Question 16: Describe a historical event you find significant. You should say:
– What was the event, and when did it occur?
– What were the key details and consequences?
– Why does this event interest you?
– How has it shaped the world today?
Model answer 2 by Lifestyle Training Centre
One historical event that I find truly significant is the abolishment of Sati in India, which occurred in the year 1829. This event marked the official end of the abhorrent practice where widows were forced or coerced to sacrifice themselves on their husband’s funeral pyres.
The event took place during British colonial rule, under the leadership of Lord William Bentinck, the Governor-General of India. The Bengal Sati Regulation Act of 1829 made the practice illegal and punishable by law. A key figure in this reform was Raja Ram Mohan Roy, a prominent social reformer, who campaigned tirelessly against Sati. He argued that it was a barbaric practice with no real basis in religious texts, effectively debunking the myths used to justify it.
The consequences of this event were immense. Although there was strong opposition from conservative groups who believed in maintaining traditional customs, the abolition of Sati paved the way for a greater focus on women’s rights and the eradication of harmful social practices. It also set a precedent for how meaningful reform could be achieved through a combination of legislation and awareness.
This event interests me because it represents the power of activism and reform in challenging entrenched social evils. Raja Ram Mohan Roy’s courage and persistence are especially inspiring to me because they show how one person’s efforts can create a ripple effect in society. His steadfast determination in the face of formidable resistance is a lesson in resilience and hope.
The abolishment of Sati has shaped the world today by laying the groundwork for legal reforms aimed at protecting women’s rights. It acted as a catalyst for other reforms in India, such as the push for widow remarriage and women’s education. The event remains a symbol of progress, reminding us of the importance of standing up against injustice and fighting for equality.
In conclusion, the abolishment of Sati was not just a historical milestone but also a powerful reminder of how societal change can be achieved through determination, advocacy, and reform.
List of vocabulary used:
- Abolishment – The formal ending or elimination of a practice or system.
- Sati – An obsolete practice where widows were compelled to self-immolate on their husband’s funeral pyre.
- Coerced – Forced into an action through pressure or threats.
- Funeral pyres – Piles of wood used for the cremation of a body during a funeral.
- Colonial rule – Governance by a foreign power over another country or region.
- Regulation Act – A law or directive made by an authority.
- Social reformer – An individual advocating for change to improve society.
- Barbaric – Cruel, primitive, or uncivilised.
- Entrenched – Deeply rooted or firmly established.
- Legislation – Laws enacted by a governing body.
- Awareness – Knowledge or understanding of a particular issue or topic.
- Conservative groups – People or organisations resistant to change, especially regarding traditions.
- Catalyst – Something that triggers significant change or action.
- Advocacy – Public support for a cause or policy.
- Precedent – An earlier event or action serving as an example for future situations.
- Equality – The state of being equal, especially in rights and opportunities.
- Milestone – A significant point in development or history.
- Persistence – The quality of continuing firmly despite difficulties.
- Ripple effect – The continuing and spreading results of an event or action.
- Progress – Movement towards improvement or a more advanced state.
Phrases and Idioms:
- Marked the official end – Signified the formal conclusion of a practice or system.
- Punishable by law – Subject to legal consequences or penalties.
- Tirelessly campaigned – Worked relentlessly to advocate for change.
- Harmful social practices – Traditions or customs causing negative effects on individuals or society.
- Greater focus on women’s rights – Increased attention towards ensuring equal rights and opportunities for women.
- Power of activism and reform – The influence of collective efforts to bring about change.
- Ripple effect in society – A small action leading to widespread impacts.
- Standing up against injustice – Taking a stand to oppose unfair or cruel practices.
- Catalyst for other reforms – A change that inspired or led to additional improvements.
- A symbol of progress – A representation of societal advancement.
IELTS Speaking Task Topics
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Names
Learn about the importance of names and their cultural significance.
Study / Job
Discuss various aspects of studying and working in different fields.
Hometown
Explore the charm of your hometown and its unique features.
Accommodation
Understand various types of accommodation and living situations.
Weather
Learn about how weather influences daily life and activities.
Time
Discuss the concept of time, its importance, and time management.
Television
Talk about the role of television in modern entertainment.
Museum
Discuss the cultural importance of museums and historical exhibits.
Holidays
Explore the significance of holidays and different celebrations.
Films
Learn about the impact of films on culture and society.
Leisure Time
Discuss how leisure activities impact personal well-being.
Sport
Talk about the role of sports in health, entertainment, and culture.
Vegetables and Fruits
Discuss the health benefits and importance of fresh produce.
Maths
Explore the role of mathematics in various aspects of life.
Sky
Discuss the beauty and scientific significance of the sky.
Clothes and Fashion
Explore how clothing reflects culture and personal expression.
Weekend
Discuss the importance of weekends and ways people relax.
Reading
Learn about the importance of reading and various reading habits.
Sleep
Explore how sleep impacts physical and mental well-being.
Trees and Plants
Discuss the environmental and health benefits of plants.
Newspaper
Discuss the evolving role of newspapers in the digital age.
Text Messages
Explore the role of text messaging in modern communication.
Memorizing
Learn techniques for improving memory and memorization.
Traveling
Discuss the importance and impact of traveling in modern society.
Letters or Emails
Explore the differences and significance of letters vs. emails.
Swimming
Discuss the benefits of swimming for health and fitness.
Snacks
Explore the role of snacks in daily nutrition and lifestyle.
Photography
Discuss photography’s cultural and artistic significance.
Help
Talk about the importance of offering and receiving help.
History
Discuss historical events and their impact on modern society.
Handwriting
Explore the significance of handwriting in education and culture.
Music
Learn about the influence of music on emotions and society.
Colours
Discuss how colours affect perception and mood.
Teachers
Explore the role of teachers in shaping students’ futures.
Being Alone
Talk about the experience and benefits of spending time alone.
Teamwork
Learn the importance of teamwork in professional and social contexts.
Countryside
Explore the charm and benefits of living in the countryside.
Social Media
Discuss the impact of social media on society and relationships.
Friends
Explore the importance of friendships in life.
Artificial Intelligence (AI)
Talk about the future of AI and its role in society.
Climate Change
Discuss the causes and consequences of climate change.
Sustainable Transportation
Explore ways to make transportation more environmentally friendly.
Space Exploration
Learn about the latest advancements in space exploration.
Shopping
Explore how shopping influences culture and the economy.
Modern Technology
Discuss how modern technology is reshaping society.
Technology
Learn about the role of technology in everyday life.
Sustainable Living
Explore ways to live sustainably for the future of the planet.
Globalisation
Learn about the effects of globalisation on society and economies.
Global Warming
Discuss the causes, effects, and solutions to global warming.
Gender Equality
Explore the importance of gender equality in modern society.
Health and Fitness
Discuss the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
Renewable Energy
Learn about renewable energy sources and their impact on the environment.
Cultural Traditions in Kerala
Explore the unique cultural traditions of Kerala, your hometown.
Cultural Traditions in Your Country
Learn about the cultural traditions in your country.
Education System
Discuss the education system in your country and its effectiveness.
Traditional Cuisine
Explore the significance of traditional cuisines in your culture.
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