SOLUTIONS
2023 BOARD EXAM
CBSE CLASS 12-HUMANITIES HISTORY Board Paper 2023 — Set 1
2023
HISTORY
CLASS 12-HUMANITIES
CBSE EXAMINATION PAPER-2023
HISTORY
(Solved)
General Instructions :
Read the following instructions carefully and follow them :
- This question paper contains 35 questions. All questions are compulsory.
- This question paper is divided into 4 sections.
- Section A – questions number 1 to 6 are case based questions
- Section B – questions number 7 to 21 are multiple choice questions
- Section C – questions number 22 to 29 are short answer
- Section D – questions number 30 to 35 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 given source and answer the questions that follow :
Capturing elephants for the army
The Arthashastra lays down minute details of administrative and military organisation. This is what it says about how to capture elephants:
Guards of elephant forests, assisted by those who rear elephants, those who enchain the legs of elephants, those who guard the boundaries, those who live in forests, as well as by those who nurse elephants, shall, with the help of five or seven female elephants to help in tethering wild ones, trace the whereabouts of herds of elephants by following the course of urine and dung left by elephants.
According to Greek sources, the Mauryan ruler had a standing army of 600,000 foot-soldiers, 30,000 cavalry and 9,000 elephants. Some historians consider these accounts to be exaggerated.
(1) Who is the author of Arthashastra?
[1 Marks]
Answer: The author of the Arthashastra is Kautilya, also known as Chanakya. He was an ancient Indian philosopher, economist, and statesman, and is best known for his work on statecraft and military strategy as detailed in the Arthashastra.
Key Points: Kautilya-ancient Indian philosopher-economist-statesman-Arthashastra on statecraft and military strategy
(2) How were the elephants traced in the forests?
[1 Marks]
Answer: Elephants were traced in the forests through a systematic approach as outlined in the Arthashastra. Specifically, guards of the elephant forests, along with individuals who rear, nurse, and capture elephants, collaborated to locate herds. They utilized the course of urine and dung left by the elephants as a trail to follow. Furthermore, the use of five to seven female elephants assisted in tethering wild elephants, making the capturing process more effective.
Key Points: Utilization of guards and caretakers - Following urine and dung trails - Use of female elephants for tethering
(3) Why were the elephants captured by Mauryan rulers?
Answer: The Mauryan rulers captured elephants primarily for military purposes. Elephants served as an essential component of the army, providing not only strength and power in battles but also serving various logistical roles. The Arthashastra outlines detailed procedures for capturing these elephants, emphasizing the importance of trained personnel and strategies involving the use of female elephants to help manage and tether wild ones. According to historical accounts, the Mauryan army included a substantial number of elephants, highlighting their significance in warfare. Furthermore, capturing elephants was also beneficial in binding relations with local forest communities through the collection of peshkash, a form of tax or tribute that occasionally included elephants. Thus, elephants were key to establishing military dominance, aiding communication, and fostering socio-economic ties within the region.
Key Points: military strength, logistical support, importance in the Arthashastra, collection of peshkash, socio-economic ties
Question 2.
Read the given source and answer the questions that follow :
Cash or Kind ?
The Ain on land revenue collection :
Let him (the amil-guzar) not make it a practice of taking only in cash but also in kind. The latter is effected in several ways. First, kankut: in the Hindi language kan signifies grain, and kut, estimates..... if any doudt arise, the crops should be cut and estimated in three lots, the good, the middling, and the inferior, and the hesitation removed. Often, too, the land taken by appraisement, gives a sufficiently accurate return. Secondly, batai, also called bhaoli, the crops are reaped and stacked and divided by agreement in the presence of the parties. But in this case several intelligent inspectors are required; otherwise, the evil-minded and false are given to deception. Thirdly, khet-batai, when they divide the fields after they are sown. Fourthly, lang batai, after cutting the grain, they form it in heaps and divide it among themselves, and each takes his share home and turns it to profit.
(1) Explain the meaning of cash.
[1 Marks]
Answer: In the context of land revenue collection during the Mughal period, 'cash' refers to the monetary payment made by cultivators to settle their dues, as decreed by Akbar in his policies concerning revenue collection. Cash payments were preferred as they provided immediate funds to the state, enabling better management and allocation of resources. However, it is important to note that the revenue collector, known as the amil-guzar, was instructed not to rely solely on cash payments, as there were instances when paying in kind, or the actual produce, was more feasible for local cultivators. This dual approach ensured that the revenue system was adaptable to varying local conditions, allowing the state to maximize its claims while also accommodating the realities faced by farmers.
Key Points: Cash refers to monetary payment; Cash payments preferred for efficient resource management; Amil-guzar's responsibility to collect revenue; Payment in kind is also allowed; Adaptable system for local conditions
(2) Explain the role of Amil-Guzar.
[1 Marks]
Answer: The amil-guzar, or revenue collector, plays a crucial role in the land revenue collection as stipulated by the Ain. His primary function is to ensure that cultivators pay revenue either in cash or kind, according to local practices and conditions. The amil-guzar is tasked with estimating the land's produce through methods such as kankut, where crops are categorized into three lots based on quality, and batai, in which crops are divided in the presence of both parties. Moreover, khet-batai allows for the division of fields post-sowing, while lang batai involves dividing harvested grain into heaps. This multifaceted role not only seeks to maximize state revenue claims but also facilitates transparency and fairness in the collection process, preventing deception and ensuring accurate returns.
Key Points: 1. Facilitate revenue collection in cash and kind; 2. Employ various methods like kankut, batai, khet-batai, and lang batai; 3. Ensure fairness and transparency to prevent deception in revenue assessment
(3) Explain system of lang batai.
[2 Marks]
Answer: The system of 'lang batai' is a traditional method of dividing crops among sharecroppers after the harvest has been completed. In this process, once the grain is cut, it is gathered into heaps, and the participants involved in the cultivation jointly divide the harvest. Each cultivator takes their share home, which they can then sell or utilize for their own benefit. This system aims to ensure fair distribution of the produce, where each party receives a portion based on their contribution to the cultivation. It emphasizes collaboration among the farmers and transparency, as each participant is present during the division to prevent disputes. However, it also requires mutual trust and honest dealings among those involved.
Key Points: Definition of lang batai; Process of cutting and dividing the grain; Importance of fair distribution; Requirement of participants' presence to avoid disputes; Benefits for the cultivators.
Question 3.
Read the given source and answer the questions that follow :
"The British element is gone, but they have left the mischief behind"
Sardar Vallabh Bhai Patel said :
It is no use saying that we ask for separate electorates, because it is good for us. We have heard it long enough. We have heard it for years, and as a result of this agitation we are now a separate me one free country where there are separate electorates ? If so, I shall be prepared to accept it. But in this unfortunate country if this separate electorate is going to be persisted in, even after the division of the country, woe betide the country; it is not worth living in. Therefore, I say, it is not for my good alone, it is for your own good that I say it, forget the past. one day, we may be united...... the british element is gone but they have left the mischief behind. We do not want to perpetuate that mischief. (Hear, hear). When the British introduced this element they had not expected that they will have to go so soon. They wanted it for their easy administration. That is all right. But they have left the legacy behind. Are we to get out of it or not ?
(1) Why was separate electorate considered mischief?
[2 Marks]
Answer: Sardar Vallabh Bhai Patel considers separate electorates as 'mischief' because they create divisions among communities in the country, perpetuating the discrimination and separation that were introduced during British rule. He expresses concern that maintaining separate electorates will lead to further fragmentation of society, hindering the unity and integration necessary for a stable and free nation. Patel argues that while the British originally instituted separate electorates for their own administrative convenience, this practice has left a lasting and negative legacy on the newly independent nation. He emphasizes that separate electorates could keep certain groups, like the Depressed Classes, marginalized and stuck in a cycle of bondage and segregation, contradicting the ideals of freedom and equality that India strives for post-independence.
Key Points: separate electorates create divisions - perpetuation of past injustices - detrimental for national unity - legacy from British rule - continues marginalization of communities
(2) Why did Patel insist on unity?
[1 Marks]
Answer: Sardar Vallabh Bhai Patel insisted on unity because he believed that the continuation of separate electorates would lead to further divisions within the country, ultimately harming the national integrity and the interests of all communities. He argued that the British had introduced the concept of separate electorates to facilitate their own administration but had left behind a legacy of division and unrest. Patel warned that if separate electorates were persisted with, it would cause chaos and strife in the country, undermining the very essence of a united India. He emphasized that unity was not merely for the benefit of one community, but essential for the good of the entire nation, urging people to forget past grievances and look forward to the possibility of a unified future. In essence, he saw the push for separate electorates as a 'poison' that disrupted social harmony and urged the necessity of coming together for peace and progress.
Key Points: Danger of separate electorates for national integrity - Legacy of division left by British rule - Call for unity for the benefit of the entire nation
(3) Mention meaning of separate electorates.
[1 Marks]
Answer: Separate electorates refer to a system where different religious or social groups, such as Hindus and Muslims, vote in their own distinct constituencies to elect representatives. This system was introduced during British rule in India to create divisions and a sense of separateness among communities, ostensibly for better administration. However, leaders like Sardar Vallabh Bhai Patel argued that this practice perpetuates division and is detrimental to national unity, urging that it should be abolished to foster togetherness and a single identity among all citizens.
Key Points: Definition of separate electorates- Historical context of British rule- Arguments against the practice by Sardar Vallabh Bhai Patel- Impact on national unity
Question 4.
On the given political outline map of India (on page 23), locate and label the following with appropriate symbols :
Question 5.
On the given political outline map of India (on page 23), locate and label the following with appropriate symbols :
Question 6.
On the given political outline map of India (on page 23), locate and label the following with appropriate symbols :
(1) Mathura A place of Ashokan inscription.
Answer: On the political outline map of India, locate Mathura, which is known for its significant Ashokan inscription. Mark Mathura with a suitable symbol, such as a star or dot, to denote it as an important historical site.
Key Points: Locate Mathura; label with appropriate symbol; significance of Ashokan inscription in Mathura.
(2) Rajgir The capital of early State of Magadha.
Answer: Rajgir, the capital of early Magadha, can be located in the state of Bihar on the map. It is symbolized appropriately as a fortified settlement amidst hills.
Key Points: Rajgir - capital of early Magadha - located in Bihar - means 'house of the king' - fortified settlement
(3) Chandragiri Where Aravidu dynasty ruled.
Answer: Chandragiri is located near Tirupati in the state of Andhra Pradesh. It should be marked on the map with a symbol that indicates it was a significant center of the Aravidu dynasty.
Key Points: Location near Tirupati-Identify state as Andhra Pradesh-Symbol for Aravidu dynasty
(4) Delhi Capital of Mughal Empire.
Answer: Delhi, known as the Capital of the Mughal Empire, can be marked on the map with a star symbol or a dot. This city was significant for its large population and impressive ramparts as described by Ibn Battuta.
Key Points: Delhi- Capital of Mughal Empire- Mark with star symbol- Large population- Strong ramparts described by Ibn Battuta
(5) On the same map, two centres related to the Revolt of 1857 are marked as A and B. Identify them and write their names on the lines drawn near them.
Answer: The two centres related to the Revolt of 1857 marked as A and B on the map are 'Delhi' and 'Kanpur' respectively. These locations were significant in the uprisings against British rule, with Delhi being the center of the revolt and Kanpur witnessing significant battles.
Key Points: Delhi-Kanpur-importance of locations in the revolt
(6) Which was the capital town of State of Magadha ?
Answer: The capital town of the State of Magadha was Rajagaha, which is present-day Rajgir in Bihar.
Key Points: Rajagaha was the initial capital - It means 'house of the king' - Later capital shifted to Pataliputra
(7) Name one place where Ashokan inscription is found.
Answer: One place where Ashokan inscription is found is Sanchi in Madhya Pradesh.
Key Points: Sanchi-Location-Madhya Pradesh
(8) Name the capital of Mughal Empire in Uttar Pradesh.
Answer: The capital of the Mughal Empire in Uttar Pradesh was Agra.
Key Points: Agra-capital of Mughal Empire-Uttar Pradesh
(9) Mention any two centres of Revolt of 1857.
Answer: Two major centres of the Revolt of 1857 are Awadh (Oudh) and Delhi. Awadh was a significant hub of resistance against British rule, while Delhi served as a crucial location for the uprising and the seat of power during the revolt.
Key Points: Awadh - Major centre of resistance; Delhi - Seat of power during the revolt
(10) Name the place where Sangam dynasty ruled.
Answer: The Sangam dynasty ruled primarily in the region of Tamil Nadu.
Key Points: Sangam dynasty - Tamil Nadu - significance of early Tamil texts
Section B
Question 7.
In which of the modern Indian states is Rakhigarhi, an ancient site of Harappan culture, located?
[1 Marks]
Explanation: Rakhigarhi is located in Hisar district of Haryana, making it the largest Harappan city known. The context specifies that Rakhigarhi is situated in Haryana, which confirms that the correct option is Haryana.
Question 8.
Which one of the following is not a structural feature of a Stupa?
[1 Marks]
Explanation: The correct answer is 'Garbhagriha' as it is not typically a feature of a stupa. Stupas primarily consist of the anda (mound), harmika, chhatri (umbrella), and gateways. The Garbhagriha, which is a sanctum often found in temples, is not part of the stupa's structural form.
Question 9.
[1 Marks]
Who among the following ruler rebuilt the ' sudarshana lake'
Explanation: Rudradaman, the best-known Shaka ruler from the second century CE, is noted for having rebuilt the Sudarshana lake, as indicated in the relevant context.
Question 10.
In which state is the fifth-century Devgarh temple situated?
[1 Marks]
Explanation: The correct answer is Uttar Pradesh, as the relevant context specifically mentions 'A temple in Deogarh (Uttar Pradesh), c. fifth century CE', indicating that the Devgarh temple is located in this state.
Question 11.
Who was the first ruler to inscribe messages to subjects and officials?
[1 Marks]
Explanation: The correct answer is Ashoka. He was the first ruler who inscribed his messages to his subjects and officials on stone surfaces, including natural rocks and polished pillars. His inscriptions aimed to proclaim dhamma and are considered significant historical sources.
Question 12.
[1 Marks]
Which of the following statement is not true regarding Ibn Battuta ?
Explanation: The statement 'He wrote Badshahnama.' is not true regarding Ibn Battuta. The Badshahnama is a history of the reign of Shah Jahan, written by Abu'l-Fazl ibn Mubarak in the 16th century, while Ibn Battuta was a 14th-century Moroccan traveler known for his book 'Rihla' detailing his travels.
Question 13.
Which pair is correctly matched?
[1 Marks]
Explanation: The correct answer is 'Francois Bernier - Frenchman' because François Bernier was indeed a French doctor, political philosopher, and historian who traveled to the Mughal Empire, as mentioned in the provided context.
Question 14.
[1 Marks]
Arrange Sikh Gurus chronologically:
(i) Guru Gobind Singh,
(ii) Guru Arjan Dev,
(iii) Guru Har Kishan Dev,
(iv) Guru Nanak Dev.
Explanation: The correct chronological order of the Sikh Gurus is: (iv) Guru Nanak Dev (1469-1539), (ii) Guru Arjan Dev (1563-1606), (iii) Guru Har Kishan Dev (1656-1664), and (i) Guru Gobind Singh (1666-1708). Therefore, the correct option is 'iv, ii, iii, i'.
Question 15.
[1 Marks]
The land was classified into four categories under the rule of Akbar. Which of these four categories was considered the best ?
Explanation: The correct option is Polaj, as it is described as land which is annually cultivated for each crop in succession and is never allowed to lie fallow. This continuous cultivation indicates its fertility and productivity, making it the best category of land under Akbar's classification.
Question 16.
[1 Marks]
Who among the following introduced ' permanent settlement in bengal'?
Explanation: The correct answer is Charles Cornwallis. He was the Governor General of Bengal when the Permanent Settlement was introduced in 1793, establishing a fixed revenue system with zamindars.
Question 17.
[1 Marks]
Who among the following was called as 'frontier gandhi'
Explanation: Khan Abdul Ghaffar Khan was called the 'frontier gandhi' due to his strong association with the Indian independence movement and his dedication to non-violent resistance, similar to that of Mahatma Gandhi. He worked tirelessly for the rights of the people in the northwestern frontier of India and was an advocate for the principles of peace and social reform.
Question 18.
[1 Marks]
Who among the following demanded justice for women in the Constituent Assembly ?
Explanation: Hansa Mehta of Bombay demanded justice for women, advocating for social justice, economic justice, and political justice instead of reserved seats or separate electorates. Her emphasis on equality highlights her commitment to ensuring fair treatment for women in the newly formed Constitution.
Question 19.
[1 Marks]
Select the correct pair from the following options :
Explanation: The correct option is 'Dr. B.R. Ambedkar - Chairman of Drafting Committee'. Dr. B.R. Ambedkar was not only a significant member of the Constituent Assembly but also the person responsible for guiding the Draft Constitution through the Assembly. He played a crucial role in its formation, which aligns with the context provided.
Question 20.
[1 Marks]
Which of the following option is correctly matched ?
Explanation: The correct match is 'Arrah - Kunwar Singh'. Kunwar Singh was a local zamindar in Arrah, Bihar, who played a significant role during the uprising against British rule in 1857. The other options do not correctly pair the locations with their historical figures.
Question 21.
[1 Marks]
Identify the east india company's officer with the help of following information:
Explanation: The correct option is Francis Buchanan. The context specifies that he traveled with a large entourage, collecting information for the East India Company, and was noted as an agent of the Company, highlighting his role as an officer tasked with gathering valuable data for British governance and commerce.
Section C
Question 22.
Explain how the drainage system of Harappan cities indicates town planning.
[3 Marks]
Answer: The drainage system of Harappan cities like Mohenjodaro exemplifies advanced town planning through its organized layout. Streets were designed in a grid pattern, with drains established before house construction, ensuring every home could access the street drains. This systematic approach reflects a premeditated urban design, highlighting the importance of sanitation. The drainage channels, made from bricks in mortar, were regularly maintained, underscoring a community-oriented and health-conscious society. Such innovative measures indicate sophisticated engineering and municipal administration.
Question 23.
Explain why the seals and sealings were used by the Harappans.
[3 Marks]
Answer: The seals and sealings were integral to the Harappan civilization, serving multiple purposes. Primarily, they functioned as stamps for branding goods, indicating ownership, and controlling trade. Made from steatite, these seals often depicted animal motifs and incised inscriptions that likely signified the owner's identity and status. Additionally, seals facilitated communication across the vast trade networks that connected the Indus Valley to Mesopotamia, highlighting the Harappans' advanced trade practices. The undeciphered script remains a point of scholarly interest, suggesting these seals had deeper cultural significance beyond mere commerce.
Question 24.
How is Mahabharata a dynamic text? Explain with examples.
[3 Marks]
Answer: The Mahabharata is considered a dynamic text due to its continuous evolution over centuries and its adaptation into various languages and cultures. Originally written in Sanskrit, the epic has inspired countless retellings and adaptations in different regional languages, showcasing diverse cultural interpretations. For instance, in the South, the 'Kamba Ramayanam' reflects local idioms and narratives, while in the North, the 'Bhagavata Purana' incorporates its themes. This dynamic aspect allows the Mahabharata to resonate with different communities, maintaining its relevance and continuing dialogue in contemporary society.
Question 25.
Explain the role of women devotees in the traditions of Alvars and Nayanars.
[3 Marks]
Answer: Women devotees played a significant role in the traditions of the Alvars and Nayanars, contributing to the vibrant bhakti movement in Tamil Nadu. One notable figure is Andal, a prominent Alvar whose poetry expressed deep devotion to Vishnu. Her compositions, celebrating her love and longing for the deity, are still revered today. Additionally, women were respected among the Vellala peasants who held both the Alvars and Nayanars in high regard. This acceptance led rulers to seek their support, indicating the influential presence of women in spiritual and communal life. The works of female devotees enriched the devotional literature and reinforced the egalitarian aspects of the bhakti movement.
Question 26.
How did the Chishtis adopt the local languages of India during the Medieval period? Explain.
[3 Marks]
Answer: During the Medieval period, the Chishtis played a pivotal role in the cultural landscape of India by adopting local languages to communicate effectively with the populace. They utilized Hindavi, the vernacular of the people in Delhi, to make their teachings accessible. Sufis like Baba Farid produced verses in local dialects, which were significant enough to be included in the Guru Granth Sahib. The adoption of native languages like Punjabi and Hindi for composing ginans and devotional poetry not only facilitated their message but also integrated Sufi teachings within indigenous traditions. This linguistic transition helped bridge communal gaps and allowed for a wider acceptance of Sufi ideas in an era marked by growing religious identities.
Question 27.
Explain the distinctive features of Al-Kitab-Ul-Hind.
[3 Marks]
Answer: Al-Kitab-Ul-Hind, authored by Al-Biruni, is a comprehensive work that covers diverse aspects of Indian life. It comprises 80 chapters addressing topics such as religion, philosophy, astronomy, and social customs. One of its notable features is its structured approach, often beginning with a question, followed by detailed descriptions from Sanskrit sources, and concluding with cross-cultural comparisons. The text is also characterized by its simple and lucid Arabic, making complex ideas accessible. Al-Biruni's reliance on Brahmanic literature, including Vedas and Puranas, exemplifies his depth of engagement with Indian scholarly traditions. Additionally, his observations reflect a significant understanding of both indigenous and foreign perspectives on culture and society.
Question 28.
How did the American Civil War of 1861 affect the lives of Ryots of India? Explain.
[3 Marks]
Answer: The American Civil War of 1861 had significant repercussions for Indian ryots, particularly in the Deccan. The war caused a cotton shortage in the United States, leading to increased demand for Indian cotton. Consequently, ryots received unprecedented access to credit, with sahukars providing advances of Rs 100 per acre for cotton planting. While this led to a surge in cotton production – with acreage doubling between 1860 and 1864 – it also resulted in heavier debts for many ryots, with only a few benefitting financially. Thus, despite the apparent boom, the situation primarily aggravated the financial struggles of the majority of producers.
Question 29.
[3 Marks]
" Art and literature high highlighted the importance of Laxmi bai ." support the statement with suitable example.
Answer: Rani Lakshmi Bai, the queen of Jhansi, has been immortalized in various forms of art and literature, symbolizing resistance against colonial rule. Her depiction in popular prints often shows her in battle armor, emphasizing her valor and determination in combating injustice. For instance, artworks portray her wielding a sword and riding a horse, highlighting her role as a fierce warrior. Additionally, films and posters have contributed to her image as a masculine figure of strength, reinforcing her significance as a symbol of women's empowerment and national pride during the Indian Rebellion of 1857.
Section D
Question 30.
[8 Marks]
" The stupa at sanchi among the best preserved monument of the earliest times." explain the statement
Answer: The stupa at Sanchi, one of the most significant Buddhist monuments, is renowned for its well-preserved structure which provides insight into early Buddhist architecture and culture. Discovered in a time when many historical sites were undervalued, Sanchi received timely restoration efforts by the Archaeological Survey of India. Unlike the site of Amaravati, which was less appreciated initially, Sanchi's status as a critical archaeological site was recognized early on, ensuring its conservation. The stupas, adorned with intricate carvings and gateways, reflect historical narratives, devotional practices, and artistic craftsmanship of early Buddhism, serving as a connection to the spiritual and cultural milieu of the time. These aspects contribute to Sanchi's reputation as one of the best-preserved monuments from early history, illustrating its importance in understanding the origins and evolution of Buddhism.
Question 31.
[8 Marks]
Explain the growth of Puranic Hinduism.
Answer: Puranic Hinduism emerged as a significant aspect of Hindu beliefs and practices by integrating various traditions and cults. This growth was characterized by the rise of Vaishnavism and Shaivism, focusing on the worship of Vishnu and Shiva, respectively. The Puranas played a crucial role in this development, as they composed in simple Sanskrit, made these teachings accessible to a broader audience, including women and the Shudras. The Puranas contained narratives about gods and goddesses that reflected societal values and local traditions, indicating a divergence from the Vedic tradition. Through the preservation and dissemination of Brahmanical ideas, alongside interactions with diverse cultures, Puranic Hinduism grew and absorbed various beliefs, creating a rich tapestry of practices unique to the subcontinent. Over time, what we now call Hinduism took shape, encompassing both the elite Sanskritic traditions and local folk beliefs, demonstrating a continuous dialogue among different societal elements.
Question 32.
Explain the reasons of apogee and fall of the Vijayanagara Empire.
[8 Marks]
Answer: The Vijayanagara Empire, founded in 1336 by Harihara and Bukka, reached its apogee under the reign of Krishnadeva Raya (1509-1529). During this period, the empire thrived due to effective administration, military prowess, and cultural patronage. The diverse population coexisted harmoniously, contributing to both economic prosperity and cultural flourishing. Key victories over the Deccan Sultanates expanded its territory. However, after Krishnadeva Raya's death, the empire experienced fragmentation and chaos as rival factions, especially rebellious Nayakas, emerged. The pivotal defeat at the Battle of Talikota in 1565 marked the empire's decline, leading to its sacking. The weakened central authority allowed regional powers to assert dominance, hastening the empire's fall by the end of the seventeenth century. Political instability, lack of strong leadership, and continuous military conflicts significantly contributed to its downfall.
Question 33.
Explain the distinctive features of the Royal Centre of Vijayanagara Empire.
[8 Marks]
Answer: The Royal Centre of the Vijayanagara Empire, established in the 14th century, showcases a remarkable blend of architectural styles and cultural influences that represent the empire's grandeur. One of the most distinctive features is the unique design of temples, particularly the Virupaksha temple, which began in the 9th-10th centuries and was expanded under the Vijayanagara rulers. The imperial culture is highlighted by the intricate layout of temple complexes, characterized by expansive halls, detailed sculptures, and the iconic chariot-shaped shrine. The Royal Centre also features notable structures such as gopurams (towering gateways) and aqueducts that exemplify advanced engineering. The physical layout of the capital includes organized streets and fortified walls, enhancing its strategic significance. A significant historical description by Abdur Razzaq Samarqandi illuminates the vibrancy of the city, filled with merchants, temples, and a rich cultural milieu, showcasing the empire's role as a key center for trade and religion.
Question 34.
Examine the reasons and outcomes of the Salt Satyagraha.
[8 Marks]
Answer: The Salt Satyagraha, initiated by Mahatma Gandhi in 1930, was aimed at protesting the British monopoly on salt production and the associated taxation that imposed financial burdens on Indians. The reason salt was chosen as a symbol of protest was its ubiquitous nature in everyday life, making it easily relatable for all classes of society. Gandhi believed that by targeting such a fundamental commodity, he could unify the Indian populace against British rule. The march from Sabarmati Ashram to Dandi, where Gandhi and his followers produced salt from the sea, symbolized a defiance of unjust laws. The British response was swift, leading to the arrest of around 60,000 people, including Gandhi himself. This move, instead of quelling the movement, heightened international awareness of India's struggle for freedom and inspired further protests. The Salt Satyagraha showcased the power of nonviolent resistance and marked a significant turning point in the Indian independence movement, eventually contributing to widespread political mobilization and altering the dynamics between Indians and the British authorities.
Question 35.
Examine the causes and events of Quit India Movement.
[8 Marks]
Answer: The Quit India Movement, initiated in August 1942, was a pivotal moment in India's struggle for freedom from British rule. The immediate cause was the failure of the Cripps Mission, which aimed to secure Indian cooperation during World War II. Mahatma Gandhi, after recognizing that the time had come for a decisive push for independence, called for 'Do or Die' among the Indian masses, urging them to act against British rule. Despite Gandhi's arrest at the movement's outset, the response from the Indian populace was overwhelming. Young activists organized numerous strikes, demonstrations, and acts of sabotage across the country. This movement was distinguished by its mass participation, with students and citizens alike motivated to join the struggle for freedom. The British government, faced with this widespread civil disobedience, responded with severe repression, but even their forceful measures could not fully suppress the movement for over a year. The Quit India Movement not only showcased the unity of various sections of Indian society, drawing inspiration from the earlier 1857 rebellion, but also laid the groundwork for the eventual independence of India on August 15, 1947. It symbolized the fervent desire for self-rule among the Indian populace and remained a lasting legacy in the annals of India's independence struggle.
Other Years — HISTORY