Final answer:
The 'period of ill fortune' mentioned in Nehru's 'Tryst with Destiny' refers to the British colonial period in India, which included extensive suffering and events like the Bengal Famine of 1943.
Step-by-step explanation:
In Jawaharlal Nehru's speech 'Tryst with Destiny,' the 'period of ill fortune' he refers to is b) The British colonial period. This era is characterized by British colonial rule over India and includes the events leading up to India's independence. The mention of ill fortune is likely in reference to the extensive challenges faced by the Indian population during the colonial period.
Such as the devastating Bengal Famine of 1943, the suppression of Indian leaders during World War II, and overall exploitative colonial policies that contributed to widespread suffering and the desire for independence. Nehru's speech marked the eve of India's independence and aimed to inspire a nation ready to govern itself and shape its own destiny after years of colonial subjugation.