Question

Which of the following was the division of Indian history made by James Mill?
A. Early ages, Middle ages and modern ages.
B.Old age, middle age and contemporary age
C.Ancient, medieval and modern
D.Hindu, Muslim and British.

Answer 1

Hint: James Mill is a well known Scottish historian, economist, political theorist. He is the founder of the Ricardian School of Economics. His famous book is ‘History of British India’.

Complete answer: 

Mill was of the belief that European countries were much more superior than Asian countries. He divided the Indian history into three parts- The Hindu, Muslim and the British. According to his own version of history, before the British came to India, the religion during the period of the Hindus and the Muslims was filled with taboos and superstitious beliefs. Mill was of the opinion that British rule could civilize India. European art, rules and law, he felt, could help the people to arrive at enlightenment because otherwise India was incapable without British help. However there are several problems with the classification that James Mill had to offer. The division was not feasible because various faults existed during the Hindu and Muslim rule. For example during the rule of Hindu kings people of other faiths coexisted peacefully.

Thus, Option D is the right answer.

Note: The periodization by James Mill was not correct because it divided the people on the basis of their religion. The viewpoint of Mill was a very reductionist one. James Mill was the father of John Stuart Mill, a very well known philosopher of liberalism and utilitarianism.