What is the problem with the periodisation of Indian history that James Mill offers?
Social StudiesClass 8CBSEAnswered 27 Mar 2026
Answer
The problem with the periodisation of Indian History that James Mill offers is the superiority of the British shown over Hindus and Muslims. James Mill has divided Indian History into three periods – Hindu, Muslim and British, claiming that it was necessary to introduce European manners, arts, institutions and laws in India.
James Mill’s views have several defects given below:
- He thought that all Asian societies were at a lower level of civilisation when compared to Europe.
- According to his telling of history, before the British came to India, Hindu and Muslim despots ruled the country.
- Religious intolerance, caste taboos and superstitious practices dominated social life before the British came to India
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