SOLUTIONS
2022 BOARD EXAM
CBSE CLASS 12-HUMANITIES HISTORY Board Paper 2022 — Set 2
2022
HISTORY
CLASS 12-HUMANITIES
CBSE EXAMINATION PAPER-2022
HISTORY
(Solved)
General Instructions :
Read the following instructions carefully and follow them :
- This question paper contains 13 questions. All questions are compulsory.
- This question paper is divided into 3 sections.
- Section A – questions number 1 to 3 are case based questions
- Section B – questions number 4 to 8 are short answer
- Section C – questions number 9 to 13 are long answer
- There is no overall choice given in the question paper. However, an internal choice has been provided in few questions.
- Use of calculator is NOT allowed.
Section A
Question 1.
Read the source given below carefully and answer the questions that follow :
In praise of taswir Drawing the likeness of anything is called taswir. His Majesty from his earliest youth, has shown a great predilection for this art, and gives it every encouragement, as he looks upon it as a means both of study and amusement. A very large number of painters have been set to work. Each week, several supervisors and clerks of the imperial workshop submit before the emperor the work done by each artist, and His Majesty gives a reward and increases the monthly salaries of the artists according to the excellence displayed. ... Most excellent painters are now to be found, and masterpieces, worthy of a Bihzad, may be placed at the side of the wonderful works of the European painters who have attained worldwide fame. The minuteness in detail, the general finish and the boldness of execution now observed in pictures are incomparable; even inanimate objects look as if they have life. More than a hundred painters have become famous masters of the art. This is especially true of the Hindu artists. Their pictures surpass our conception of things. Few, indeed, in the whole world are found equal to them.
(1) How did Mughal paintings exhibit decorative elements?
[1 Marks]
Answer: Mughal paintings are renowned for their intricate decorative elements which reflect a confluence of various artistic influences. The use of vibrant colors and elaborate designs in costume showcased influences from Chinese and Persian art, made accessible through the Mongolian connections. These paintings often depict lush backgrounds and rich textures that enhance the beauty of the figures represented. The attention to detail and the ornamentation observed in Mughal art illustrated a meticulous approach to aesthetics, where elements like patterned fabrics and scrolling floral designs add depth and vibrancy to the overall composition, ultimately contributing to the art’s grandeur and appeal. This blend of cultural influences created a unique and sophisticated style that is distinctive of Mughal art.
Key Points: Influence of Chinese and Persian art - Use of vibrant colors and elaborate designs - Attention to detail and ornamentation - Patterns and floral designs enhancing aesthetics
(2) Why did Abul-Fazl credit Bihzad and the works of the Europeans?
[1 Marks]
Answer: Abul-Fazl credited Bihzad and the works of European painters due to their unparalleled artistry and mastery of detail, which raised the standard of painting and provided significant contributions to the art world. Bihzad, a renowned Persian painter, represented a high level of artistic excellence that inspired many artists, including those in the Mughal court. The mention of European painters highlights their global recognition and the exceptional techniques they employed, which introduced elements such as realism, anatomy, and a profound understanding of beauty. This cross-cultural appreciation of art elevates the status of both Bihzad and European masters, as they both contributed richly to the world of painting, blending styles and reflecting a shared commitment to artistic innovation. Therefore, Abul-Fazl's crediting of these artists signifies the rich artistic heritage that influenced the Mughal period and showcases the synthesis of different cultural aesthetics in the artistic expressions of that era.
Key Points: Bihzad as a symbol of artistic excellence - Influence of European techniques on realism - Cross-cultural appreciation of art - Contribution to the richness of Mughal artistic heritage
(3) How does this source reflect the personal inclination of the Emperor towards the paintings?
[2 Marks]
Answer: The source reflects the personal inclination of the Emperor towards paintings in several ways. Firstly, it highlights the Emperor's great enthusiasm for the art of taswir, which he has encouraged from his youth as a means of both study and amusement. Secondly, the text states that he rewards painters based on the quality of their work, which demonstrates his commitment to promoting artistic excellence. Moreover, the presence of numerous talented painters, particularly from Hindu backgrounds, signifies his appreciation for diversity and skill in the arts. The Emperor's direct involvement in assessing the artworks and providing financial incentives indicates a personal investment in the success and development of the art form. Additionally, the comparison of local masterpieces with renowned European works illustrates his desire to elevate the status of his empire’s art on a global scale, showcasing a deep personal connection to the cultural achievements within his realm.
Key Points: Emperor's encouragement of taswir-art; Personal rewards based on artistic excellence; Involvement of diverse painters especially Hindus; Direct assessment of artworks; Comparison with European masterpieces to elevate local art
Question 2.
Read the source given below carefully and answer the questions that follow :
Shah Mal Shah Mal lived in a large village in pargana Barout in Uttar Pradesh. He belonged to a clan of Jat cultivators whose kinship ties extended over chaurasee des (eighty-four villages). The lands in the region were irrigated and fertile, with rich dark loam soil. Many of the villagers were prosperous and saw the British land revenue system as oppressive: the revenue demand was high and its collection inflexible. Consequently cultivators were losing land to outsiders, to traders and moneylenders who were coming into the area. Shah Mal mobilised the headmen and cultivators of chaurasee des, moving at night from village to village, urging people to rebel against the British. As in many other places, the revolt against the British turned into general rebellion against all signs of oppression and injustice. Cultivators left their fields and plundered the houses of moneylenders and traders. Displaced proprietors took possession buildings, destroyed the bridge over the river, and dug up metalled roads partly to prevent government forces from coming into the area, and partly because bridges and roads were seen as symbols of British rule. They sent supplies to the sepoys who had mutinied in Delhi and stopped all official communication between British headquarters and Meerut. Locally acknowledged as the Raja, Shah Mal took over the bungalow of an English officer, turned it into a also set up an amazingly effective network of intelligence. For a period the people of the area felt that firangi raj was over, and their raj had come. Shah Mal was killed in battle in July 1857.
(1) Why did Shah Mal raise his voice against the Britishers?
[1 Marks]
Answer: Shah Mal raised his voice against the Britishers due to the oppressive land revenue system imposed by the British, which demanded high revenues and had inflexible collection methods. This burden was making it difficult for the cultivators, including those in his clan, to maintain their lands. As a result, many were losing their land to outsiders, traders, and moneylenders who were encroaching upon the area. Motivated by a strong sense of justice and kinship, Shah Mal mobilized the headmen and villagers of chaurasee des, urging them to rebel not only against the British but also against all forms of oppression and injustice. His revolt reflected the collective frustration and desperation of the local populace to reclaim their rights and fight against an unjust system that was ruining their lives and livelihoods.
Key Points: Oppressive British land revenue system-high revenue demand and inflexible collection-cultivators losing land to traders and moneylenders-mobilization of villagers against oppression-collective frustration and desperation-aim to reclaim rights
(2) How did Shah Mal support rebels of the Revolt of 1857?
[1 Marks]
Answer: Shah Mal played a crucial role in supporting the rebels during the Revolt of 1857 by mobilizing the villagers of pargana Barout in Uttar Pradesh. He took the initiative to unite cultivators, urging them to rise against the oppressive British land revenue system, which was causing widespread loss of land to moneylenders and traders. Shah Mal organized gatherings at night, fostering a spirit of rebellion among the villagers. His efforts led to a collective uprising where cultivators not only attacked moneylenders but also engaged in acts to dismantle symbols of British authority, such as destroying bridges and roads, and plundering the houses of the wealthy. Additionally, he provided support to the sepoys mutinied in Delhi by sending them supplies and forming an effective intelligence network. Shah Mal’s actions inspired confidence among the locals, and for a brief period, they felt liberated from British rule under his leadership until his death in battle in July 1857.
Key Points: Mobilized villagers of pargana Barout-Urged rebellion against British land revenue system-Organized night gatherings-Targeted moneylenders and symbols of British authority-Supported mutinied sepoys with supplies-Established effective network of intelligence
(3) How did Shah Mal show his network of intelligence?
[2 Marks]
Answer: Shah Mal demonstrated his effective network of intelligence in several ways during the revolt against British rule in 1857. Firstly, he mobilised the headmen and cultivators of the chaurasee des, moving at night from village to village. This nocturnal movement allowed him to communicate and coordinate plans for rebellion without drawing attention from the British authorities. Secondly, he set up an efficient system to gather and disseminate information, which included sending supplies to the sepoys who had mutinied in Delhi. This not only strengthened the rebels' position but also built morale among the locals who felt empowered to resist oppression. Additionally, by taking over the bungalow of an English officer and turning it into a base for operations, Shah Mal established a central hub for leadership and intelligence, enabling effective planning and execution of their rebellion. His ability to connect with various cultivators and other local leaders underlined the strength and cohesion of his network, which contributed significantly to the initial success of the uprising in the region.
Key Points: Mobilisation of headmen and cultivators; Night movement for communication; Established a base in English officer's bungalow; Efficient supply network to sepoys; Coordination with local leaders.
Question 3.
On the given poltical outline map of India , located and label any one of the following with appropriate symbol.
(1) On the same political outline map of India, a place related to the capital city of Mughal Empire is marked as A . Identify it and write its name on the line drawn near it.
Answer: The place marked as A on the political outline map of India is Agra, which was the capital city of the Mughal Empire during the reign of several Mughal emperors, including Akbar. I will label it accordingly with an appropriate symbol.
Key Points: Mughal Empire capital-Agra-label on map-symbol
(2) The place where Gandhiji withdrew Non-Cooperation Movement.
Answer: Gandhiji withdrew the Non-Cooperation Movement in 1922 in the town of Bardoli, Gujarat. This decision was made after the violent incident at Chauri Chaura. It was deemed necessary to halt the movement to avoid further violence and maintain the principle of non-violence that was central to Gandhiji's ideology. Bardoli is significant as it was also one of the territories where Gandhiji had earlier led a successful campaign for farmers in 1918, which contributes to its historical importance in the Indian independence movement.
Key Points: Bardoli-1922-Gandhiji's non-violence withdrawal-Chauri Chaura impact-significance in Indian independence movement
(3) The place where Gandhiji started Satyagraha for the planters of Gujarat.
Answer: The place where Gandhiji started Satyagraha for the planters of Gujarat is Champaran. On the political outline map of India, Champaran is located in the state of Bihar. It was in 1917 that Gandhiji led the Satyagraha movement in response to the grievances of the indigo farmers who were being exploited by British planters. This movement marked the first significant involvement of Gandhiji in Indian nationalism and showcased his non-violent method of protest. The symbol used to mark Champaran on the map could be a black dot or a small flag, representing its historical importance as a site of agitation for the rights of farmers.
Key Points: Champaran- location in Bihar- 1917 Satyagraha for indigo planters- significance of non-violent protest- symbol for marking Champaran
(4) Name any one capital city of the Mughal Empire.
Answer: One capital city of the Mughal Empire is Agra. Agra was a significant political and cultural centre during the Mughal era, notably known for the construction of the Taj Mahal under Emperor Shah Jahan. It served as the capital at various times and was an important hub of Mughal administration.
Key Points: Agra - Capital city of the Mughal Empire - Built the Taj Mahal - Significant political and cultural centre
(5) Mention any one place related to the centre of the Revolt of 1857.
Answer: One significant place related to the centre of the Revolt of 1857 is Awadh. Located in present-day Uttar Pradesh, Awadh played a crucial role as a hub of resistance against British rule during the revolt. The people of Awadh united in their struggle, showcasing a blend of traditional loyalties, emotions, and a collective desire for independence from the oppressive colonial regime. As a symbol of this historic event, I label Awadh on the political map with a star symbol, indicating its importance in India's fight for freedom.
Key Points: Awadh, symbol of resistance, First War of Independence, collective struggle against British rule
(6) Name the State where the Jallianwala Bagh event took place.
Answer: The Jallianwala Bagh event took place in the State of Punjab in India. It is a significant historical site located in the city of Amritsar, where the tragic massacre occurred on April 13, 1919, during a peaceful gathering of Indians protesting against repressive laws imposed by the British colonial government.
Key Points: Location: Punjab - City: Amritsar - Event: Jallianwala Bagh massacre - Date: April 13, 1919
Section B
Question 4.
[3 Marks]
Mention any three sources to know about the revolt of 1857 ?
Answer: To understand the revolt of 1857, one can refer to several key sources. First, historical documents and records from British officials provide insights into the colonial perspective of the events. These documents often reflect the challenges the British faced while suppressing the rebellion. Second, literature and art from that era, including poems and paintings, depict the emotions and heroic narratives surrounding the revolt, showcasing how leaders were glorified. Finally, oral histories and folklore passed down through generations enrich our understanding of the local perceptions and the sentiments of the rebels, highlighting resistance against perceived colonial oppression.
Question 5.
[3 Marks]
Analyse the policies adopted by the British towards Paharias of Rajmahal Hills during the eighteenth century.
Answer: During the eighteenth century, the British policies towards the Paharias of the Rajmahal Hills varied significantly. Initially, the British adopted a violent policy of extermination, actively hunting down the Paharias. This approach was primarily aimed at subduing them. However, by the 1780s, a shift in strategy occurred when Augustus Cleveland proposed a policy of pacification. Under this new policy, Paharia chiefs were given annual allowances, which made them responsible for maintaining order within their communities. This included tasks such as clearing forests and cultivating land. The British aimed to integrate Paharias into agrarian society, as evidenced by the increasing presence of Santhal settlers who forced the Paharias deeper into the hills. Thus, British policies transitioned from extermination to pacification, ultimately altering the social dynamics of the Rajmahal Hills.
Question 6.
[3 Marks]
Examine the role of Francis Buchanan as an extraordinary observer of British East India Company.
Answer: Francis Buchanan was an extraordinary observer for the British East India Company, tasked with meticulously documenting India's landscapes and resources. As an employee of the Company, he worked under specific directives that required him to record economic and geographical information crucial for the Company's expansion. His expeditions were not merely for exploration; they served commercial purposes to identify exploitable resources. Operating with a large entourage of surveyors and draughtsmen, his detailed reports significantly contributed to the British Parliament's understanding of India. Buchanan's observations encompassed geological, botanical, and social aspects, effectively portraying India's diversity while serving the interests of the Company.
Question 7.
[3 Marks]
" The constituent assembly expressed the aspiration of the social reforms of the 19th century." Explain the statement.
Answer: The Constituent Assembly of India was deeply influenced by the social reforms of the 19th century, which aimed to address various social injustices and establish a sense of equality and justice. Members of the Assembly, drawn largely from diverse backgrounds, voiced aspirations for a democratic and inclusive society. Key reformers like Raja Ram Mohan Roy had championed social changes such as women's rights and the abolition of untouchability. This spirit of reform was reflected in the Constitution, which emphasized fundamental rights, equality before the law, and protection against discrimination. Thus, the Assembly embodied the collective aspirations for a modern nation, rooted in the principles of democracy and social equity.
Question 8.
[3 Marks]
How did the role of Lal-Bal-Pal of Congress convey the All-India character of their struggle ?
Answer: The trio of Lal-Bal-Pal, consisting of Lala Lajpat Rai, Bal Gangadhar Tilak, and Bipin Chandra Pal, played a crucial role in shaping the All-India character of the Congress struggle. Hailing from diverse regions—Punjab, Maharashtra, and Bengal—they exemplified the unification of different cultural and regional identities within the Indian nationalist movement. Their militant stance against colonial rule resonated with Indians across the subcontinent, inspiring a collective response. This regional representation was vital in countering the divides posed by communal parties and princely states. By mobilizing support from various segments of society, they reinforced the Congress's image as a truly national organization, fostering a spirit of unity among different communities against colonialism.
Section C
Question 9.
Analyse the different arguments made in favour of the strong Centre in the Constituent Assembly of India.
[6 Marks]
Answer: The discourse surrounding the strong Centre in the Constituent Assembly of India was shaped by concerns of national unity, security, and effective governance. Prominent leaders like Dr. B.R. Ambedkar and Jawaharlal Nehru advocated for a robust central authority, stressing that a strong Centre was essential to prevent divisive forces and communal violence in a newly partitioned nation. Ambedkar specifically emphasized the need for a 'strong and united Centre' to address emerging challenges and maintain stability. Nehru echoed this sentiment, arguing that a weak Centre would exacerbate the country's vulnerabilities, particularly post-partition. The members referenced historical precedents, highlighting that divided powers could lead to chaos, especially against the backdrop of riots and unrest. Gopalaswami Ayyangar further reinforced this view by stating that only a strong Centre could effectively allocate resources for national development and the well-being of citizens. The belief was that a powerful Centre would foster economic planning and coordination among states, countering the obsession for decentralized power which could lead to fragmentation. Consequently, balancing central strength with state rights was a critical debate that reflected the tensions in ensuring a unified Indian republic.
Question 10.
[6 Marks]
"Mughals had diplomatic relationships and conflict with their neighbouring poltical powers " Explain the statement
Answer: The Mughal Empire, during the 16th and 17th centuries, established a complex web of diplomatic relations and conflicts with neighboring political powers such as the Safavid Empire in Iran, the Ottoman Empire, and regional Indian states. Diplomacy often involved strategic marriages, trade agreements, and military alliances. For instance, Akbar's marriage to a Rajput princess helped to pacify and integrate Rajputana into the Mughal Empire. However, conflicts also arose, as seen in the battles with the Rajputs and the Deccan kingdoms, where military campaigns were necessary to assert Mughal dominance. These interactions were crucial in shaping contemporary power dynamics, leading to both territorial expansion and the establishment of a rich cultural synthesis through trade and cultural exchanges. Additionally, the clashes against external forces, like the Safavids, reflected the Mughal interest in regional dominance. Hence, while the Mughals pursued peaceful diplomacy, they were equally prepared for military engagements to safeguard their empire and interests, demonstrating a dual strategy of coexistence and conflict in a politically diverse landscape.
Question 11.
[6 Marks]
" The non-coopration movement was one of the Gandhiji's first organized acts of large scale Satyagraha for swaraj". Explain the statement with suitable example.
Answer: The Non-Cooperation Movement of 1920 marked a pivotal moment in India's struggle for independence, spearheaded by Mahatma Gandhi. Following the Rowlatt Satyagraha, where Gandhi emerged as a national leader, he called for non-cooperation with the British authorities. This involved boycotting British schools, courts, and government offices, urging Indians to resign from their jobs and cease paying taxes. A significant example of this movement was the boycott of the Simon Commission in 1928, where Indians protested against continued British rule. The movement highlighted the power of collective nonviolent actions in demanding rights. It demonstrated that Indians could work together towards self-rule, fostering a sense of unity and national identity. Despite its suspension after the violent Chauri Chaura incident in 1922, the Non-Cooperation Movement laid the groundwork for subsequent struggles and established Gandhi principles of Satyagraha as a powerful tool for social and political change. The movement was crucial in transforming the fight for swaraj into a mass movement, involving millions and igniting a spirit of independence in the populace.
Question 12.
[6 Marks]
"Akbar framed the vision and applied his sulh-i-kul policy for maintaining peace and harmony in the society." Explain the statement.
Answer: The statement refers to Akbar's vision for his empire, characterized by tolerance and coexistence, embodied in his sulh-i-kul policy, which translates to 'universal peace'. This policy was not merely a political strategy; it was a holistic approach aimed at fostering social harmony across diverse religious and cultural communities within his realm. Akbar's Ain-i Akbari, crafted by his court historian Abu’l Fazl, elaborates on the administrative frameworks that supported this vision. The Ain meticulously details how the state engaged with various societal layers, ensuring the stability of agrarian relations, regulating zamindars, and addressing the needs of peasants. By positioning a strong ruling class and a central authority, Akbar avoided revolts and encouraged loyalty, thus creating a conducive environment for peace. His commitment to inclusivity, reflected in the principle of sulh-i-kul, transformed the Mughal Empire into a model of social harmony, enabling cultural exchange and mutual respect among its diverse population. Overall, Akbar's policies not only reinforced his authority but also laid the groundwork for a united empire that thrived on shared prosperity and cooperative governance.
Question 13.
[6 Marks]
"The Salt Satyagraha gained worldwide attention and started the nationwide Civil Disobedience Movement." Elucidate the statement with suitable examples.
Answer: The Salt Satyagraha, initiated by Mahatma Gandhi on March 12, 1930, was a pivotal moment in India's struggle for independence. Gandhi marched 240 miles from Sabarmati Ashram to Dandi to protest the British monopoly on salt, a staple in every Indian household. This act of civil disobedience garnered international attention, highlighting the oppressive nature of British colonial rule. The event was covered extensively by the global media, bringing Gandhi to the world's stage and showcasing the Indian struggle. The Satyagraha not only mobilized millions, including women, but also marked the beginning of the wider Civil Disobedience Movement, which encouraged Indians to boycott British goods and laws. The non-violent resistance tactics demonstrated the power of collective action against injustice and inspired similar movements worldwide, reinforcing Gandhi's philosophy of satyagraha (truth-force). Ultimately, this campaign revitalized the freedom struggle, uniting diverse sections of Indian society against colonial rule and setting the stage for future protests and movements that aimed at complete independence.
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