Jharkhand as a separate state came into existence on 15th November 2000. The struggle for a separate state is rooted in the movements and uprising of the tribals against the numerous invasions carried out in the region. The tribals fought the Mughals, the Marathas, the British, and many other outsiders who attempted to conquer the region for its resources and beauty, among other reasons. Historical records and archaeological pieces of evidence found in the state indicate the presence of humans in the region during the Paleolithic age (2,00,000BC-20,000BC).
Moreover, the ancient Indian texts such as Vedic literature have also described the region inhabited by Asurs, who were highly skilled in iron and copper smelting. The texts mention that the Asurs traded these metal articles with the Aryans, which they later exported to the civilizations of Athens and Rome.
In the historical context, Jharkhand also has been involved in spirituality and religious movements as it was visited by Gautama Buddha and the 23rd Tirthankara of the Jains, Parshvanath. Some scholars argue that Jharkhand was the karma bhumi of Gautama Buddha.
The invasions of the Mughals and the British led to numerous revolts and uprisings among the tribals, who were angered by the acts of atrocities put on them by these rulers and their systematic oppression of the tribals. The Birsa Movement, The Kol insurrection, the Chero revolt, the rebellion of the Bhumij, Hos, and Santhals as well as the First War of Independence were all reactions against the oppressive and exploitative rule over the tribals.
The tribal community of Jharkhand has given many freedom fighters to the country, who laid down their lives fighting the tyranny of the British rule. Most notable among these are Birsa Munda, Siddhu and Kanhu, Nilamber and Pitamber, Tilka Manjhi, Sheikh Bhikhari, and so on.
After the independence of the country in 1947, a need for a separate Jharkhand state was felt by the tribals. This led to another social movement that resulted in the formation of Jharkhand, from a part of Bihar. The history of Jharkhand has been dynamic and vivid from the ancient age, all the way to the modern era. In 21st century India, Jharkhand continues to play an important role in nation-building (with nearly 40% of the country’s mineral resources) and the ancient wisdom and learnings of the Adivasis.
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