10 Must-Know MCQs on the Jallianwala Bagh Massacre (13th April 1919) with Answers

Get into the historic significance of the Jallianwala Bagh Massacre with our carefully crafted set of 10 multiple-choice questions (MCQs) designed to test your knowledge and deepen your understanding of this pivotal event in India’s freedom struggle. Observed on 13th April 1919, the massacre at Jallianwala Bagh in Amritsar remains a somber reminder of British colonial oppression and the resilience of the Indian spirit. Each question is accompanied by detailed answers and explanations, making this an ideal resource for students, educators, and history enthusiasts looking to explore this tragic yet transformative moment. Whether you're preparing for exams or simply curious about India’s past, these MCQs offer an engaging way to learn about the causes, consequences, and legacy of the Jallianwala Bagh Massacre.

 

1. On which date did the Jallianwala Bagh Massacre take place?
a) 13th April 1918
b) 13th April 1919
c) 15th August 1919
d) 26th January 1920

Answer: b) 13th April 1919
Overview: The Jallianwala Bagh Massacre occurred on 13th April 1919 in Amritsar, Punjab, when British troops fired on a peaceful gathering, marking a turning point in India’s struggle for independence. This date is remembered annually to honor the victims.

2. Who ordered the firing on the crowd during the Jallianwala Bagh Massacre?
a) Lord Chelmsford
b) General Reginald Dyer
c) Lord Curzon
d) Colonel Saunders

Answer: b) General Reginald Dyer
Overview: General Reginald Dyer, a British officer, ordered the troops to open fire on unarmed civilians gathered at Jallianwala Bagh. His actions were later condemned, and he was removed from duty, though he faced no criminal charges.

3. Why were people gathered at Jallianwala Bagh on 13th April 1919?
a) To celebrate a festival
b) To protest against the Rowlatt Act
c) To attend a political conference
d) To welcome British officials

Answer: b) To protest against the Rowlatt Act
Overview: The crowd had gathered to peacefully protest the Rowlatt Act, which allowed the British government to arrest people without trial. The gathering coincided with the Baisakhi festival, drawing a large number of people, including families.

4. Approximately how many people were killed in the Jallianwala Bagh Massacre?
a) 50-100
b) 200-300
c) 379-1000+
d) 1500-2000

Answer: c) 379-1000+
Overview: Official British records reported 379 deaths, but Indian estimates suggest over 1,000 people were killed, with thousands injured. The exact number remains disputed due to the chaotic aftermath and lack of proper documentation.

5. What was the immediate consequence of the Jallianwala Bagh Massacre in India?
a) End of British rule
b) Nationwide protests and rise in nationalism
c) Signing of the Rowlatt Act
d) Formation of the Indian National Army

Answer: b) Nationwide protests and rise in nationalism
Overview: The massacre fueled outrage across India, intensifying the freedom struggle. It united Indians against British rule, boosting the non-cooperation movement led by Mahatma Gandhi and other leaders.

6. Which act was passed by the British to suppress political activities before the massacre?
a) Government of India Act
b) Rowlatt Act
c) Indian Councils Act
d) Pitt’s India Act

Answer: b) Rowlatt Act
Overview: The Rowlatt Act, passed in 1919, allowed the British to detain political activists without trial. It was deeply unpopular and led to widespread protests, including the gathering at Jallianwala Bagh.

7. What was the name of the garden where the massacre took place?
a) Lodi Gardens
b) Jallianwala Bagh
c) Mughal Gardens
d) Shalimar Bagh

Answer: b) Jallianwala Bagh
Overview: Jallianwala Bagh is a public garden in Amritsar, Punjab, enclosed by walls with limited exits. Its confined layout trapped the crowd, making it impossible for many to escape the gunfire.

8. Who led the inquiry committee to investigate the Jallianwala Bagh Massacre?
a) Hunter Commission
b) Simon Commission
c) Cripps Mission
d) Morley-Minto Committee

Answer: a) Hunter Commission
Overview: The British government set up the Hunter Commission to investigate the massacre. While it criticized Dyer’s actions, it did not impose harsh penalties, leading to further distrust among Indians.

9. Which Indian leader called the Jallianwala Bagh Massacre a “monstrous crime”?
a) Jawaharlal Nehru
b) Mahatma Gandhi
c) Subhas Chandra Bose
d) Bal Gangadhar Tilak

Answer: b) Mahatma Gandhi
Overview: Mahatma Gandhi condemned the massacre as a “monstrous crime” and launched the Non-Cooperation Movement in response, urging Indians to boycott British goods and institutions to demand self-rule.

10. What is the significance of observing 13th April as Jallianwala Bagh Massacre Day?
a) To celebrate India’s independence
b) To honor the victims and inspire patriotism
c) To mark the signing of a peace treaty
d) To commemorate a British victory

Answer: b) To honor the victims and inspire patriotism
Overview: Observing 13th April as Jallianwala Bagh Massacre Day serves to remember the innocent lives lost and honor their sacrifice. It also reinforces the spirit of unity and patriotism in India’s fight for freedom.