Part of: West Bengal Gk set 7

In 1770 a terrible famine killed ten million people in

Category: West Bengal Gk

Hint: Consider the historical context of British colonial rule and the region affected by the famine.

Correct Answer: C) Bengal

Exam Relevance: UPSC, SSC, State PSC

Difficulty: Moderate

Explanations:

The 1770 Bengal famine, also known as the Great Bengal Famine, was a catastrophic event that occurred in the Bengal region of India during British colonial rule. This famine is one of the most significant historical events in the region, resulting in the death of an estimated ten million people. The famine primarily affected the Bengal region, which includes parts of present-day West Bengal, Bangladesh, and parts of Bihar.

The causes of the famine were multifaceted. Natural factors such as a severe drought and crop failure played a significant role. However, the famine was also exacerbated by British colonial policies. The British East India Company, which controlled the region, implemented policies that prioritized the export of grain and other agricultural products to generate revenue. This led to a shortage of food for the local population, which was already struggling with the effects of the drought.

The famine had a profound impact on the region and its people. It led to widespread suffering, displacement, and death. The event also highlighted the negative consequences of colonial policies and the vulnerability of the region to natural disasters and economic mismanagement. The 1770 Bengal famine remains a significant part of Indian history and is often studied to understand the impact of colonial rule and the importance of food security.

It is important to note that while parts of Bihar were affected by the famine, the primary region impacted was Bengal. The famine is historically known as the Great Bengal Famine, emphasizing the significant impact on the Bengal region. This historical event serves as a reminder of the complex interplay between natural disasters, economic policies, and social structures that can lead to such catastrophic outcomes.

Option Analysis:
  • Option A: Mysore was not the region affected by the 1770 famine. The famine primarily impacted the Bengal region, which was under British control at the time. Mysore, located in the south of India, was not significantly affected by this particular famine.
  • Option B: Hyderabad was not the region affected by the 1770 famine. The famine primarily impacted the Bengal region, which was under British control at the time. Hyderabad, located in the Deccan region, was not significantly affected by this particular famine.
  • Option C: The 1770 Bengal famine, also known as the Great Bengal Famine, occurred in the Bengal region, which includes parts of present-day West Bengal, Bangladesh, and parts of Bihar. The famine was a result of a combination of natural and man-made factors, including crop failure and British colonial policies.
  • Option D: While parts of Bihar were affected by the 1770 famine, the primary region impacted was Bengal. The famine is historically known as the Great Bengal Famine, emphasizing the significant impact on the Bengal region.

Mnemonic: Bengal's Bitter Bite: 1770 Famine

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