Describe the Faqir and Sanyasi rebellions of Bengal.

1. 1 · Set the scene. After 1757 the British controlled Bengal and raised land revenue, and peasants were badly exploited.
2. 2 · The trigger. The great Bengal famine of 1770 brought landless peasants, displaced zamindars, disbanded soldiers and the poor together in revolt.
3. 3 · Who joined and led. The Faqirs (wandering Muslim holy men) and the Sanyasis joined them. Majnu Shah (Maznoom Shah in your lesson) was a leading figure, supported by Bhawani Pathak and Devi Choudhurani.
4. 4 · What they did. They raided English factories and seized goods, cash and arms. The Sanyasis were also angered by British limits on pilgrims.
5. 5 · Close in one line. The British brought them under control early in the 19th century, but the risings showed early peasant anger.

Scoring tip: Write the dates (1770 to 1820s) and at least two leaders' names; the examiner looks for these first.