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SOLUTIONS

2023 BOARD EXAM

CBSE CLASS 12-HUMANITIES HISTORY Board Paper 2023 — Set 3

2023

HISTORY

CLASS 12-HUMANITIES

CBSE EXAMINATION SOLVED PAPER-2023 HISTORY

CBSE EXAMINATION PAPER-2023

HISTORY

(Solved)

Time allowed : 3 hours

Maximum Marks : 66

General Instructions :

Read the following instructions carefully and follow them :

  1. This question paper contains 29 questions. All questions are compulsory.
  2. This question paper is divided into 4 sections.
  3. Section A – questions number 1 to 4 are case based questions
  4. Section B – questions number 5 to 21 are multiple choice questions
  5. Section C – questions number 22 to 24 are short answer
  6. Section D – questions number 25 to 29 are long answer
  7. There is no overall choice given in the question paper. However, an internal choice has been provided in few questions.
  8. Use of calculator is NOT allowed.

Section A

Question 1.

Read the given source and answer the questions that follow :

How artefacts are identified

Processing of food required grinding equipment as well as vessels for mixing, blending and cooking. These were made of stone, metal and terracotta. This is an excerpt from one of the earliest reports on excavations at Mohenjodaro, the best-known Harappan site : Saddle querns ... are found in considerable numbers ... and they seem to have been the only means in use for grinding cereals. As a rule, they were roughly made of hard, gritty, igneous rock or sandstone and mostly show signs of hard usage. As their bases are usually convex, they must have been set in the earth or in mud to prevent their rocking. Two main types have been found: those on which another smaller stone was pushed or rolled to and fro, and others with which a second stone was used as a pounder, eventually making a large cavity in the nether stone. Querns of the former type were probably used solely for grain; the second type possibly only for pounding herbs and spices for making curries. In fact stones of this latter type are dubbed "curry stones" by our workman and our cook asked for the loan of one from the museum for use in the kitchen.

(From Ernest Mackay, Further Excavations at Mohenjodaro)

(1) How do archaeologists classify their finds?

[1 Marks]
Answer: Archaeologists classify their finds based on the type of material and their functional use. For example, in the context of Mohenjodaro, they identified saddle querns as grinding equipment used for cereals, distinguishing between different types based on their structure and purpose, such as those used for grain and those for pounding herbs and spices.
Key Points: Classification based on material-type; Function of artefacts; Example of saddle querns

(2)

How has Ernest Mackay described 'Saddle quern' in his book?

[2 Marks]
Answer: The source provides valuable insights into the subsistence strategies of the Harappan civilization, particularly their food processing methods. It describes the use of saddle querns, which were essential for grinding cereals, indicating a reliance on agriculture and grain-based diets. The reference to two types of querns suggests that they not only processed grains but also herbs and spices, which implies a diverse culinary practice. Overall, these artifacts showcase the technological advancements in food preparation that were crucial for the sustenance of the Harappan people.
Key Points: use of saddle querns for grinding cereals-agricultural reliance-diverse food processing techniques

(3) How do archaeologists use present day analogies to understand ancient artefacts?

[1 Marks]
Answer: Archaeologists use present-day analogies by comparing ancient artefacts to modern tools and practices. For instance, the saddle querns mentioned in the excerpt are similar to today’s grinding stones, which help researchers infer their use in food processing and the types of food prepared.
Key Points: Comparison with modern tools-Understanding food processing techniques-Inferring cultural practices
Question 2.

Read the given source and answer the questions that follow :

Irrigating trees and fields

This is an excerpt from the Babur Nama that describes the irrigation devices the emperor observed in northern India :

The greater part of Hindustan country is situated on level land. Many though its towns and cultivated lands are, it nowhere has running waters ... For ... water is not at all a necessity in cultivating crops and orchards. Autumn crops grow by the downpour of the rains themselves; and strange it is that spring crops grow even when no rains fall. (However) to young trees water is made to flow by means of buckets or wheels ...

In Lahore, Dipalpur (both in present-day Pakistan) and those other parts, people water by means of a wheel. They make two circles of rope long enough to suit the depths of the well, fix strips of wood between them, and on these fasten pitchers. The ropes with the wood and attached pitchers are put over the wheelwell. At one end of the wheel-axle a second wheel is fixed, and close to it another on an upright axle. The last wheel the bullock turns; its teeth catch in the teeth of the second (wheel), and thus the wheel with the pitchers is turned. A trough is set where the water empties from the pitchers and from this the water is conveyed everywhere.

In Agra, Chandwar, Bayana (all in present-day Uttar Pradesh) and those parts again, people water with a bucket ... At the well-edge they set up a fork of wood, having a roller adjusted between the forks, tie a rope to a large bucket, put the rope over a roller, and tie its other end to the bullock. One person must drive the bullock, another empty the bucket.

(1) How did the expansion of irrigation facilities increase the participation of farmers?

[1 Marks]
Answer: The expansion of irrigation facilities allowed farmers to cultivate crops more effectively and efficiently. With access to better water management tools like wheels and buckets, farmers could irrigate their fields and orchards even during dry spells. This ability to control water supply not only increased crop yields but also encouraged more farmers to engage in agriculture, knowing that they could support their crops adequately throughout the growing season.
Key Points: Increased crop yields-Enhanced water management-Encouraged more farmers to engage in agriculture

(2) Examine the factor that accounted for the expansion of agriculture in Mughal Period.

[1 Marks]
Answer: One of the key factors that contributed to the expansion of agriculture during the Mughal Period was the development of efficient irrigation techniques. The use of devices such as wheels and buckets allowed for the effective distribution of water, even in regions where running water was not readily available. This innovation enabled farmers to cultivate both autumn and spring crops, thereby increasing agricultural productivity and supporting a larger population.
Key Points: advancements in irrigation techniques - use of wheels and buckets - increased agricultural productivity

(3) Examine the irrigation devices used in agrarian culture.

[2 Marks]
Answer: In the agrarian culture of northern India, as described in the Babur Nama, several innovative irrigation devices were used to manage water for crops and orchards. One primary method involved a wheel mechanism that utilized the motion of a bullock to lift water from wells. This device consisted of two circles of rope, wooden strips to hold pitchers, and a wheel that turned as a bullock walked. Another method included the use of buckets where a wooden fork supported a roller to which a bucket was attached. The bullock would pull the rope, raising the bucket filled with water. Both systems effectively supplied water to young trees and cultivated lands, showcasing the ingenuity in irrigation practices of that era.
Key Points: Wheel mechanism for water lifting-Bullock-driven irrigation devices-Bucket system for well irrigation
Question 3.

Read the given source and answer the questions that follow :

The jotedars of Dinajpur

Buchanan described the ways in which the jotedars of Dinajpur in North Bengal resisted being disciplined by the zamindar and undermined his power : Landlords do not like this class of men, but it is evident that they are absolutely necessary, unless the landlords themselves would advance money to their necessitous tenantry ...

The jotedars who cultivate large portions of lands are very refractory, and know that the zamindars have no power over them. They pay only a few rupees on account of their revenue and then fall in balance almost every kist (instalment), they hold more lands than they are entitled to by their pottahs (deeds of contract). should be zamindar's officers in consequence, summon them to the cutcherry, and detain them for one or two hours with a view to reprimand them, they immediately go and complain at the Fouzdarry Thanna (police station) for imprisonment and at the munsiff's (a judicial officers at the lower court) cutcherry for being dishonoured and whilst the causes continue unsettled, they instigate the petty ryots not to pay their revenue consequently ...

(1) Why did jotedars resist the Zamindars of Dinajpur?

[1 Marks]
Answer: The jotedars resisted the zamindars of Dinajpur because they felt they were essential for the functioning of the farming economy but did not want to be controlled or disciplined by the landlords. They paid minimal revenue and often fell into balance for payments, demonstrating their defiance. The jotedars also utilized legal and political avenues to contest the zamindar's authority, such as complaining to the police and lower courts when reprimanded.
Key Points: jotedars necessary for farming economy; refusal to be controlled; minimal revenue payments; legal complaints against zamindars' authority

(2) How did Jotedars instigate the ryots?

[1 Marks]
Answer: The jotedars instigated the ryots by encouraging them not to pay their revenue. They leveraged their influence over the ryots by complaining to the police and judicial authorities whenever they faced reprimands from the zamindar's officers. This created a sense of mistrust and resistance among the ryots towards the zamindar, ultimately leading them to withhold payment.
Key Points: Influence over ryots - Complaints to police and judiciary - Encouragement to withhold revenue payment

(3) How did jotedars gain power in the village?

[2 Marks]
Answer: Jotedars gained power in the village by cultivating large portions of land, making them less dependent on zamindars. They effectively resisted the zamindar's authority by refusing to pay their full dues and instigating other ryots not to pay their revenue as well. This defiance made them influential, as they complained to the authorities when summoned, which undermined the zamindar's power and showcased their ability to leverage legal and social mechanisms against the landlords.
Key Points: Cultivated large areas of land; paid minimal revenue; instigated petty ryots; undermined zamindar's authority; utilized legal complaints to assert power
Question 4.

On the given political outline map of India (on page 27), locate and label the following with appropriate symbols :

(1)

Kannauj Ashokan Inscription

[1 Marks]
Answer: Locate Kannauj on the political outline map of India and mark it with an appropriate symbol to indicate the presence of Ashokan inscription found there.
Key Points: Locate Kannauj on the map- Use an appropriate symbol (e.g., dot or star)- Label it clearly as 'Kannauj Ashokan Inscription' or similar phrase

(2)

Rakhigarhi Mature Harappan site

[1 Marks]
Answer: Locate Rakhigarhi in the Hisar district of Haryana on the map and mark it with the symbol designated for Mature Harappan sites, such as a small dot or triangle as instructed. Label the site clearly as 'Rakhigarhi'.
Key Points: Rakhigarhi is located in Hisar district of Haryana - Biggest Harappan city with area of 550 hectares - Mark on map with appropriate symbol used for Mature Harappan sites - Label clearly as 'Rakhigarhi'

(3)

Ajmer Territory under control of Mughals

[1 Marks]
Answer: On the political outline map of India, locate Ajmer in the state of Rajasthan and label it as the Ajmer Territory under the control of the Mughals using the appropriate symbol (such as a shaded area or dot as per the map instructions).
Key Points: Locate Ajmer in Rajasthan- Identify it as under Mughal control- Use correct symbol as per map instructions

(4)

Mysore An empire

[1 Marks]
Answer: On the political outline map of India, locate the region of Mysore in the southern part of India, specifically in the present-day state of Karnataka. Mark and label it as 'Mysore Empire' using the appropriate symbol as instructed in the map key.
Key Points: Locate Mysore in southern India-Locate present-day Karnataka region-Use correct symbol as per map instructions-Label the region as Mysore Empire

(5)

On the same political outline map of India, two places related to British control in 1857 are marked as A and B. Identify them and write their names on the lines drawn near them.

[2 Marks]
Answer: The two places marked as A and B on the political outline map of India related to British control in 1857 are Delhi and Lucknow. These cities were significant sites during the revolt of 1857, where important battles between the British forces and Indian rebels took place.
Key Points: Identify places related to British control in 1857-Recognize Delhi and Lucknow as major centers during the 1857 revolt-Understand their significance in the context of the British struggle to maintain control

(6)

Name any two Buddhist sites in India.

[2 Marks]
Answer: Two major Buddhist sites in India are Sanchi and Ajanta. Sanchi is famous for its stupas and ancient Buddhist monuments, while Ajanta is known for its rock-cut caves and beautiful paintings related to the life of Buddha.
Key Points: Mention Sanchi as a Buddhist site-Mention Ajanta as a Buddhist site-Highlight their significance (stupas at Sanchi, paintings at Ajanta)

(7)

Name any one capital city of the Mughal Empire.

[1 Marks]
Answer: One of the capital cities of the Mughal Empire was Delhi.
Key Points: Mughal Empire had multiple capital cities-Delhi and Agra are the main ones-Delhi was an important political center during Mughal rule

(8)

Name any one territory under Mughal empire.

[1 Marks]
Answer: One territory under the Mughal Empire was Agra.
Key Points: Mughal Empire was a large territorial empire in India-One of the territories under Mughal rule was Agra-Agra was an important city and often served as a capital during the Mughal period

(9)

Name any two centres of the Revolt of 1857.

[2 Marks]
Answer: Two important centres of the Revolt of 1857 were Awadh and Delhi. Awadh was a major region where the revolt unfolded as a popular resistance against British rule. Delhi was another centre where the rebels fought against the British forces.
Key Points: Awadh as a major centre of revolt-Popular resistance in Awadh-Delhi as a key centre of revolt-Active fighting against British forces in Delhi

Section B

Question 5.

Read the following statements about the Indus Valley Civilization:

(i) Early and mature Harappan culture shared subsistence strategies.

(ii) Millets have been found from one of the Indus Valley Civilization sites.

(iii) Archaeologists have found evidences of a ploughed field at Kalibangan.

(iv) Archaeo-zoologists reconstructed dietary practices from charred grains. Choose the correct option:
[1 Marks]
  • (A) (ii), (iii) and (iv)
  • (B) (i), (ii) and (iv)
  • (C) (i), (iii) and (iv)
  • (D) (i), (ii) and (iii)
Explanation:

Correct option: (i), (ii), and (iii) ,(i) Early and mature Harappan culture shared subsistence strategies.

(ii) Millets have been found from one of the Indus Valley Civilization sites.

(iii) Archaeologists have found evidences of a ploughed field at Kalibangan.

Question 6. Which one of the following is the oldest dynasty?
[1 Marks]
  • (A) Maurya
  • (B) Gupta
  • (C) Kanva
  • (D) Kushana
Explanation: The Maurya dynasty is considered the oldest among the given options. It was established in the 4th century BCE and is known for its significant contributions to Indian history, including the reign of Emperor Ashoka. The Kanva, Gupta, and Kushana dynasties came later.
Question 7. Which of the following is not a literature of Buddhism?
[1 Marks]
  • (A) Vinaya Pitaka and Sutta Pitaka
  • (B) Jataka Stories and Ashokavadana
  • (C) Dipavamsa and Mahavamsa
  • (D) Uttaradhyayana Sutra and Tattvartha Sutra
Explanation: The correct answer is 'Tattvartha Sutra' because it is a key text within Jain philosophy and not associated with Buddhism. The other options, including Uttaradhyayana Sutra, Dipavamsa, Mahavamsa, Jataka Stories, Ashokavadana, Vinaya Pitaka, and Sutta Pitaka, are all relevant to Buddhist literature.
Question 8. Which of the following countries did Marco Polo belong to?
[1 Marks]
  • (A) Italy
  • (B) Spain
  • (C) France
  • (D) Portugal
Explanation: Marco Polo was born in Venice, which is part of Italy. Therefore, the correct option is Italy.
Question 9.

Which of the following statements are correct about the Bhakti saint, Karaikkal Ammaiyar?

(i) She was a woman devotee from Karnataka.

(ii) She was a woman Nayanar.

(iii) She was a devotee of Shiva.

(iv) She composed Nalayira Divyaprabandham.
[1 Marks]
  • (A) (ii) and (iv)
  • (B) (iii) and (iv)
  • (C) (ii) and (iii)
  • (D) (i) and (iii)
Explanation:

The correct options are (ii) and (iii). Karaikkal Ammaiyar was a renowned woman Nayanar and a devotee of Shiva, recognized for her deep devotion in the Tamil Bhakti tradition. However, she was not from Karnataka; she hailed from Tamil Nadu, and she did not compose the Nalayira Divyaprabandham, which was authored by other Vaishnava Saints.

Question 10. Which one of the following revenue systems was implemented by Charles Cornwallis in India?
[1 Marks]
  • (A) The Zamindari System
  • (B) The Mahalwari System
  • (C) The Malguzari System
  • (D) The Ryotwari System
Explanation: The correct answer is The Zamindari System. This system was introduced by Charles Cornwallis as part of his revenue reforms in the late 18th century, where landlords (zamindars) were given the responsibility of collecting land revenue from the peasants and paying it to the British government.
Question 11.

Which of the following are correct about Mughal Land Revenue Collection?

(i) Kankut: Estimation of crops as good, middle and inferior.

(ii) Batai: Crops were reaped, sacked and divided by agreement.

(iii) Khet Batai: Division of fields before they were sown.

(iv) Lang Batai: Division of crops among Kings and Zamindars.
[1 Marks]
  • (A) (i) and (ii)
  • (B) (ii) and (iv)
  • (C) (ii) and (iii)
  • (D) (iii) and (iv)
Explanation: (i) Kankut refers to the estimation of crops as good, middle, and inferior, which is correct. (ii) Batai involves crops being reaped, sacked, and divided by agreement, which is also correct. Therefore, the correct options are (i) and (ii). The other options (iii) and (iv) do not accurately describe the established terms related to Mughal land revenue.
Question 12. Krishnadeva Raya belonged to which of the following dynasties of Vijayanagara Empire?
[1 Marks]
  • (A) Sangama
  • (B) Tuluva
  • (C) Aravidu
  • (D) Saluva
Explanation: Krishnadeva Raya was a prominent ruler of the Tuluva dynasty in the Vijayanagara Empire, known for his military conquests and contributions to art and architecture.
Question 13.

Identify the leader of the Revolt of 1857 with the help of the following information:

[1 Marks]
  • (A) Wajid Ali Shah
  • (B) Muhammad Shah
  • (C) Bahadur Shah Zafar
  • (D) Shah Alam
Explanation:

The correct answer is Bahadur Shah Zafar. He was the last Mughal Emperor and ruled from Delhi during the Revolt of 1857. His leadership provided a symbolic legitimacy to the uprising, as many rebels rallied under his authority in their fight against British colonial rule.

Question 14.

Assertion (A): The Jallianwala Bagh massacre marked a turning point in India's struggle for independence.

Reason (R): The massacre spoiled the relations with the British and was the opening of Gandhiji's commitment to Indian nationalism.
[1 Marks]
  • (A) Both (A) and (R) are true, but (R) is not the correct explanation of (A).
  • (B) (A) is true but (R) is untrue.
  • (C) Both (A) and (R) are true and (R) is the correct explanation of (A).
  • (D) (A) is not true but (R) is true.
Explanation:

Both (A) and (R) are true and (R) is the correct explanation of (A). The Jallianwala Bagh massacre indeed marked a significant turning point in Indian history as it intensified anti-British sentiments among Indians. This event was pivotal in shaping Mahatma Gandhi's approach to Indian nationalism, leading to his increased involvement in the struggle against British rule.

Question 15. Who among the following was the President of the Constituent Assembly?
[1 Marks]
  • (A) Dr. B.R. Ambedkar
  • (B) Mahatma Gandhi
  • (C) Sardar Patel
  • (D) Dr. Rajendra Prasad
Explanation: Dr. Rajendra Prasad was the President of the Constituent Assembly. He played a pivotal role in the framing of the Constitution of India and was influential in leading the assembly's discussions and decisions.
Question 16.

Which of the following is the correct chronology of the rulers of ancient India?

(i) Chandragupta Maurya

(ii) Ajatashatru

(iii) Mahapadma Nanda

(iv) Ashoka
[1 Marks]
  • (A) (ii), (iii), (i), (iv)
  • (B) (iii), (ii), (i), (iv)
  • (C) (ii), (iv), (iii), (i)
  • (D) (i), (ii), (iii), (iv)
Explanation: The correct chronological order of these rulers is (iii) Mahapadma Nanda, (ii) Ajatashatru, (i) Chandragupta Maurya, (iv) Ashoka. Mahapadma Nanda ruled before Ajatashatru, who was a ruler of the Haryanka dynasty, followed by Chandragupta Maurya who founded the Maurya Empire, and then his grandson Ashoka, who was one of the most notable emperors of India.
Question 17.

Fill in the blank: In the __________, the executives were made entirely responsible to the Provincial Legislature.
[1 Marks]
  • (A) Indian Independence Act, 1947
  • (B) Morley-Minto Reforms, 1909
  • (C) Government of India Act, 1919
  • (D) Government of India Act, 1935
Explanation: The correct answer is 'Government of India Act, 1919'. This act introduced the concept of dyarchy in the provinces, where elected officials were made responsible to the provincial legislatures, thus allowing for a degree of self-governance.
Question 18. Who among the following Chinese Buddhist monks visited India in the fifth century (CE)?
[1 Marks]
  • (A) Xuan Zang
  • (B) Fa Xian
  • (C) I-Tsing
  • (D) Yijing
Explanation: The correct answer is 'Fa Xian'. He was a Chinese Buddhist monk who traveled to India in the fifth century to obtain Buddhist texts and disseminate them back in China.
Question 19. Who led the Revolt of 1857 from Lucknow?
[1 Marks]
  • (A) Alamgir
  • (B) Birjis Qadr
  • (C) Peshwa Baji Rao
  • (D) Nana Sahib
Explanation: The correct answer is Birjis Qadr, who was a key figure in the Revolt of 1857, specifically leading the resistance in Lucknow against British rule.
Question 20.

With which of the following aspect was the ' Ricardian theory ' related?
[1 Marks]
  • (A) Political
  • (B) Social
  • (C) Economic
  • (D) Cultural
Explanation:

The 'Ricardian theory' is primarily related to the economic aspect as it deals with the principles of comparative advantage and trade between nations, focusing on how different countries can benefit from specializing in the production of goods in which they have a relative efficiency. This clearly indicates its foundations in economic theory.

Question 21.

Identify the theme of "Sushruta Samhita" from the following options:
[1 Marks]
  • (A) Work on Mathematics
  • (B) Work on Constellation
  • (C) Work on Grammar
  • (D) Work on Medicine
Explanation: The Sushruta Samhita is an ancient Sanskrit text known for its detailed work on medicine, surgery, and healthcare practices, making 'Work on Medicine' the correct theme. The other options such as grammar, constellation, and mathematics do not relate to this text.

Section C

Question 22. Why is Mahabharata considered a dynamic text? Explain.
[3 Marks]
Answer: The Mahabharata is considered a dynamic text due to its adaptability and multifaceted nature. Firstly, it encompasses a wide range of themes including duty, morality, and dharma, which resonate with readers across different eras. This text is not static; it has been retold in various languages and forms, including plays, movies, and television series, signifying its continual relevance. Moreover, the narrative structures and philosophies within the Mahabharata invite diverse interpretations, engaging scholars, and audiences alike. The presence of multiple viewpoints in its characters, such as the complexities of Arjuna and Krishna’s dialogues, also contributes to its dynamic quality, allowing for varying interpretations based on contemporary issues. In essence, the Mahabharata evolves with society, making it a timeless piece of literature.
Question 23. Describe any three experiences of Ibn Battuta in India.
[3 Marks]
Answer: Ibn Battuta, the famed Moroccan traveler, visited India in the 14th century and recorded several fascinating experiences. First, he was welcomed by the Sultan of Delhi, Muhammad bin Tughlaq, where he noted the vastness and magnificence of the court, detailing the administration and cultural life. Second, during his travels in the southern part of India, he marveled at the vibrant city of Calicut, particularly the thriving trade and interaction between various cultures. Finally, he encountered the diverse customs and practices of various Indian communities, which enriched his understanding of the subcontinent’s cultural tapestry. His observations provide valuable insights into India's historical and cultural landscape during that period.
Question 24. How did G.B. Pant show his concern in the Constituent Assembly for making India a unified nation? Explain.
[3 Marks]
Answer: G.B. Pant played a significant role in addressing the challenges of national integration during the debates in the Constituent Assembly. He emphasized the importance of a unified identity for India, advocating for the idea that despite the diverse cultures and languages, the nation should come together as one. Pant argued for the need of a federal structure that respects regional autonomy while promoting national unity. His efforts included supporting policies that fostered inclusivity, aimed at reducing regional disparities, and promoting social justice. Pant's vision of a unified India was rooted in the belief that a strong, cohesive nation could be built by respecting its diversity, addressing inequities, and fostering a sense of belonging among all citizens.

Section D

Question 25. Why is the mid-first millennium BCE often regarded as a turning point in world history? Explain with examples.
[8 Marks]
Answer: The mid-first millennium BCE is often regarded as a turning point in world history due to significant developments in culture, governance, and trade across various civilizations. One major transformation was the rise of powerful empires, such as the Persian Empire under Cyrus the Great, which unified vast regions and facilitated trade routes, fostering cultural exchange. In the realm of philosophy, this period witnessed the emergence of influential thinkers like Confucius in China and the Pre-Socratics in Greece, whose ideas laid the groundwork for future philosophical and ethical systems. Additionally, the spread of literacy and written communication in this era played a crucial role in bureaucratic administration and record-keeping, further creating a foundation for organized societies. Trade networks expanded, connecting regions from the Mediterranean to Asia, exemplified by the establishment of the Silk Road. This not only enhanced economic interdependence but also promoted exchanges of ideas, technologies, and cultural practices. The impact of these transformations was profound, leading to advancements in governance, science, and art. Overall, the mid-first millennium BCE represented a pivotal era where new ideologies and structures emerged, significantly shaping the trajectory of civilizations in the subsequent centuries.
Question 26. How have Art historians tried to understand Buddhism through the sculptures of Sanchi Stupa? Explain with examples.
[8 Marks]
Answer: Art historians have examined the sculptures of the Sanchi Stupa as crucial artifacts for understanding early Buddhism and its cultural significance. The Sanchi Stupa, built in the 3rd century BCE, is adorned with intricate carvings that depict various Jataka tales, representing the previous lives of the Buddha. For instance, the sculpture depicting the Jataka of the 'Buddha as the Great Elephant' symbolizes compassion and sacrifice, core tenets of Buddhist philosophy. Additionally, the architectural elements, including gateways (toranas), exhibit a narrative style that integrates Buddhist teachings with local artistic traditions, revealing a blend of cultural influences. The depiction of symbolic motifs like the lotus and wheel signifies enlightenment and the Buddha's teachings, respectively. Through detailed iconographic analysis, art historians have traced these elements to understand how sculpture communicates Buddhist doctrines, rituals, and the spread of Buddhist art across Asia. The evolution of stylistic elements at Sanchi reflects broader socio-political changes influencing Buddhism's development, illustrating the stupa's role as a center for both worship and community engagement. Ultimately, the study of Sanchi's sculptures provides insights into the historical context of Buddhism and its adaptation in various cultural landscapes, making it a significant focal point for understanding Buddhist art.
Question 27. Describe the philosophy and teachings of Kabir.
[8 Marks]
Answer: Kabir, a prominent 15th-century Indian saint and poet, is renowned for his profound spiritual philosophy that transcends religious boundaries. His teachings emphasize the importance of a direct and personal relationship with God, advocating for internal spirituality over external rituals. Kabir’s poetry, often written in the form of dohas (couplets), conveys deep insights about the nature of existence, the unity of all beings, and the futility of sectarian divisions. He challenged orthodox practices in both Hinduism and Islam, urging followers to seek truth and love rather than be bogged down by dogma. Kabir’s central themes include the oneness of God, the significance of self-realization, and the need for compassion and love toward all. He believed that true devotion arises from a sincere heart, devoid of pretense. His legacy continues to influence spiritual seekers and reformers, as his verses resonate with universal truths about humanity and divinity, promoting a message of love, peace, and unity.
Question 28. Describe the teachings and philosophy of Islam.
[8 Marks]
Answer: Islam is one of the world's major religions, founded by the Prophet Muhammad in the 7th century CE in the Arabian Peninsula. The core teachings of Islam are encapsulated in the Five Pillars, which are the declaration of faith (Shahada), prayer (Salah), almsgiving (Zakat), fasting during Ramadan (Sawm), and pilgrimage to Mecca (Hajj). These practices foster spiritual development, community spirit, and social justice. Islam teaches the oneness of God (Tawhid), emphasizing monotheism and the idea that Allah is merciful, compassionate, and just. The Quran, regarded as the final revelation from God, guides Muslims in matters of morality, law, and personal conduct, advocating for values like honesty, charity, humility, and respect for others. Additionally, Islam stresses the importance of community (Ummah) and social responsibility, inspiring believers to contribute positively to society. The philosophical aspects of Islam explore the relationship between God and humanity, free will versus predestination, and the pursuit of knowledge. Furthermore, Islamic teachings encourage dialogue among different cultures and respect for diversity, ultimately aiming for harmony and peace within society and with the natural world.
Question 29. Analyze India's socio-political landscape during 1930–34.
[8 Marks]
Answer: Between 1930 and 1934, India's socio-political landscape underwent significant transformations marked by the rise of nationalism and profound social changes. The Civil Disobedience Movement, initiated by Mahatma Gandhi in 1930, played a pivotal role in mobilizing the masses against British colonial rule. The movements emphasized nonviolent resistance and civil rights, uniting diverse segments of society. The 1935 Government of India Act reinforced political participation but failed to address pressing social issues like poverty and inequality. Moreover, the period also saw the emergence of revolutionary activities and the rise of various political factions, including the Indian National Congress and the Muslim League, each with differing aspirations. The economic turmoil during the Great Depression added to the unrest, as it severely impacted agriculture and industry, leading to widespread discontent. Socially, this period also witnessed a growing awareness of women’s rights and the beginnings of educational reforms. Overall, 1930-34 was a crucial juncture in India's struggle for independence that set the stage for future political developments and social changes.

Paper Details

CBSE Board Exam 2023

Class

CLASS 12-HUMANITIES

Subject

HISTORY

Year

2023

Set

Set 3

Other Years — HISTORY

2022 Set-1

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