South Asia and Southeast Asia: Key Concepts and Countries

What is nationalism?

Pride in one's country.

What is nonviolent resistance?

Opposing your enemy without fighting.

What does boycott mean?

Refusing to buy or use goods.

What is partition?

To divide into parts.

Why was India considered the 'crown jewel' of the British Empire?

Because of its valuable resources and textiles.

What was the significance of August 15, 1947, for India?

India declared independence from Great Britain.

Who led the Indian independence movement?

Mohandas Gandhi.

What does 'Mahatma' mean?

Great Soul.

What was Gandhi's strategy to promote Indian independence?

Encouraging people to make their own clothing.

Who was the first prime minister of India?

Jawaharlal Nehru.

What were the main religious conflicts in India?

Between Hindus and Muslims.

When were India and Pakistan created?

In 1947.

What is the dominant religion of India?

Hinduism.

What is the dominant religion of Pakistan?

Islam.

How many people migrated during the partition?

12 million.

How many people were killed in the fighting during the partition?

1 million.

What territory is disputed between India and Pakistan?

Kashmir.

What country was created in 1971?

Bangladesh.

What is the unifying cultural element of Bangladesh and Pakistan?

Islam.

What language is primarily spoken in Pakistan?

Urdu.

What language is primarily spoken in Bangladesh?

Bengali.

What is the main economic activity in Bangladesh?

Agriculture.

What is the caste system?

The formal social structure of India.

What is a charpoy?

A wooden bed frame.

What is a sari?

A long cloth that is draped over the body.

What is purdah?

Covering your face with a veil.

What is a joint family system?

A multi-generation family.

What is a cottage industry?

Making goods in your home.

Who is considered the creator of Hinduism?

Brahma.

What is the Ganges river known for?

It is considered a holy river.

What do Sikhs believe regarding the caste system?

They do not believe in it.

What do Jains believe regarding living creatures?

They do not harm a living creature.

Why are most Indians vegetarians?

Due to religious beliefs and the cost of meat.

What is the greatest concern currently facing India?

Overpopulation.

What are the main health concerns in India?

Lack of basic medical care, clean water, and poor sewage system.

What is hydroelectric power?

Electricity produced by moving water.

What is malnutrition?

A lack of food.

What is deforestation?

Cutting down of forests.

What is the significance of the Himalayas to Pakistan?

They are considered the 'water tower' of the region.

What is the Indus River important for?

Drinking water, irrigation, and hydroelectricity.

What terrorist organization was based in Afghanistan in the 1990s?

Al Qaeda.

What challenges does Bangladesh face due to its high population?

Overcrowding, food shortages, and transportation issues.

What is the major religion in Nepal?

Hinduism.

What is the major religion in Bhutan?

Buddhism.

What does Sri Lanka mean?

Magnificent Island.

How do the Tamils and Sinhalese differ?

Tamils are Hindus and Sinhalese are Buddhists.