My Experiences in Manipur and the Naga Hills Trivia Quiz Questions and Answers

What was the primary goal of Sir James Johnstone as the British Political Agent in Manipur and the Naga Hills?

  • To establish British control over the region.
  • To encourage trade and economic development.
  • To protect the interests of the local tribes.
  • To promote peace and harmony between the various groups.

Correct Answer: To protect the interests of the local tribes.

Correct Answer Explanation: Although the British had a vested interest in asserting their authority, Johnstone emphasized the importance of understanding and respecting native cultures and traditions. He believed that the machine-like system imposed by the British was ill-suited to the region and advocated for a more personalized approach to governance.

What was the “Lalloop” system in Manipur?

  • A form of taxation levied on the tribes.
  • A system of forced labor for public works.
  • A religious ritual practiced by the Manipuri people.
  • A traditional method of dispute resolution.

Correct Answer: A system of forced labor for public works.

Correct Answer Explanation: The “Lalloop” system was a form of forced labor that required men to serve the Rajah for ten days out of every forty. This system was often used for public works projects and was a source of resentment among the Manipuri people.

Which of the following tribes were known for their resistance to British authority and their skill in warfare?

  • The Kukis
  • The Cacharees
  • The Angami Nagas
  • The Mombee Kukis

Correct Answer: The Angami Nagas

Correct Answer Explanation: The Angami Nagas were a powerful and proud tribe known for their resistance to British authority. They were adept at warfare and used spears, swords, poison, and intricate drill formations in their battles.

What was the significance of the “Kohima Stone”?

  • It was a sacred artifact of the Naga tribes.
  • It was a symbol of the British victory over the Angami Nagas.
  • It was a symbol of Manipur’s authority over the Nagas.
  • It was a marker of the border between Manipur and the Naga Hills.

Correct Answer: It was a symbol of Manipur’s authority over the Nagas.

Correct Answer Explanation: The Kohima Stone was a rock with the footprints of Rajah Ghumbeer Singh carved into it, dating back to 1832 after he subdued the village of Kohima. This stone served as a symbolic representation of Manipur’s control over the Nagas.

Who was the British officer who was instrumental in securing the loyalty of the Kuki tribes?

  • Sir James Johnstone
  • Colonel McCulloch
  • Captain Younghusband
  • Major Grant

Correct Answer: Colonel McCulloch

Correct Answer Explanation: Colonel McCulloch was a key figure in Manipur during the 19th century and was known for his ability to forge alliances with various tribes in the region. He played a crucial role in securing the loyalty of the Kuki tribes, who were often involved in conflicts with other groups.

What was the “Kongal Outrage”?

  • A Burmese attack on a Manipuri outpost in 1877.
  • A rebellion by the Angami Nagas against the British.
  • A massacre of the Cacharee tribe by the Angami Nagas.
  • A religious riot in Imphal.

Correct Answer: A Burmese attack on a Manipuri outpost in 1877.

Correct Answer Explanation: The “Kongal Outrage” was a Burmese attack on a Manipuri outpost at Kongal Tannah in 1877. This incident escalated tensions between Manipur and Burmah and highlighted the British government’s reluctance to take a stronger stance against Burmese aggression.

What was the primary reason for the British annexation of Upper Burmah in 1885-86?

  • To secure access to the rich resources of the region.
  • To protect the interests of the Manipuri kingdom.
  • To prevent the Burmese from encroaching on British territory.
  • To establish a trade route to China.

Correct Answer: To prevent the Burmese from encroaching on British territory.

Correct Answer Explanation: The Burmese war of 1885-86 was a significant turning point in the political landscape of the region. The British annexation of Upper Burmah was driven by their concern that Burmese expansion threatened their interests in the region. This annexation further solidified British control over Northeast India.

Which of the following was NOT a major challenge faced by Sir James Johnstone during his time as Political Agent?

  • Maintaining peace between the various tribes.
  • Dealing with the complex political situation in Manipur.
  • Establishing a system of British administration that was acceptable to the local people.
  • Suppressing the opium trade in the region.

Correct Answer: Suppressing the opium trade in the region.

Correct Answer Explanation: While opium was a significant commodity in other parts of British India, the text doesn’t mention it as a major challenge for Johnstone in Manipur and the Naga Hills. His primary focus was on managing the complex relationships between the British, the Manipuri Durbar, and the various tribes, while also trying to navigate the intricacies of colonial administration in a remote and culturally diverse region.

How did Johnstone attempt to modernize Manipur?

  • By introducing new technologies, such as railroads and telegraphs.
  • By promoting Western education and cultural practices.
  • By encouraging the growth of agriculture and industry.
  • By introducing new arts and crafts, such as carpet making and leather work.

Correct Answer: By introducing new arts and crafts, such as carpet making and leather work.

Correct Answer Explanation: Johnstone’s efforts to modernize Manipur focused on introducing new crafts, such as carpet making and leather work. This approach aimed at improving the economic prospects of the region and fostering cultural development while also integrating Manipur more fully into the British economic system.

What was the distance between Cachar and Manipur?

  • 50 miles
  • 100 miles
  • 132 miles
  • 200 miles

Correct Answer: 132 miles

Correct Answer Explanation: The text mentions that the distance between Cachar and Manipur is about 132 miles, highlighting the vast geographical distances and the challenges of communication and transportation in the region.

Which of the following was NOT a key finding in Sir James Johnstone’s memoir?

  • The British colonial government’s approach to the Naga Hills was characterized by timidity.
  • The Angami Nagas were adept at warfare and poisoning.
  • Manipur was a stable and prosperous state under Rajah Chandra Kirtee Singh.
  • Johnstone’s experience highlights the challenges of balancing colonial authority with respecting native customs.

Correct Answer: Manipur was a stable and prosperous state under Rajah Chandra Kirtee Singh.

Correct Answer Explanation: Manipur, under Rajah Chandra Kirtee Singh, was a complex and often unstable state with a history of internal strife and assassination. The text does not portray it as a stable and prosperous state.

What was the average height of Angami Naga men?

  • 5 feet 4 inches
  • 5 feet 8 inches
  • 6 feet 2 inches
  • 6 feet 6 inches

Correct Answer: 5 feet 8 inches

Correct Answer Explanation: According to the text, the average height of Angami Naga men was between 5 feet 8 inches and 6 feet, reflecting their physical prowess and reputation as formidable warriors.

What was the name of the hill station near Manipur?

  • Kang-joop-kool
  • Kohima
  • Mao
  • Langthabal

Correct Answer: Kang-joop-kool

Correct Answer Explanation: The text mentions Kang-joop-kool as a hill station near Manipur, located about 5170 feet above sea level. This hill station was likely a retreat for British officials during the hot season.

What was the name of the Minister for Burmese Affairs in Manipur?

  • Thangal Major
  • Kotwal Koireng
  • Soor Chandra Singh
  • Aya Pooiel

Correct Answer: Aya Pooiel

Correct Answer Explanation: The text mentions that the Minister for Burmese Affairs in Manipur was known as Aya Pooiel, who was responsible for managing relations with the Burmese government.

What was the name of the influential minister who was a devoted supporter of Soor Chandra Singh?

  • Thangal Major
  • Kotwal Koireng
  • Soor Chandra Singh
  • Aya Pooiel

Correct Answer: Thangal Major

Correct Answer Explanation: The text mentions that Thangal Major was an influential minister who was a devoted supporter of Soor Chandra Singh, a significant figure in Manipuri politics.

What was the name of the prince who was known for his cruel and violent behavior?

  • Thangal Major
  • Kotwal Koireng
  • Soor Chandra Singh
  • Aya Pooiel

Correct Answer: Kotwal Koireng

Correct Answer Explanation: The text mentions Kotwal Koireng, later known as the Senaputtee, as a prince known for his cruel and violent behavior. His brutality led to demands for his banishment from Manipur.

What was the approximate population of Manipur in 1881?

  • 50,000
  • 100,000
  • 200,000
  • 300,000

Correct Answer: 200,000

Correct Answer Explanation: According to the text, the population of Manipur in 1881 was estimated to be around 200,000, highlighting the scale of the region and the diverse communities that inhabited it.

What was the name of the village where the Chussad Kukis attacked in 1880?

  • Chingsow
  • Kohima
  • Kendat
  • Pot-tha

Correct Answer: Chingsow

Correct Answer Explanation: The text mentions the Chussad Kukis attacking the Tankhool village of Chingsow in 1880, resulting in the deaths or capture of 45 villagers. This event highlights the ongoing tensions between different tribal groups and the volatility of the region.

What was the approximate number of men in the Manipuri army?

  • 1,000
  • 2,000
  • 5,000
  • 10,000

Correct Answer: 5,000

Correct Answer Explanation: The text mentions that the Manipuri army consisted of about 5,000 men, divided into eight infantry regiments and an artillery corps. This number reflects the military strength of Manipur during the 19th century.

What was the approximate length of the road from Manipur to Mao on the Naga Hills frontier?

  • 50 miles
  • 100 miles
  • 150 miles
  • 200 miles

Correct Answer: 100 miles

Correct Answer Explanation: The text mentions that the road from Manipur to Mao, on the Naga Hills frontier, was about 100 miles long, highlighting the challenges of travel and communication in the region.

What was the name of the Manipuri coin?

  • Rupee
  • Anna
  • Sel
  • Pice

Correct Answer: Sel

Correct Answer Explanation: The text mentions the “sel” as the Manipuri coin, with a rate of 480 sel equal to one rupee. This reflects the unique monetary system of Manipur during the 19th century.

What was the name of the Burmese governor of a province?

  • Woon
  • Phoongyee
  • Tsawbwa
  • Mombee

Correct Answer: Woon

Correct Answer Explanation: The text mentions “Woon” as the Burmese governor of a province, a title reflecting the administrative structure of the Burmese empire during that time.

What was the name of the British outpost that was attacked by the Burmese in 1877?

  • Kohima
  • Konoma
  • Kongal Tannah
  • Pot-tha

Correct Answer: Kongal Tannah

Correct Answer Explanation: The text mentions the Burmese attack on the Manipuri outpost at Kongal Tannah in 1877, an event that became known as the “Kongal Outrage.” This attack highlights the tensions between Manipur and Burmah during that time.

What was the name of the Shan chieftain?

  • Tsawbwa
  • Woon
  • Phoongyee
  • Mombee

Correct Answer: Tsawbwa

Correct Answer Explanation: The text mentions “Tsawbwa” as the title for a Shan chieftain, reflecting the Shan kingdoms that existed in Southeast Asia during that period.

What was the name of the Kuki tribe that lived on the Burmese border?

  • Mombee Kukis
  • Chussad Kukis
  • Tankhool Kukis
  • Naga Kukis

Correct Answer: Mombee Kukis

Correct Answer Explanation: The text mentions the “Mombee Kukis” as a Kuki tribe living on the Burmese border, highlighting the complex ethnic and tribal dynamics of the region.

Which of the following events tested the British colonial authority in the region?

  • The Kohima Stone
  • The Kongal Outrage
  • The Siege of Kohima
  • The Capture of Kendat

Correct Answer: The Siege of Kohima

Correct Answer Explanation: The Siege of Kohima in 1879, where the British garrison was besieged by hostile Naga tribes, tested the British resolve and required a significant military response to relieve the outpost. This event highlights the challenges of asserting British authority in the region.

Which of the following events demonstrated Sir James Johnstone’s military skills and leadership?

  • The Kohima Stone
  • The Kongal Outrage
  • The Siege of Kohima
  • The Capture of Kendat

Correct Answer: The Capture of Kendat

Correct Answer Explanation: The text mentions Johnstone’s successful capture of Kendat in 1885 during the Burmese war, highlighting his military skills and leadership in the region. This victory solidified British control over the area.

What was the name of the village where Johnstone led a night march against Burmese rebels in 1886?

  • Chingsow
  • Kohima
  • Kendat
  • Pot-tha

Correct Answer: Pot-tha

Correct Answer Explanation: The text mentions that Johnstone led a night march against Burmese rebels at Pot-tha, a village in the Kubo Valley, in 1886. This action reflects his military strategy and resolve in confronting the Burmese forces.

What was the name of the village where the British established a permanent post in 1878?

  • Kohima
  • Konoma
  • Kendat
  • Pot-tha

Correct Answer: Kohima

Correct Answer Explanation: The text mentions that the British established a permanent post at Kohima in 1878, moving the headquarters from Samagudting. This event marks the growing British presence and control over the Naga Hills.

What was the approximate number of houses in the village of Konoma?

  • 500
  • 1,000
  • 1,500
  • 2,000

Correct Answer: 1,000

Correct Answer Explanation: The text mentions that the village of Konoma had about 1,000 houses, highlighting the size and importance of this village in the region.

Which of the following events overshadowed the Naga Hills campaign of 1879-80?

  • The Siege of Kohima
  • The Afghan War
  • The Burmese War
  • The Indian Mutiny

Correct Answer: The Afghan War

Correct Answer Explanation: The text mentions that the Naga Hills campaign of 1879-80 was overshadowed by the Afghan War, a major conflict that attracted much greater attention from the British government. This explains why the troops involved in the Naga Hills campaign received little recognition for their service.

What was the name of the village where the British force lost 25% of their native ranks in 1879?

  • Kohima
  • Konoma
  • Kendat
  • Pot-tha

Correct Answer: Konoma

Correct Answer Explanation: The text mentions that the British force that attacked Konoma in 1879 lost 25% of their native ranks, killed or wounded. This highlights the intensity of the fighting and the casualties involved.

What was the approximate number of men in the British force that attacked Konoma in 1879-80?

  • 200
  • 500
  • 1,000
  • 2,000

Correct Answer: 1,000

Correct Answer Explanation: The text mentions that the British force that attacked Konoma in 1879-80 numbered about 1,000 men, indicating a significant military operation in the region.

What was the name of the village where the British force captured in 1885?

  • Kohima
  • Konoma
  • Kendat
  • Pot-tha

Correct Answer: Kendat

Correct Answer Explanation: The text mentions the British capture of Kendat in 1885, a strategic victory during the Burmese war that further solidified British control over the region.

What was the approximate number of men in the Burmese force that attacked Kendat in 1885?

  • 500
  • 1,000
  • 3,000
  • 5,000

Correct Answer: 3,000

Correct Answer Explanation: The text mentions that the Burmese force that attacked Kendat in 1885 was estimated to be about 3,000 men, highlighting the scale of the Burmese military response and the challenges faced by the British.

What was the approximate size of the new Residency compound in Manipur?

  • 5 acres
  • 10 acres
  • 16 acres
  • 20 acres

Correct Answer: 16 acres

Correct Answer Explanation: The text mentions that the new Residency compound in Manipur was about 16 acres, indicating a significant investment in British infrastructure and administrative presence in the region.

What was the name of the village where the British force lost 7 men killed and 25 wounded in 1886?

  • Kohima
  • Konoma
  • Kendat
  • Pot-tha

Correct Answer: Pot-tha

Correct Answer Explanation: The text mentions that the British lost 7 men killed and 25 wounded in the attack on Pot-tha in 1886, highlighting the cost of the British military operations in the region.

What was the approximate size of the Burmese force that defended Pot-tha in 1886?

  • 100
  • 200
  • 400 to 500
  • 1,000

Correct Answer: 400 to 500

Correct Answer Explanation: The text mentions that the Burmese force that defended Pot-tha was estimated to be 400 to 500 men, indicating a significant defensive force that posed a challenge to the British.

Which of the following was a major undertaking that required Johnstone to negotiate with the Durbar for land and resources?

  • The construction of the new Residency in Manipur
  • The introduction of new arts and crafts
  • The suppression of the opium trade
  • The establishment of a system of British administration

Correct Answer: The construction of the new Residency in Manipur

Correct Answer Explanation: The text mentions that the construction of the new Residency in Manipur was a major undertaking that required Johnstone to negotiate with the Durbar for land and resources. This highlights the need for collaboration and negotiation between the British and the Manipuri government in carrying out major infrastructure projects.

What was the approximate size of the valley of Manipur?

  • 200 square miles
  • 400 square miles
  • 650 square miles
  • 800 square miles

Correct Answer: 650 square miles

Correct Answer Explanation: The text mentions that the valley of Manipur is about 650 square miles, providing a sense of the scale of the region and its geographical features.

What was the name of the British officer who relieved Kohima during the siege in 1879?

  • Colonel McCulloch
  • Captain Younghusband
  • Major Grant
  • Sir James Johnstone

Correct Answer: Sir James Johnstone

Correct Answer Explanation: The text mentions that Sir James Johnstone led the force that relieved Kohima during the siege in 1879, demonstrating his leadership and military skills in a challenging situation.

What was the name of the influential minister who was accused of being involved in the 1891 rebellion against the British?

  • Thangal Major
  • Kotwal Koireng
  • Soor Chandra Singh
  • Aya Pooiel

Correct Answer: Thangal Major

Correct Answer Explanation: The text mentions that Thangal Major, who was an influential minister and devoted supporter of Soor Chandra Singh, was accused of being involved in the 1891 rebellion against the British. This highlights the political tensions and unrest that existed in Manipur during that time.

What was the name of the incident where Thangal Major’s disrespectful behavior toward Burmese messengers led to a conflict with Johnstone?

  • The Case of Kotwal Koireng
  • The Case of Thangal Major
  • The Incident of the Burmese Messengers
  • The Incident of the Stolen Mail

Correct Answer: The Incident of the Burmese Messengers

Correct Answer Explanation: The text mentions that Thangal Major’s disrespectful behavior toward the Burmese messengers, speaking in Manipuri instead of Hindoostani, led to a conflict with Johnstone, who demanded his removal from the position of Aya Pooiel. This incident showcases the cultural sensitivities and potential for conflict in a colonial context.

What was the name of the incident where the mail bag between Imphal and Langthabal was robbed in 1890?

  • The Case of Kotwal Koireng
  • The Case of Thangal Major
  • The Incident of the Burmese Messengers
  • The Incident of the Stolen Mail

Correct Answer: The Incident of the Stolen Mail

Correct Answer Explanation: The text mentions that the mail bag between Imphal and Langthabal was robbed in 1890, highlighting the growing sense of lawlessness in the region and the challenges of maintaining security and order.

What was the name of the event that marked a significant change in the political landscape of the region, with the British annexing Upper Burma?

  • The Kongal Outrage
  • The Siege of Kohima
  • The Capture of Kendat
  • The Burmese War of 1885-86

Correct Answer: The Burmese War of 1885-86

Correct Answer Explanation: The Burmese war of 1885-86 was a significant turning point in the political landscape of the region, with the British annexation of Upper Burma further solidifying their control over Northeast India.

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Jessmyn Solana

Jessmyn Solana is the Digital Marketing Manager of Interact, a place for creating beautiful and engaging quizzes that generate email leads. She is a marketing enthusiast and storyteller. Outside of Interact Jessmyn loves exploring new places, eating all the local foods, and spending time with her favorite people (especially her dog).

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