posts to gain moderate leaders’ support.
Q23. Which Congress leader remained firm against the partition despite British offers?
(A) Nawab Salimullah
(B) Surendranath Banerjee
(C) Lord Minto
(D) John Brodric
Answer: (B)
Explanation: Surendranath Banerjee strongly opposed the partition.
Q24. What was the impact of Bipin Chandra Pal’s call to return British honors?
(A) It weakened the Congress
(B) It strengthened the anti-partition movement
(C) It supported British policies
(D) It led to the Muslim League’s formation
Answer: (B)
Explanation: The call to reject honors boosted the anti-partition movement’s resolve.
Q25. Why did the British target moderate Congress leaders?
(A) To suppress the Swadeshi Movement
(B) To promote national industries
(C) To encourage Hindu-Muslim unity
(D) To expand educational reforms
Answer: (A)
Explanation: The British aimed to weaken the Swadeshi Movement by winning over moderates.
Q26. What did Gopal Krishna Gokhale’s action of returning his title signify?
(A) Support for British rule
(B) Defiance against British policies
(C) Economic boycott
(D) Religious unity
Answer: (B)
Explanation: Returning the Knighthood was a bold act of resistance against the British.
Q27. How did the British attempt to control the anti-partition movement?
(A) By canceling the partition
(B) By offering incentives to Congress leaders
(C) By promoting national schools
(D) By uniting Indian communities
Answer: (B)
Explanation: The British offered titles and positions to gain loyalty.
Q28. Which group did the British expect to support the partition?
(A) Radical Congress leaders
(B) Moderate Congress leaders
(C) Student unions
(D) Muslim League members
Answer: (B)
Explanation: The British targeted moderate Congress leaders for support.
Q29. What was the outcome of the British government’s offers to Congress leaders?
(A) Most leaders accepted the offers
(B) The anti-partition movement weakened
(C) Congress leaders rejected the offers
(D) The partition was canceled immediately
Answer: (C)
Explanation: Leaders like Gokhale and Banerjee rejected British offers, strengthening the movement.
Q30. Who set the British government in a trap due to their firm stand against the partition?
(A) Lord Curzon and Lord Minto
(B) Surendranath Banerjee and Gopal Krishna Gokhale
(C) Nawab Salimullah and Aga Khan
(D) Lala Lajpat Rai and Aswini Kumar Dutta
Answer: (B)
Explanation: Banerjee and Gokhale’s strong opposition challenged British plans.
The Contribution of Swadeshi Movement
Q1. What political knowledge did the Swadeshi Movement impart to Indians?
(A) Importance of British rule
(B) Power of mass movements
(C) Need for economic reforms
(D) Value of foreign goods
Answer: (B)
Explanation: The movement taught Indians that mass movements could succeed if people united for a common cause.
Q2. What lesson did Indians learn from the Swadeshi Movement about mass movements?
(A) They were ineffective
(B) They required British support
(C) They succeeded with majority participation
(D) They focused only on economic issues
Answer: (C)
Explanation: The movement showed that united public participation could make a mass movement successful.
Q3. How did the Swadeshi Movement change the Indian National Congress’s outlook?
(A) It focused on peaceful demands
(B) It emphasized mass struggle for progress
(C) It supported British policies
(D) It avoided political issues
Answer: (B)
Explanation: The movement made Congress realize India’s progress required mass struggle, not just peaceful demands.
Q4. What was the Indian National Congress’s initial approach before the Swadeshi Movement?
(A) Violent protests
(B) Peaceful demands to the British
(C) Boycotting local goods
(D) Demanding Swaraj
Answer: (B)
Explanation: Congress initially focused on peaceful requests for India’s development.
Q5. Who was the Viceroy whose arrogance was challenged by the Swadeshi Movement?
(A) Lord Minto
(B) Lord Curzon
(C) Lord Hardinge
(D) Lord Dalhousie
Answer: (B)
Explanation: Lord Curzon’s claim that administration and exploitation went together was opposed by the movement.
Q6. What did Lord Curzon say about British rule during his tenure?
(A) It promoted Indian unity
(B) Administration and exploitation go hand in hand
(C) It supported local industries
(D) It encouraged Swaraj
Answer: (B)
Explanation: Curzon’s statement reflected British exploitation, which the movement resisted.
Q7. How did Indians retaliate against Lord Curzon’s policies in the Swadeshi Movement?
(A) By accepting British titles
(B) By boycotting foreign goods
(C) By supporting the partition
(D) By closing national schools
Answer: (B)
Explanation: Indians boycotted foreign goods and promoted local industries to counter Curzon’s policies.
Q8. Why is the Swadeshi Movement significant in India’s economic history?
(A) It increased British imports
(B) It promoted local goods and industries
(C) It reduced Indian unity
(D) It focused on foreign trade
Answer: (B)
Explanation: The movement boosted local goods and industries, aiding economic development.
Q9. What privilege did Indians demand through the Swadeshi Movement?
(A) British citizenship
(B) Swaraj
(C) More foreign goods
(D) Economic subsidies
Answer: (B)
Explanation: The movement inspired Indians to demand self-government or Swaraj.
Q10. When did the Indian National Congress first demand Swaraj?
(A) 1903 Madras session
(B) 1905 Banaras session
(C) 1906 Calcutta session
(D) 1911 Delhi session
Answer: (C)
Explanation: The demand for Swaraj was raised in the 1906 Calcutta session.
Q11. Who presided over the 1906 Calcutta session of the Indian National Congress?
(A) Surendranath Banerjee
(B) Dadabhai Naoroji
(C) Gopal Krishna Gokhale
(D) Lala Lajpat Rai
Answer: (B)
Explanation: Dadabhai Naoroji led the session where Swaraj was demanded.
Q12. What stirred the Indian National Congress to demand Swaraj in 1906?
(A) British support
(B) Sense of nationalism from the Swadeshi Movement
(C) Economic decline
(D) Partition’s cancellation
Answer: (B)
Explanation: The movement’s nationalist spirit prompted the Swaraj demand.
Q13. How did the Swadeshi Movement influence women’s participation?
(A) It discouraged women from joining
(B) It attracted women to mass movements
(C) It limited women to economic roles
(D) It focused on women’s education only
Answer: (B)
Explanation: The movement brought women into the mass struggle for freedom.
Q14. What event led to women fasting across Bengal?
(A) Partition’s implementation
(B) Execution of Prafulla Chaki
(C) Formation of the Muslim League
(D) Calcutta session of 1906
Answer: (B)
Explanation: Families fasted and mourned when Prafulla Chaki was executed.
Q15. What did Bengal households do on the day Prafulla Chaki was executed?
(A) Organized rallies
(B) Closed kitchens and fasted
(C) Boycotted local goods
(D) Celebrated British rule
Answer: (B)
Explanation: Kitchens were closed, and mothers mourned by fasting.
Q16. Who was tortured by police for criticizing the partition in Yugantar?
(A) Surendranath Banerjee
(B) Bhupendra Nath Dutta
(C) Prafulla Chaki
(D) Rabindranath Tagore
Answer: (B)
Explanation: Bhupendra Nath Dutta faced police torture for his writings.
Q17. Who called women to join the mass movement after Bhupendra Nath Dutta’s torture?
(A) Sarala Devi Choudhurini
(B) Sister Nivedita
(C) Bhabaneswari Devi
(D) Swarna Kumari Devi
Answer: (C)
Explanation: Bhabaneswari Devi, Dutta’s mother, urged women to protest.
Q18. What was the response of women to Bhabaneswari Devi’s call?
(A) They stayed home
(B) Thousands joined the movement
(C) They supported British rule
(D) They focused on education
Answer: (B)
Explanation: Thousands of women participated in the mass movement.
Q19. What new tendency emerged among some activists during the Swadeshi Movement?
(A) Support for British rule
(B) Armed movement
(C) Religious reforms
(D) Economic boycott only
Answer: (B)
Explanation: Some activists turned to violent methods, giving rise to armed movements.
Q20. What did the armed movement during the Swadeshi Movement indicate?
(A) Peaceful protests
(B) Violent methods by some activists
(C) British support
(D) Economic reforms
Answer: (B)
Explanation: A section of activists adopted violent approaches against British rule.
Q21. What showed the British government’s defeat due to the Swadeshi Movement?
(A) Formation of the Muslim League
(B) Repeal of Bengal’s partition
(C) Increased British imports
(D) Congress’s dissolution
Answer: (B)
Explanation: The partition’s repeal in 1911 marked a British setback.
Q22. When was the partition of Bengal repealed?
(A) 1905
(B) 1906
(C) 1911
(D) 1915
Answer: (C)
Explanation: The British reunited Bengal in 1911 due to the movement’s pressure.
Q23. What inspired Indians to join the national freedom struggle after the Swadeshi Movement?
(A) British policies
(B) Success of the anti-partition movement
(C) Economic decline
(D) Muslim League’s formation
Answer: (B)
Explanation: The movement’s success motivated Indians to join Gandhi’s freedom struggle.
Q24. Who led the national freedom struggle inspired by the Swadeshi Movement?
(A) Lord Curzon
(B) Mahatma Gandhi
(C) Nawab Salimullah
(D) Dadabhai Naoroji
Answer: (B)
Explanation: The movement’s success inspired participation in Gandhi’s freedom struggle.
Q25. Why is the Swadeshi Movement considered an important event in India’s freedom struggle?
(A) It ended British rule
(B) It marked the success of the anti-partition movement
(C) It promoted foreign goods
(D) It weakened Congress
Answer: (B)
Explanation: The movement’s victory against the partition was a key milestone.
Q26. What role did the Swadeshi Movement play in India’s industrial development?
(A) Reduced local industries
(B) Encouraged starting local industries
(C) Increased British exports
(D) Focused on foreign investments
Answer: (B)
Explanation: The movement promoted local industries, aiding industrial growth.
Q27. How did the Swadeshi Movement affect the Indian National Congress’s strategy?
(A) It made Congress avoid mass movements
(B) It shifted Congress toward mass struggle
(C) It aligned Congress with British policies
(D) It limited Congress to Bengal
Answer: (B)
Explanation: Congress adopted mass struggle as a strategy after the movement.
Q28. What was the significance of the 1906 Calcutta session of Congress?
(A) It supported the partition
(B) It demanded Swaraj for the first time
(C) It formed the Muslim League
(D) It boycotted national schools
Answer: (B)
Explanation: The session marked Congress’s first formal demand for Swaraj.
Q29. What did the Swadeshi Movement demonstrate about British rule?
(A) It was unbeatable
(B) It could be challenged through mass movements
(C) It supported Indian industries
(D) It promoted Hindu-Muslim unity
Answer: (B)
Explanation: The movement showed that British rule could be opposed through united efforts.
Q30. How did the Swadeshi Movement influence future freedom struggles?
(A) It discouraged participation
(B) It inspired Indians to strengthen national movements
(C) It focused only on economic issues
(D) It weakened national unity
Answer: (B)
Explanation: The movement’s success motivated Indians to join later freedom struggles.
Miscellaneous MCQs (Moderate Level)
Q1. What was the strategic motive behind Lord Curzon’s partition of Bengal, as revealed by Herbert Risley’s letter?
(A) To promote economic development
(B) To destroy Hindu-Muslim unity
(C) To improve administrative efficiency
(D) To expand tea trade in Assam
Answer: (B)
Explanation: Herbert Risley’s letter to Curzon noted that a united Bengal was a strong force, and the partition aimed to weaken this unity by dividing Hindus and Muslims.
Q2. Why did the British consider Bengal’s vast size a pretext for its partition in 1905?
(A) To justify communal division
(B) To reduce population density
(C) To claim administrative challenges
(D) To promote regional autonomy
Answer: (C)
Explanation: The British used Bengal’s large area and population as an excuse, claiming it was hard to govern under one Lieutenant Governor.
Q3. How did Andrew Fraser’s 1903 partition plan differ from William E. Ward’s earlier proposal?
(A) It included fewer districts
(B) It proposed a slight boundary change
(C) It excluded Assam entirely
(D) It focused on West Bengal
Answer: (B)
Explanation: Fraser modified Ward’s plan by making slight boundary adjustments for annexing Dhaka, Chattagram, and Rajshahi to Assam.
Q4. What was the population ratio of Muslims to Hindus in the proposed Eastern Bengal and Assam province?
(A) 1:1
(B) 3:2
(C) 2:1
(D) 4:3
Answer: (B)
Explanation: Eastern Bengal and Assam had 1.8 crore Muslims and 1.2 crore Hindus, a 3:2 ratio.
Q5. Why was Dhaka chosen as the capital of Eastern Bengal and Assam?
(A) It was a major trade hub
(B) To shift focus from Calcutta
(C) It was closer to Assam
(D) To appease Hindu leaders
Answer: (B)
Explanation: Dhaka’s selection aimed to reduce Calcutta’s influence as a nationalist center.
Q6. What was the significance of the Risley Papers in the partition process?
(A) They proposed the partition plan
(B) They were the official declaration of partition
(C) They outlined Assam’s creation
(D) They criticized British policies
Answer: (B)
Explanation: Declared by Herbert Risley on 6th December 1903, the Risley Papers formalized the partition proposal.
Q7. How did the partition plan aim to marginalize Hindu-Bengalis politically?
(A) By increasing their population in Assam
(B) By making them a minority in both provinces
(C) By granting them more administrative roles
(D) By promoting their nationalist activities
Answer: (B)
Explanation: The partition ensured Hindu-Bengalis were minorities in Eastern Bengal and Assam and the new Bengal province.
Q8. What was the underlying British strategy in offering political loyalty to Muslims during the partition?
(A) To strengthen Indian nationalism
(B) To counter politically active Hindu-Bengalis
(C) To promote economic equality
(D) To reduce communal tensions
Answer: (B)
Explanation: The British sought Muslim loyalty to weaken the influence of politically conscious Hindu-Bengalis.
Q9. Why did the Swadeshi Movement’s boycott extend beyond goods to British institutions?
(A) To promote British education
(B) To express non-cooperation with British rule
(C) To increase foreign imports
(D) To support communal harmony
Answer: (B)
Explanation: Aurobindo Ghose’s call for non-cooperation led to boycotts of British courts, schools, and administration.
Q10. What made the Swadeshi Movement a national rather than a regional struggle?
(A) Support from Maharashtra, South India, and North-East India
(B) British government’s endorsement
(C) Limited participation from Bengal
(D) Focus on Assam’s tea trade
Answer: (A)
Explanation: The movement spread to regions like Maharashtra, South India, and North-East India, making it national.
Q11. How did Rabindranath Tagore’s Rakhibandhan ceremony on 16th October 1905 contribute to the movement?
(A) It promoted British goods
(B) It strengthened Hindu-Muslim unity
(C) It opposed national education
(D) It supported the partition
Answer: (B)
Explanation: The ceremony, with Rakhis tied at mosques, symbolized unity between Hindus and Muslims against the partition.
Q12. What was the significance of the Anti Circular Society formed on 4th November 1905?
(A) It supported British education
(B) It defied R.W. Carlyle’s order against student protests
(C) It promoted foreign goods
(D) It organized the Muslim League
Answer: (B)
Explanation: The society was formed to oppose the government’s ban on student participation in the movement.
Q13. Why was the Dawn Society established by Satish Chandra Mukherjee significant?
(A) It promoted British rule
(B) It spread patriotic feelings among students
(C) It supported the partition
(D) It focused on economic reforms
Answer: (B)
Explanation: The society encouraged students to embrace national education and patriotism.
Q14. How did the establishment of Banga Jatiya Vidyalay challenge British authority?
(A) By promoting British curriculum
(B) By offering an alternative to British education
(C) By supporting the partition
(D) By closing government schools
Answer: (B)
Explanation: Founded by Tagore, the school provided national education, opposing British-controlled institutions.
Q15. What was the strategic impact of establishing 62 secondary and 3000 primary schools during the movement?
(A) Strengthened British education
(B) Promoted national education and identity
(C) Reduced student participation
(D) Supported foreign trade
Answer: (B)
Explanation: These schools fostered a sense of national identity, countering British educational influence.
Q16. Why was Sarala Devi Choudhurini’s Bharati magazine significant during the Swadeshi Movement?
(A) It criticized Indian nationalism
(B) It trained youth for revolutionary activities
(C) It supported British policies
(D) It focused on economic issues
Answer: (B)
Explanation: Bharati inspired and prepared Bengal’s youth for the national movement.
Q17. How did Sister Nivedita’s association with the Dawn Society impact the movement?
(A) Promoted British loyalty
(B) Encouraged indigenous industries and independence
(C) Supported the partition
(D) Focused on religious reforms
Answer: (B)
Explanation: Nivedita’s work with the society promoted self-reliance and nationalist ideals.
Q18. What was the long-term impact of Banga Lakshi Cotton Mill established in 1906?
(A) Increased British imports
(B) Laid the foundation for modern Indian industries
(C) Reduced local production
(D) Supported communal division
Answer: (B)
Explanation: The mill, founded by Nilratan Sarkar, contributed to India’s industrial growth.
Q19. Why was the first Indian industrial summit in Varanasi in 1905 a turning point?
(A) It promoted British goods
(B) It awakened Indians to indigenous industrial potential
(C) It opposed local industries
(D) It supported the partition
Answer: (B)
Explanation: The summit, chaired by R.C. Dutta, encouraged the growth of Indian industries.
Q20. How did Lord Curzon’s 1904 Dhaka rally aim to influence the partition’s outcome?
(A) To promote Hindu-Muslim unity
(B) To gain Muslim support for the partition
(C) To oppose the Swadeshi Movement
(D) To encourage national education
Answer: (B)
Explanation: Curzon’s rally in Dhaka on 18th February 1904 sought Muslim backing by promising benefits.
Q21. What financial incentive did Lord Curzon offer Nawab Salimullah to support the partition?
(A) A tax exemption
(B) A loan of Rs. 14 lacs at low interest
(C) A trade subsidy
(D) A land grant
Answer: (B)
Explanation: Curzon provided Nawab Salimullah a Rs. 14 lac loan to secure his support.
Q22. Why did the Morley-Minto Reforms of 1909 favor the Muslim League’s demands?
(A) To promote Indian unity
(B) To grant Muslims a separate electorate
(C) To cancel the partition
(D) To support national industries
Answer: (B)
Explanation: The reforms gave Muslims a separate electorate, aligning with the League’s petition.
Q23. What was the strategic purpose of transferring the Muslim League’s head office to Lucknow in 1910?
(A) To weaken its influence
(B) To expand its reach beyond Bengal
(C) To support the Swadeshi Movement
(D) To align with Congress
Answer: (B)
Explanation: The move aimed to broaden the League’s influence across India.
Q24. Why did the Muslim League’s influence decline after 1911?
(A) It supported the Swadeshi Movement
(B) The partition of Bengal was repealed
(C) It merged with Congress
(D) It lost British support
Answer: (B)
Explanation: The repeal of the partition reduced the League’s relevance, as it was tied to partition support.
Q25. How did the Swadeshi Movement’s success influence Mahatma Gandhi’s strategies?
(A) It discouraged mass movements
(B) It inspired non-cooperation and boycott tactics
(C) It focused on armed struggles
(D) It supported British loyalty
Answer: (B)
Explanation: The movement’s boycott and mass participation inspired Gandhi’s later strategies.
Q26. What was the significance of the National Congress’s 1903 Madras session warning against the partition?
(A) It supported British policies
(B) It marked early resistance to British plans
(C) It demanded immediate Swaraj
(D) It formed the Muslim League
Answer: (B)
Explanation: The warning showed Congress’s proactive stance against the partition plan.
Q27. Why did Lala Lajpat Rai and Gopal Krishna Gokhale’s 1905 London visit fail to stop the partition?
(A) They supported the partition
(B) The British ignored their petition
(C) They lacked public support
(D) They arrived after the partition
Answer: (B)
Explanation: Despite their petition, the British proceeded with the partition on 16th October 1905.
Q28. How did Bipin Chandra Pal’s call to return British titles impact the movement?
(A) It weakened Congress unity
(B) It strengthened anti-British resolve
(C) It supported moderate leaders
(D) It reduced public participation
Answer: (B)
Explanation: The call, followed by Gokhale’s action, reinforced opposition to British rule.
Q29. What was the strategic failure of Lord Curzon’s offers to moderate Congress leaders?
(A) They increased British support
(B) They failed to curb the anti-partition movement
(C) They united Hindus and Muslims
(D) They canceled the partition
Answer: (B)
Explanation: Leaders like Banerjee and Gokhale rejected offers, strengthening the movement.
Q30. Why was the Swadeshi Movement’s demand for Swaraj in 1906 a turning point?
(A) It ended British rule
(B) It shifted Congress from reform to self-rule
(C) It supported the partition
(D) It focused on economic issues only
Answer: (B)
Explanation: The demand marked Congress’s shift toward seeking self-government.
Q31. How did the execution of Prafulla Chaki influence women’s participation in the movement?
(A) It discouraged their involvement
(B) It led to widespread fasting and mourning
(C) It supported British policies
(D) It reduced Hindu-Muslim unity
Answer: (B)
Explanation: Families fasted and mourned, drawing women into the movement.
Q32. What was the significance of Bhabaneswari Devi’s call after Bhupendra Nath Dutta’s torture?
(A) It weakened the movement
(B) It mobilized thousands of women
(C) It supported British rule
(D) It focused on economic reforms
Answer: (B)
Explanation: Her call inspired thousands of women to join the mass movement.
Q33. Why did some activists turn to armed movements during the Swadeshi Movement?
(A) To support British rule
(B) Due to frustration with peaceful methods
(C) To promote foreign goods
(D) To align with the Muslim League
Answer: (B)
Explanation: Some activists, seeing limited success, adopted violent methods.
Q34. How did the Swadeshi Movement’s economic boycott impact British trade?
(A) Increased British exports
(B) Reduced imports of foreign goods
(C) Strengthened British industries
(D) Promoted communal division
Answer: (B)
Explanation: The boycott significantly lowered British goods’ imports to India.
Q35. What was the role of Jatiya Siksha Parisad formed in 1906?
(A) To promote British education
(B) To advance national education
(C) To support the partition
(D) To organize armed movements
Answer: (B)
Explanation: Led by Rasbihari Bose, it promoted national education institutions.
Q36. Why was the establishment of Bengal Chemicals by Prafulla Chandra Roy significant?
(A) It supported British industries
(B) It boosted indigenous industrial growth
(C) It opposed national education
(D) It promoted communalism
Answer: (B)
Explanation: The company fostered self-reliance in chemical production.
Q37. How did the Swadeshi Movement influence India’s literary landscape?
(A) It reduced literary output
(B) It inspired patriotic literature and songs
(C) It supported British publications
(D) It focused on religious texts
Answer: (B)
Explanation: Works by Tagore, Ghose, and others fueled nationalist sentiment.
Q38. What was the impact of the Bangar Sarbanash article in Sanjibani?
(A) It supported the partition
(B) It sparked public outrage against the partition
(C) It promoted British goods
(D) It criticized national education
Answer: (B)
Explanation: Published in 1904, it created a strong anti-partition sentiment.
Q39. Why was the 7th August 1905 Kasimbazar meeting a milestone?
(A) It canceled the partition
(B) It formalized the boycott of British goods
(C) It formed the Muslim League
(D) It supported British rule
Answer: (B)
Explanation: The meeting, led by Maharaja Manindra Chandra Nandi, passed a unanimous boycott resolution.
Q40. How did the Swadeshi Movement’s student protests challenge British authority?
(A) By supporting government schools
(B) By walking out and forming national schools
(C) By accepting British titles
(D) By promoting foreign goods
Answer: (B)
Explanation: Students left British schools and established national institutions, defying British control.
Q41. What was the strategic importance of the Federal Hall foundation on 16th October 1905?
(A) It promoted British unity
(B) It symbolized Bengal’s unity and heritage
(C) It supported the partition
(D) It focused on economic reforms
Answer: (B)
Explanation: Laid by Ananda Mohan Bose, it represented resistance and unity against the partition.
Q42. Why did the British fail to gain moderate Congress leaders’ support for the partition?
(A) Leaders accepted all British offers
(B) Leaders like Gokhale rejected titles and posts
(C) Leaders supported the Muslim League
(D) Leaders focused on economic issues
Answer: (B)
Explanation: Rejections, like Gokhale’s return of his Knighthood, thwarted British plans.
Q43. How did the Swadeshi Movement’s boycott affect India’s economic self-reliance?
(A) It increased dependence on British goods
(B) It fostered growth of local industries
(C) It reduced industrial output
(D) It supported foreign investments
Answer: (B)
Explanation: The boycott led to the rise of industries like Banga Lakshi Cotton Mill and Bengal Chemicals.
Q44. What was the role of the 23rd September 1905 Rajabazar rally in the movement?
(A) It supported the partition
(B) It promoted Hindu-Muslim unity
(C) It opposed national education
(D) It formed the National Congress
Answer: (B)
Explanation: Led by Abdul Rasul, the rally showcased inter-community solidarity against the partition.
Q45. Why was the All India Muslim League’s formation in 1906 significant?
(A) It united Hindus and Muslims
(B) It weakened Indian National Congress
(C) It opposed the Swadeshi Movement
(D) It promoted national industries
Answer: (B)
Explanation: The League, backed by the British, became a rival to Congress, dividing Indian politics.
Q46. How did the Swadeshi Movement’s focus on national education impact Bengal’s youth?
(A) It aligned them with British rule
(B) It instilled patriotic and nationalist ideals
(C) It reduced their participation
(D) It supported communalism
Answer: (B)
Explanation: National schools and societies like Dawn Society inspired youth with nationalist values.
Q47. What was the significance of the Banga Mata painting by Abanindranath Thakur?
(A) It promoted British art
(B) It established Indian fine arts
(C) It criticized the movement
(D) It supported the partition
Answer: (B)
Explanation: The painting, later renamed Bharat Mata, symbolized Indian cultural identity.
Q48. Why did the Swadeshi Movement’s success lead to the repeal of Bengal’s partition?
(A) British support for Indian unity
(B) Intense public protests and boycotts
(C) Muslim League’s opposition
(D) Economic growth in Bengal
Answer: (B)
Explanation: Sustained protests and economic pressure forced the British to reunite Bengal in 1911.
Q49. How did the Swadeshi Movement’s armed movements influence later freedom struggles?
(A) They discouraged violent methods
(B) They inspired revolutionary activities
(C) They supported British rule
(D) They focused on economic reforms
Answer: (B)
Explanation: The movement’s armed tendencies influenced later revolutionary groups against British rule.
Q50. What was the broader impact of the Swadeshi Movement on India’s freedom struggle?
(A) It weakened national unity
(B) It inspired mass movements and Swaraj demands
(C) It supported British policies
(D) It limited protests to Bengal
Answer: (B)
Explanation: The movement’s success inspired nationwide mass movements and the demand for self-rule.
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