Great Famine

Definition

The Great Famine refers to a devastating period of widespread hunger and malnutrition that affected India during the late 19th century, particularly between 1876 and 1878. This event was marked by massive crop failures due to drought, exacerbated by colonial policies that prioritized export over local food needs. The famine had a significant impact on the social, economic, and cultural landscape of India, influencing various religious movements, including the rise of Jainism as a response to societal suffering.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Great Famine caused the deaths of millions of people across India, with estimates ranging from 5 to 10 million fatalities.
2. Colonial policies during this time prioritized cash crops for export, severely limiting food supplies for local populations.
3. The famine led to increased awareness of social injustices, prompting reform movements that sought to address inequality and suffering.
4. Jainism's principles of non-violence and compassion gained traction during this period as people sought alternative ways to cope with widespread despair.
5. The Great Famine served as a catalyst for changes in agricultural practices and policies in India, leading to future reforms aimed at preventing similar disasters.

Review Questions

• How did the Great Famine influence the rise of Jainism during the late 19th century?
  • The Great Famine highlighted deep social inequalities and suffering in society, prompting many individuals to seek spiritual solace and ethical frameworks that addressed these issues. Jainism's emphasis on non-violence and compassion resonated with those affected by the famine, leading to its increased popularity as a moral response to the hardships experienced by the population. This period also encouraged a re-evaluation of traditional beliefs and practices, as people looked for ways to alleviate suffering both spiritually and socially.
• Discuss the impact of colonial policies on food availability during the Great Famine in India.
  • Colonial policies prioritized the production of cash crops for export, which severely reduced food availability for local populations. Instead of focusing on sustaining local agriculture and food security, these policies encouraged farmers to cultivate products that could be sold overseas. This exploitation created a dire situation during the Great Famine when crop failures occurred; the lack of locally grown food led to widespread starvation and suffering among communities that were already vulnerable.
• Evaluate the long-term consequences of the Great Famine on Indian society and its religious landscape.
  • The Great Famine had profound long-term consequences on Indian society, reshaping its social dynamics and leading to greater awareness of systemic issues. The suffering endured during this time prompted religious movements like Jainism to advocate for compassion and ethical living as essential responses to societal pain. Additionally, it spurred reforms aimed at addressing agricultural policies and social inequalities, fostering a sense of collective responsibility among citizens that would influence future generations in their pursuit of justice and equality.

Related terms

Jainism: An ancient Indian religion that emphasizes non-violence, truth, and asceticism, rooted in the belief in the liberation of the soul through ethical living and self-discipline.

Colonialism: The practice of acquiring full or partial political control over another country, often leading to exploitation of resources and disruption of local economies.

Relief Efforts: Initiatives aimed at providing aid to those affected by crises, including food distribution and medical assistance during times of famine.