NCERT Class 8 English Honeydew: Chapter 3 — Glimpses of the Past
This chapter, 'The Martyrs,' from the NCERT Class 8 English Honeydew textbook, introduces the historical context leading to the First War of Independence in 1857. It uses pictorial glimpses and speech bubbles to illustrate the period between 1757 and 1857. The text highlights the British East India Company's expansion through superior weaponry and the short-sightedness of Indian princes, whose rivalries facilitated the Company's conquests. It contrasts the bravery of rulers like Tipu of Mysore with the complacency of others. The chapter also touches upon the varied reactions of Indians to foreign rule, including resentment over dethroned kings and a sense of subjugation, while acknowledging the perceived peace and end of internal conflicts. This chapter serves as a foundational understanding for students studying India's struggle for independence.
Quick info
| Board | CBSE / NCERT |
|---|---|
| Class | Class 8 |
| Subject | English |
| Book | Honeydew |
| Chapter | Chapter 3 — Glimpses of the Past |
| Language | English |
| PDF type | NCERT Textbook |
| Session | CBSE 2026 |
| Reading time | 2 minutes |
| Word count | 252 |
Learning outcomes
- Understand the historical context of the First War of Independence (1857).
- Identify the role of the British East India Company in expanding its power in India.
- Recognize the impact of Indian rulers' rivalries on the country's political landscape.
- Analyze the different reactions of Indians to foreign rule.
- Appreciate the sacrifices of historical figures who fought against oppression.
Vocabulary
| Word | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Martyrs | People who are killed because of their religious or political beliefs. |
| Sacrifices | Giving up something valuable for the sake of other people or a cause. |
| Conquests | The subjugation of one country or people to another, typically by force. |
| Superior | Higher in rank, status, or quality. |
| Short-sighted | Lacking foresight; not thinking about the future consequences of an action. |
| Upstart | A person or organization that has suddenly become important or powerful and has gained importance or power in a way that is considered unfair. |
| Subdue | Overpower or bring under control by force. |
| Dethroned | Removed from a throne. |
| Destiny | The events that will necessarily happen to a particular person or thing in the future. |
| Slaves | A person who is the legal property of another and is forced to obey them. |
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Practice questions
- What historical event does the chapter prepare the reader to understand? Answer: The chapter prepares the reader to understand the First War of Independence in 1857.
- Which company was extending its power in 18th century India? Answer: The British East India Company was extending its power.
- Why were Indian princes unable to resist the East India Company effectively? Answer: Indian princes were short-sighted and engaged in rivalries, which helped the East India Company subdue them one by one.
- Name one ruler mentioned who fought bravely against the British. Answer: Tipu of Mysore is mentioned as a brave ruler who fought the British till he died.
- What were some of the negative impacts of foreign rule mentioned by the people? Answer: People felt that foreigners had killed or dethroned their kings and that they had become slaves of foreigners.
Frequently asked questions
What is the time period covered in the 'Before you read' section?
The time period covered is from 1757 to 1857.
What event does this period lead up to?
This period leads up to the event known as the First War of Independence in 1857.
How did the British East India Company extend its power?
The British East India Company extended its power using its superior weapons and by exploiting the rivalries among Indian princes.
Who was Tipu of Mysore?
Tipu of Mysore was a brave and far-seeing ruler who fought against the British until his death.
What were some of the negative consequences of the Company's rule mentioned?
The negative consequences included the killing or dethroning of Indian kings and the people becoming slaves of foreigners.
What positive aspect of the Company's rule is mentioned by one character?
One character mentions that there is peace in the country now, with no more wars and no looting by thugs.
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NCERT Class 8 English — Honeydew — Chapter 3 — Glimpses of the Past. Verified by NCERT Help Editorial Team. Reviewed on 29 Jul 2026. Last updated 10 Aug 2026.