What does it mean that thirty thousand men, not athletes but rather weak and ordinary people, have subdued two hundred million vigorous, clever, capable, and freedom-loving people? Do not the figures make it clear that it is not the English who have enslaved the Indians, but the Indians who have enslaved themselves?
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- The quote questions whether the subjugation of millions is self‑imposed rather than imposed by the English.
- In plain terms
- It suggests Indians have enslaved themselves, not the English.
- What can you take from it?
- Examine internal factors contributing to oppression.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- What internal dynamics enable oppression?
- How can self‑agency be fostered?
Another view
Simplifies complex colonial history.
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