Q. An Indian ruler of the 18th century who planted “the Tree of liberty” at his capital, enrolled himself as a member of the Jacobin club of France and loved himself to be called ‘Citizen’, was
(a) Mir Jafar
(b) Tipu Sultan
(c) Haider Ali
(d) Banda Bahadur
Ans: (b) Tipu Sultan
Explanation: The correct answer is (b) Tipu Sultan.
Tipu Sultan, also known as the Tiger of Mysore, was an Indian ruler of the 18th century who planted “the Tree of liberty” at his capital, enrolled himself as a member of the Jacobin club of France, and embraced the title of “Citizen.” Tipu Sultan was the son of Haider Ali and succeeded him as the ruler of the Kingdom of Mysore.
Tipu Sultan was known for his strong resistance against the British East India Company’s expansionist policies and fought multiple wars against them. He adopted several progressive measures and reforms in his kingdom, including the promotion of indigenous industries, the modernization of the military, and the encouragement of trade and agriculture.
His adoption of symbols and titles associated with the French Revolution, such as planting the “Tree of liberty” and embracing the title of “Citizen,” reflected his admiration for the ideals of liberty, equality, and fraternity propagated by the French Revolution.
However, it is important to note that while Tipu Sultan is often portrayed as a progressive ruler, his reign was also marked by controversies, including his treatment of certain religious and ethnic communities. His policies and actions continue to be a subject of debate among historians.
