Question

“Although a rebel, he was one of the natural chieftain of the country and might be considered on that account rather a fallen enemy”, who said this ?

• A. Col. Macaulay
• B. Thomas Harvey Baber
• C. Sir Arthur Wellesley
• D. Pazhassi Raja

Answer 1

Answer:

B. Thomas Harvey Baber

About Thomas Harvey Baber:

• Thomas Harvey Baber was a British civil servant who served in the Madras Presidency, including in the region that is now Kerala.
• He held significant administrative positions and had a deep understanding of the local socio-political landscape.
• Baber's tenure in the region often coincided with periods of significant political and social change in the princely states like Travancore.

Context of the Statement:

• The quote likely refers to a prominent rebel leader or figure in Travancore or the surrounding regions during the British colonial era.
• The description highlights the complex relationship between the British administration and local leaders who, despite opposing British authority, were respected for their inherent leadership qualities and influence among the people.
• Baber's assessment suggests a nuanced view, acknowledging the leader's 'rebel' status but also recognizing their 'natural chieftain' qualities, implying a legitimacy derived from local support rather than just rebellion.
• The phrase 'fallen enemy' suggests that such a leader, though an adversary, was viewed with a degree of respect, possibly due to their status and the circumstances of their opposition.
• Such observations are crucial for understanding the dynamics of British rule in India, where administrators often had to navigate the complexities of local power structures and resistance movements.

Relevance for Competitive Exams:

• Understanding the perspectives of British officials like Baber provides insights into the historical interpretation of events and personalities in Kerala's history.
• Questions related to such quotes often test the ability to identify the speaker and understand the historical context and implications of their statements.
• Familiarity with key British officials who served in Kerala and their assessments of local leaders is important for topics related to the Princely States and the freedom struggle in the region.