International Journal of History

Author(s): Neha Kumari

Abstract: This paper explores the profound impact of Christian missionaries on education and social reform in Bihar during the colonial period. The missionaries, driven by religious motives, also played a pivotal role in introducing Western-style education, healthcare services, and social reforms that shaped the socio-cultural landscape of the region. The primary objective of the study is to examine how missionaries contributed to education by establishing schools that provided access to marginalized communities, including women, Dalits, and tribal groups. This paper further investigates their influence on social issues, such as the promotion of women's education, the fight against child marriage, caste-based discrimination, and their advocacy for health and welfare services. Through a comprehensive review of historical records and primary sources, the study details the educational curricula introduced by missionaries, focusing on the teaching of English, mathematics, and vocational skills that fostered self-reliance among marginalized groups. Furthermore, the study highlights their healthcare initiatives, including the establishment of hospitals, orphanages, and relief centers. The results indicate that, while missionary activities were met with resistance from conservative groups, their efforts led to the establishment of a new educated middle class and contributed significantly to social mobility. In conclusion, the paper asserts that Christian missionaries played a crucial role in transforming Bihar's educational and social systems, laying the groundwork for future reform movements and modern education in the region.

Pages: 05-09 | Views: 426 | Downloads: 240

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