Unit 2: India, England & the Age of De-Colonization Study Guide

A set of vocabulary flashcards covering key terms and concepts from Unit 2 on India, England, and the Age of De-Colonization.

New Imperialism

A phase of imperialism characterized by a focus on establishing colonies for economic gain and strategic advantage during the late 19th century.

De-Colonization

The process by which colonies gain independence from colonial powers, often occurring in the mid-20th century.

The Mughal Empire

A significant historical empire in India known for its wealth, cultural advancements, and architectural achievements during the 16th to 19th centuries.

The British East India Company

A trading company established in 1600 that played a significant role in the establishment of British colonial rule in India.

Capitalism

An economic system characterized by private ownership of capital goods and the means of production, driven by profit.

Labor Unions

Organized associations of workers that advocate for improved working conditions and rights.

The Peterloo Massacre (1819)

A violent confrontation between the cavalry and a large crowd of anti-government protestors in Manchester, England.

Socialism

A political and economic theory advocating for collective or governmental ownership of the means of production.

Utopian Socialism

A form of socialism that envisions a perfect society based on cooperative and communal living.

Scientific Socialism / Marxism

A theory of socialism based on the ideas of Karl Marx, emphasizing class struggle and the need for revolutionary change.

Utilitarianism

A moral philosophy asserting that actions are right if they promote happiness and wrong if they produce the opposite.

Indian Independence Movements 1857-1947

A series of movements aimed at achieving independence from British rule in India, culminating in 1947.

The Sepoy Rebellion / Indian Uprising (1857)

A major, but ultimately unsuccessful, uprising against the British East India Company, sparked by cultural and political grievances.

Mangal Pandey

An Indian soldier whose rebellion against British officers is often considered the catalyst for the Sepoy Rebellion.

Queen Laxmibai

A leading figure in the Indian Rebellion of 1857, known for her bravery and leadership in the fight against British rule.

Mohandas K. Gandhi

A leader in the Indian independence movement known for his philosophy of non-violent resistance and civil disobedience.

Jawaharlal Nehru

The first Prime Minister of India and a central figure in Indian politics both before and after independence.

The Amritsar Massacre

A tragic event in 1919 where British troops killed hundreds of Indian civilians protesting against colonial oppression.

Social Darwinism

A theory that applies the concept of 'survival of the fittest' to social and economic issues, often used to justify imperialism.

Indian Partition (1947)

The division of British India into two independent dominions, India and Pakistan, which resulted in significant violence and displacement.