Who was the Viceroy of India in 1905?

The correct answer is George Curzon.

Key Points

• Lord George Curzon served as the Viceroy of India from 1899 to 1905.
• He is known for the partition of Bengal in 1905, which aimed to improve administrative efficiency but led to widespread protests.
• Curzon implemented several reforms, including the establishment of the Archaeological Survey of India to preserve India's historical monuments.
• He introduced measures to improve agriculture and irrigation, such as the creation of the Punjab Land Alienation Act to protect peasants.
• Curzon's tenure was marked by policies emphasizing British control, which stirred nationalist sentiments in India.

Additional Information

• Partition of Bengal (1905):
  • It divided Bengal into East Bengal (Muslim-majority) and West Bengal (Hindu-majority).
  • The move was perceived as an attempt to divide and rule, fueling the Swadeshi Movement.
• Archaeological Survey of India (ASI):
  • Curzon revitalized ASI to document and protect India's cultural heritage.
  • Major restoration projects included the Taj Mahal and Qutub Minar.
• Educational Reforms:
  • Curzon focused on improving higher education and established the Universities Act of 1904.
  • The act aimed to standardize university governance and curricula.
• Nationalist Response:
  • Curzon’s policies, especially the partition of Bengal, intensified Indian nationalist movements.
  • Organizations like the Indian National Congress gained momentum during his tenure.