SOLUTIONS
2024 BOARD EXAM
CBSE CLASS 12-HUMANITIES HISTORY Board Paper 2024 — Set 5
2024
HISTORY
CLASS 12-HUMANITIES
CBSE EXAMINATION PAPER-2024
HISTORY
(Solved)
General Instructions :
Read the following instructions carefully and follow them :
- This question paper contains 34 questions. All questions are compulsory.
- This question paper is divided into 4 sections.
- Section A – questions number 1 to 4 are case based questions
- Section B – questions number 5 to 20 are multiple choice questions
- Section C – questions number 21 to 28 are short answer
- Section D – questions number 29 to 34 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 following source carefully and answer the questions that follow:
Buddhism in practice
This is an excerpt from the Sutta Pitaka, and contains the advice given by the Buddha to a wealthy house holder named Sigala:
In five ways should a master look after his serva ntsand employees.... by assigning them work according to their strength, by supplying them with food and wages,by tending them in sickness; by sharing delicacies with the man dby granting leave at times...
In five ways should the clansmen look after the needs of samanas (those who have renounced the world)andBrahmanas:byaffectioninact and speech and mind, by keeping open house to them and supplying their worldly needs.
There are similar instructions to Sigala about how to behave with his parents,teacher and wife.
(1) Explain the significance of Sutta Pitaka in Buddhism.
[1 Marks]
Answer: The Sutta Pitaka is one of the key texts in the Pali Canon, which forms the foundation of Theravada Buddhism. It comprises a collection of discourses attributed to the Buddha, providing essential teachings and guidelines for ethical conduct and spiritual development. The significance of the Sutta Pitaka lies in its role as a spiritual guide for both laypeople and monastics. It includes teachings on morality, meditation, and wisdom, reflecting the Buddhist path to enlightenment. The excerpt addressing Sigala demonstrates practical applications of Buddhist ethics in daily life, emphasizing the importance of compassion and duty in relationships with others. Furthermore, it reinforces the importance of social responsibility, promoting well-being and harmony in communities. The Sutta Pitaka thus serves as a comprehensive source of philosophical and practical instructions, guiding followers in their spiritual journey and everyday conduct.
Key Points: Key teachings attributed to the Buddha- Practical guidelines for ethical living- Emphasis on social responsibility and compassion
(2) What was the advice given by Buddha to Sigala on how to behave with his parents and teachers ?
Answer: The Buddha advised Sigala on several important ways to behave with his parents and teachers. Firstly, he emphasized the importance of respect and reverence towards them, which includes listening to their guidance and expressing gratitude for their teachings. Secondly, Sigala was instructed to take care of their well-being by providing for their needs, both materially and emotionally. Practicing kindness, consideration, and ensuring that their needs are met reflects the proper conduct towards one’s parents and teachers. Such behavior not only honors them but also fosters a harmonious relationship, reflecting the values of compassion and responsibility that are central to Buddhist teachings.
Key Points: Respect and reverence; Providing for needs; Practicing kindness and consideration; Honoring relationships; Reflecting compassion and responsibility
(3) How did Buddha advise the wealthy householders to be humane and ethical?
[1 Marks]
Answer: The Buddha advised wealthy householders to be humane and ethical by emphasizing the importance of kindness, consideration, and responsibility towards others. He outlined specific guidelines for how householders should treat their servants and employees. Firstly, he suggested that a master should assign work according to their strengths, thereby fostering a supportive work environment. Secondly, he insisted on providing adequate food and wages, ensuring financial stability for them. Additionally, the Buddha highlighted the need for compassion, advising masters to tend to their employees in times of sickness and sharing delicacies to show appreciation. Furthermore, he encouraged granting leave to employees, thereby respecting their personal needs. The Buddha also extended these ethical principles to how householders should treat their family members, including parents, teachers, and wives, promoting respect and affection in all relationships. Thus, his teachings advocate for a humane approach that focuses on the well-being and dignity of all individuals in society.
Key Points: Kindness towards servants and employees - Assign work according to strength - Provide food and wages - Care for the sick - Share delicacies and grant leave - Respect towards family and teachers
Question 2.
Read the source given below and answer the questions that follow:
A language with an enormous range
Al-Biruni described Sanskrit as follows :
If you want to conquer this difficulty (i.e.to learnSanskrit),you will not find it easy,because the language is of an enormous range,both in words and inflections ,something liketheArabic,calling one and the same thing by various names, both original and derivative, and using one and the same word for a variety of subjects, which, in order to be properly understood,must be distinguished from each other by various qualifying epithets.
(1) How did Al-Biruni’s observations about Sanskrit contribute to cross-cultural understanding?
[1 Marks]
Answer: Al-Biruni’s observations about Sanskrit significantly contributed to cross-cultural understanding by highlighting the complexities and nuances of the language that presented challenges to learning and communication. He recognized that Sanskrit, with its extensive vocabulary and diverse inflections, was vastly different from Arabic and Persian. This awareness of linguistic barriers shed light on the difficulties of translating and conveying ideas across cultures. However, Al-Biruni persisted in his studies with the help of Brahmana priests, immersing himself in Sanskrit literature, including the Vedas and Puranas. His commitment to understanding Sanskrit exemplified his dedication to bridging cultural gaps, as he aimed to facilitate discussions on religious matters and provide insights into Indian society for his contemporaries. By engaging with Sanskrit texts, he not only deepened his own understanding but also laid the groundwork for future intercultural dialogue, showcasing the importance of language as a medium for connecting diverse traditions and philosophies.
Key Points: Recognition of linguistic barriers;Persistence in learning Sanskrit;Engagement with Brahmana scholars;Understanding of Indian religious texts;Contribution to intercultural dialogue
(2) In what ways did Al-Biruni compare Sanskrit to Arabic?
[2 Marks]
Answer: Al-Biruni compared Sanskrit to Arabic by highlighting the complexity and richness of both languages. He noted that Sanskrit, like Arabic, possesses an enormous range of vocabulary and inflections. This means that the same word in Sanskrit can refer to various subjects, much like in Arabic, where a single term can have multiple meanings depending on the context. Additionally, he mentioned that both languages require specific qualifying epithets to distinguish between these varied meanings, emphasizing the nuanced nature of both linguistic traditions. This comparison underlines the intricacies in learning and understanding each language as well as the inherent challenges in translating ideas between them.
Key Points: Sanskrit has an enormous range like Arabic; both languages have multiple meanings for the same words; require qualifying epithets for proper understanding.
(3) What motivated Al-Biruni to study Sanskrit?
[1 Marks]
Answer: Al-Biruni was motivated to study Sanskrit primarily to overcome the significant language barrier that existed between himself and the Indian scholars he encountered. He recognized that a deep understanding of Sanskrit was essential for engaging meaningfully with the religious and philosophical texts of India. His aim was to facilitate discussions on religious matters with Hindus and to compile a comprehensive repertoire of information about Indian society. By learning Sanskrit, he hoped to transcend the difficulties that arose from differences in language and culture, thereby enriching his own knowledge and providing valuable insights to his contemporaries in the Arabic-speaking world.
Key Points: Understanding of religious texts - Overcoming language barriers - Aiding discussions with Hindus - Compiling information on Indian society
Question 3.
Read the source given below and answer the questions that follow:
A ryot petition
This is an example of a petition from a ryot of the village of Mirajgaon, Taluka Karjat, to the Collector, Ahmednagar, Deccan Riots Commission:
The sowkars (sahukars)....have of late begun to oppress us.As we cannot earn enough todefray our household expenses,we are actually forced to beg of the to provide us with money ,clothes and grain, which we obtain from them not with out great difficulty, nor with out their compelling us to enter into hard conditions in the bond. Moreover the necessary clothes andgrain are notsold tous at cash rates. Theprices asked from us are generally twenty-five or fifty per cent more than demanded from customer smaking readymoney payments... The produce of our fields is also taken by the sowkars, who at the time of removing it assure us that it will be credited to our account ,but they do not actually make any mention of it in the accounts. They also refuse to pass us any receipts for the
(1) Explain any two features of the Ryotwari system.
[2 Marks]
Answer: The Ryotwari system is a land revenue system where the government directly collects taxes from the individual cultivators or ryots. One key feature of this system is that the revenue is assessed based on the average income from different types of soil, ensuring that the charges are proportionate to the ryot's capacity to pay. This system also requires a resurvey of lands every 30 years, which allows for adjustments in revenue rates according to the changing conditions of agriculture and market prices, making the revenue demands adaptive rather than permanent.
Key Points: direct payment to the government, revenue based on soil income and ryot's capacity, resurvey of land every 30 years
(2) Why was the harvest taken away by the money-lenders?
[1 Marks]
Answer: The harvest was taken away by the money-lenders, or sowkars, due to their oppressive lending practices which forced ryots into a cycle of debt. The petition indicates that ryots were unable to meet their household expenses and were thus compelled to borrow money, grain, and clothes from the sowkars. Furthermore, the money-lenders mismanaged the accounts by assuring ryots that the harvested produce would be credited to their accounts but failing to document these transactions properly, which left the ryots vulnerable and without receipts to prove their claims. Additionally, the sowkars charged excessively high prices for goods, making it even more difficult for the ryots to escape the debt trap, ultimately leading to the appropriation of their harvests as a means to settle their debts.
Key Points: Oppressive lending practices-Forced to borrow due to household expenses-Sowkars mismanaged accounts-No receipts for transactions-High prices exacerbating debt
(3) In what ways did the money-lenders oppress the ryots?
[1 Marks]
Answer: The money-lenders, referred to as sowkars, oppressed the ryots in several significant ways. Firstly, they imposed exorbitant prices on essential goods such as money, clothes, and grain, often charging 25% to 50% more than the cash rates. This practice forced the ryots to beg for support, putting them in a position of dependence. Secondly, the lending process lacked transparency and fairness; the money-lenders took the produce from the fields of the ryots without proper acknowledgment or receipts, leading to a lack of trust and accountability. Additionally, when ryots were unable to repay their debts due to poor harvests or high interest rates, the lenders manipulated the system by entering accrued interest as part of the principal loan amount, worsening the financial burden on the ryots. These oppressive practices created a cycle of debt and despair for the ryots, fundamentally undermining their livelihood and autonomy.
Key Points: Exorbitant pricing of goods - Forced dependence on money-lenders - Lack of transparency in financial transactions - Manipulation of debts and interest accumulation
Question 4.
On the given political outline map of India, locate and label the following with appropriate signs :
(1) Banawali - A matured Harappan Site
Answer: To locate and label Banawali on the political outline map of India, first identify its geographical position, which is in the state of Haryana. Using a suitable symbol, such as a dot or star, place it on the map. Ensure to provide a label reading 'Banawali' next to the symbol to indicate the site. Banawali is significant as it represents a matured Harappan site, indicating advanced urban planning and significant agrarian practices in the region during the Harappan phase. Its identification adds to our understanding of the distribution of Harappan culture across North India.
Key Points: Location in Haryana- significance as a matured Harappan site- indication of advanced urban planning
(2) Bharhut - A Buddhist Site
Answer: Bharhut is a prominent Buddhist site located in the present-day state of Madhya Pradesh, India. It is known for its ancient stupas and intricate carvings that reflect the artistic heritage of Buddhism in India. To accurately locate Bharhut on the map, it should be indicated near the eastern border of Madhya Pradesh, approximately 45 kilometers southeast of Satna. Appropriate symbols could include a stupa icon or a star to mark its significance as an archaeological site. The site is famous for its sculptural panels depicting Jataka tales and other Buddhist motifs, representing the rich history and culture of Buddhism in ancient India.
Key Points: Location in Madhya Pradesh-Importance of Buddhist heritage-Significance of carvings and stupas
(3) On the same map two places have been marked as A and B, which are the centres of Indian National Movement. Identify them and write their correct names on the lines drawn near them.
Answer: The two centres of the Indian National Movement marked on the map as A and B are: A - 'Gandhi Nagar' (Ahmedabad) and B - 'Calcutta' (Kolkata). These cities played significant roles in the Indian struggle for independence, with Ahmedabad being the site of notable movements like the Dandi March led by Mahatma Gandhi and Calcutta being a hub for political agitation and events like the Quit India Movement.
Key Points: A - Gandhi Nagar (Ahmedabad)-B - Calcutta (Kolkata)-Significance of both cities in Indian National Movement
(4) Delhi – Territory under Mughal’s control
Answer: Delhi was a significant territory under the control of the Mughals. It served as an important political and cultural center during the Mughal Empire. When marking Delhi on the map, it should be labeled clearly, indicating its importance in the historical context of the Mughal reign. The Mughal influence in Delhi was reflected in its architecture, governance, and urban planning, making it a crucial part of their empire.
Key Points: Significance of Delhi in Mughal Empire - Historical importance and cultural center - Urban planning and architecture
(5) Agra – Territory under Mughal’s control
Answer: To locate and label Agra on the political outline map of India, first identify its position in the northern part of India. Agra is situated in the state of Uttar Pradesh, near the banks of the Yamuna River. Use a distinguishable symbol, such as a star or dot, to mark Agra clearly on the map. This city was a prominent center during the Mughal Empire, serving as the capital under several Mughal rulers, most notably Akbar. It is also known for the iconic Taj Mahal, which symbolizes the architectural achievements of the Mughal period.
Key Points: Location in northern India-Uttar Pradesh-Mughal capital-importance-Taj Mahal
(6) Mention any two Harappan Site.
Answer: Two significant Harappan sites include Mohenjodaro and Harappa. Mohenjodaro, located in present-day Pakistan, is renowned for its advanced urban planning, including a well-organized drainage system and grid layout. Harappa, also in Pakistan, is notable as the first Harappan site to be excavated, revealing important artifacts that demonstrate the civilization's remarkable craftsmanship and trade connections. Both sites illustrate the sophistication of the Harappan civilization and its contributions to early urban development.
Key Points: Mohenjodaro - advanced urban planning, Harappa - first site discovered, significance of Harappan civilization, artifacts and trade connections
(7) Mention any one territory under Mughal’s control.
Answer: One significant territory under Mughal control was the region of Delhi, which served as the empire's capital and a cultural hub during the Mughal era. Delhi was not only important politically but also architecturally, as it housed several magnificent structures built under various Mughal emperors.
Key Points: Delhi - capital of the Mughal Empire; significant political and cultural importance; historical landmarks and architecture.
(8) Mention the name of the Capital of Vijay nagar Empire.
Answer: The capital of the Vijayanagara Empire was Vijayanagara, also known as 'City of Victory'. This city, established in the 14th century, served as the administrative and cultural hub of the empire until it was sacked in 1565.
Key Points: Capital name is Vijayanagara - Founded in the 14th century - Significant cultural and administrative hub - Sacked in 1565
(9) Name any two centres of Indian National Movement.
Answer: Two important centres of the Indian National Movement were Bombay (now Mumbai) and Kolkata (formerly Calcutta). Bombay was significant due to its bustling port and as a hub for political discussions, hosting key events like the Quit India Movement and various meetings of the Indian National Congress. Kolkata played a pivotal role in the Swadeshi Movement, becoming a center for nationalist activities and revolutionary ideas, inspiring many across the nation to rise against British rule.
Key Points: Bombay: hub for political activities; Kolkata: significant for Swadeshi Movement
Section B
Question 5.
Which one of the following is not a true statement regarding Harappan Script?
[1 Marks]
Explanation: The correct answer is 'This script was written from left to right.' This statement is not true because the context indicates that the Harappan script was written from right to left, as evidenced by the spacing noted in seals. All other statements about the script being undeciphered, not being alphabetic, and having between 375 and 400 signs are accurate.
Question 6.
In which of the following states is Sanchi Stupa located?
[1 Marks]
Explanation: The Sanchi Stupa is located in Madhya Pradesh. The context mentions traveling from Delhi to Bhopal and refers explicitly to the Sanchi site as being significant for early Buddhism, confirming its location in Madhya Pradesh.
Question 7.
The practice of ____________ means a man having several wives.
[1 Marks]
Explanation: The correct answer is 'Polygyny.' This term specifically refers to a man having multiple wives, which aligns with the definition provided in the question. The context discusses various marriage practices, including endogamy and exogamy, but makes no mention of a man having several wives, confirming that polygyny is the appropriate term.
Question 8.
[1 Marks]
Arrange the following in chronological order:
I. Rule of Ashoka,
II. Invasion of Alexander,
III. Rule of Gupta dynasty,
IV. Rise of Chalukyas in Karnataka.
Explanation: The correct chronological order is II, I, III, IV. The invasion of Alexander the Great occurred around 327 BCE, followed by the establishment of the Mauryan Empire and the rule of Ashoka around 268-232 BCE. The Gupta dynasty emerged much later, around 320 CE, and the rise of the Chalukyas occurred in Karnataka around the 6th century CE.
Question 9.
[1 Marks]
Identify the medieval globe-trotter with the help of the following information :
Before he set-off for India he made pilgrimage trips to Mecca before1332-33 C.E.
The Delhi Sultan Muhammad Bin Tughlaq made him Qazi or the judge of Delhi.
Explanation: The correct option is Ibn Battuta. He made pilgrimage trips to Mecca before 1332-33 C.E. and was appointed as the qazi or judge of Delhi by Sultan Muhammad Bin Tughlaq, as noted in the context.
Question 10.
Who among the following Sikh Gurus compiled ‘Adi Granth Sahib’?
[1 Marks]
Explanation: The correct answer is Guru Arjun Dev Ji. He was the fifth Guru of the Sikhs and compiled the hymns of Baba Guru Nanak, his four successors, and other saints into the Adi Granth Sahib, the holy scripture of Sikhism.
Question 11.
Choose the correct option regarding Virashaiva tradition:
[1 Marks]
Explanation: The correct option is 'This tradition emerged in Karnataka.' The relevant context states that the Virashaiva tradition originated in Karnataka during the twelfth century and was led by Basavanna. This directly supports the assertion that the tradition emerged in this region.
Question 12.
[1 Marks]
Which Mughal rural society term is correctly matched?
Explanation: The correct answer is Mansabdar - Military-Bureaucrat. The term 'Mansabdar' refers to a military officer or bureaucrat in the Mughal administration, who was responsible for maintaining troops and overseeing their operations. In contrast, 'raiayat' refers specifically to peasants, while 'Mallah' (boatsman) and 'Shroff' (moneylender) do not correctly describe these roles in the rural society of the Mughals.
Question 13.
[1 Marks]
Identify the forest tribe during sixteenth and seventeenth century with the help of following information :
In Assam these Tribal Chiefs became kings.
They rendered military service in exchange of land.
They declared their monopoly on catching wild elephants.
Explanation: The correct answer is the Ahom tribe as they are specifically mentioned in the context as having their paiks who rendered military service in exchange for land. Additionally, it is noted that capturing wild elephants was declared a royal monopoly by the Ahom kings, linking them directly to the details provided.
Question 14.
[1 Marks]
Identify the primary purpose of Britishers to implement Permanent Settlement in Bengal. Choose the best suitable option from the following:
Explanation: The correct answer is 'To provide financial stability to British govt.' The Permanent Settlement was implemented to ensure a fixed revenue collection from zamindars, which aimed to stabilize the British government's financial income in Bengal, especially during a time when the rural economy was in crisis.
Question 15.
Leader of the 1857 revolt from Bihar:
[1 Marks]
Explanation: Kunwar Singh, a local zamindar in Arrah, Bihar, emerged as a prominent leader in the 1857 revolt. The context specifically mentions him taking on leadership during the uprising in Bihar, making him the correct answer.
Question 16.
[1 Marks]
Who among the following described the following line for Kingdom of Awadh ? “A cherry that will fall into our mouth one day.”
Explanation: The correct answer is Lord Dalhousie. He described the kingdom of Awadh as 'a cherry that will drop into our mouth one day' in 1851, indicating his intention to annex the kingdom, which was carried out five years later in 1856.
Question 17.
Where did the 1857 mutiny begin on 10th May?
[1 Marks]
Explanation: The 1857 mutiny began in Meerut Cantt, as the sepoys in the cantonment broke out in mutiny late in the afternoon of 10 May 1857. This event marked the start of a larger uprising that spread rapidly to other areas.
Question 18.
[1 Marks]
Who among the following moved the resolution in the Constituent Assembly that the Indian National Flag be horizontal tricolour of saffron, white and dark green in equal proportions with a wheel in navy blue in the centre?
Explanation: The correct answer is Jawaharlal Nehru. According to the provided context, it was Nehru who moved the resolution proposing the design of the National Flag, which included a horizontal tricolour of saffron, white, and dark green with a navy blue wheel at the center.
Question 19.
[1 Marks]
Identify the member of Constituent Assembly with the help of information given below :
(i) He was a member of drafting committee of constitution.
(ii) He was a lawyer.
(iii) He gave crucial inputs in drafting of constitution.
(iv) He belonged to Madras(Chennai).
Explanation: The correct answer is Alladi Krishnaswami Ayyar, as he was a lawyer from Madras and was a member of the drafting committee of the Constitution, providing crucial inputs in its formulation.
Question 20.
[1 Marks]
Which of the following movements was broadened by ‘Lal-Bal-Pal’ and conveyeditastheall-India character of their struggle from1905-1907? 1
Explanation: The correct answer is 'Swadeshi Movement'. The Lal-Bal-Pal trio, consisting of leaders like Bal Gangadhar Tilak, Bipin Chandra Pal, and Lala Lajpat Rai, were instrumental in expanding the Swadeshi Movement across India from 1905 to 1907, thereby establishing its all-India character.
Section C
Question 21.
Explain the strategies adopted by Harappans to procure raw material for their craft production.
[3 Marks]
Answer: The Harappans employed various strategies to procure raw materials for their craft production. Firstly, they established settlements in regions rich in specific resources, such as Nageshwar and Balakot for shell collection. They also utilized trade routes to access materials not found locally, such as metals from Rajasthan and stones from distant sources. Evidence of expeditions suggests organized efforts to obtain essential items like copper from the Khetri region. Additionally, transport mechanisms, including terracotta models of bullock carts, indicate complex logistics for moving goods across land. Overall, their diverse sourcing methods showcased sophisticated understanding and management of resources.
Question 22.
Explain how archaeologists have been able to reconstruct dietary practices of the Harappans.
[3 Marks]
Answer: Archaeologists have reconstructed the dietary practices of the Harappans through various types of archaeological evidence, particularly through the analysis of charred grains, seeds, and animal remains found at excavation sites. Archaeo-botanists specialize in studying ancient plant remains, revealing that the Harappans cultivated a diversity of crops such as wheat, barley, lentil, chickpea, sesame, and millets, with rice being comparatively rare. Additionally, the discovery of animal bones—including those of cattle, goats, sheep, buffalo, and pigs—provides insight into the animal husbandry practices of the time. Identifying tools such as grinding stones, which were necessary for food processing, further informs our understanding of their culinary practices. Overall, the combination of plant and animal remains, alongside tools used for food preparation, allows archaeologists to piece together a comprehensive picture of the Harappan diet.
Question 23.
How was patriliny system important among the elite families from sixth century BCE onwards? Explain with examples.
[3 Marks]
Answer: The patriliny system was crucial among elite families from the sixth century BCE, as it ensured the continuity of wealth and power within male lineage. Sons inherited the resources and positions of authority from their fathers, such as kingship and property, thus reinforcing their status. For example, royal dynasties often emphasized patriliny by ensuring that the throne was passed down to sons. This system also influenced social norms where daughters married into other families, thereby strengthening alliances. While exceptions existed, such as women like Prabhavati Gupta, patriliny predominantly shaped elite family dynamics.
Question 24.
“Baba Guru Nanak Dev ji advocated a form of ‘Nirguna Bhakti’. Substantiate the statement.
[3 Marks]
Answer: Baba Guru Nanak Dev ji, the founder of Sikhism, emphasized a form of ‘Nirguna Bhakti’, which is the worship of an abstract, formless God rather than deities with specific forms. His teachings, expressed through hymns known as ‘shabad’, rejected external rituals and practices prevalent in both Hinduism and Islam, such as sacrifices, idol worship, and ritual baths. For him, the true connection to the Divine was through remembering the Divine Name, promoting a personal and direct relationship with God. By advocating Nirguna Bhakti, Baba Guru Nanak promoted an inclusive approach to spirituality that transcended religious boundaries. He aimed to connect seekers to the formless Absolute or ‘Rab’, encouraging a universal devotion that sought to unify rather than divide humanity.
Question 25.
“Ain-i-Akbari is considered a major source for the agrarian history of the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries.” Examine the statement.
[3 Marks]
Answer: The Ain-i-Akbari, authored by Abu'l Fazl, is a crucial chronicle that offers insights into the agrarian structure of the Mughal Empire during the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries. This text systematically documented the state’s efforts in agriculture, revenue collection, and regulations governing the relationship between the state and zamindars. Despite its authoritative perspective, where information about peasants is viewed from the top, it serves as a key source for understanding rural dynamics, customs, and administrative practices of the time. The Ain highlights the state’s organizing frameworks, showcasing how they managed agricultural productivity while also reflecting Akbar’s vision of social harmony under a powerful ruling class, though it is essential to recognize it lacks the voice of the common peasant.
Question 26.
Under what circumstances did Bahadur Shah Zafar bless the rebellion of 1857? Explain.
[3 Marks]
Answer: Bahadur Shah Zafar initially reacted with horror to the rebellion of 1857, expressing rejection rather than support for the sepoys' uprising. However, as the situation escalated and rebels entered the Mughal court, he realized he had limited options and agreed to be a nominal leader of the revolt. This decision came after the sepoys from Meerut urged him to assume leadership, as they sought legitimacy for their cause. His blessing gave a symbolic endorsement to the rebellion, allowing it to gain traction and unite disparate groups under a common leadership, transcending religious divides.
Question 27.
Explain any three sources to know about the Revolt of 1857.
[3 Marks]
Answer: To understand the Revolt of 1857, we can refer to several key sources. Firstly, official British records provide insight into the perspectives and actions of British officials during the revolt. However, these records are limited in reflecting the desires of the rebels. Secondly, rebel proclamations and letters from leaders convey the motivations and sentiments behind the uprising, offering a glimpse into the thoughts and aims of the insurgents. Lastly, art and literature from the period, including poems and narratives, have immortalized the events and portrayed the heroes of the revolt, shaping public memory and historical interpretation. These sources combined help paint a comprehensive picture of this significant event in Indian history.
Question 28.
“The draft constitution provided for three lists of subjects on the issue of federalism.” Explain the statement with examples.
[3 Marks]
Answer: The draft constitution of India established a federal structure through three distinct lists of subjects: Union, State, and Concurrent. The Union List includes subjects exclusively under the jurisdiction of the Central Government, like defense, foreign affairs, and atomic energy, ensuring a unified national policy. The State List contains subjects such as police, public health, and agriculture, allowing states to govern local matters. The Concurrent List comprises subjects like education and marriage, where both levels of government can legislate. This framework was designed to maintain a strong central authority while ensuring state rights, balancing autonomy with national interests.
Section D
Question 29.
‘The sixth century BCE was a period of emergence of early states, empires and diverse thoughts in the early Indian history.’ Justify the statement.
[8 Marks]
Answer: The sixth century BCE marked a pivotal transformation in early Indian history, characterized by the rise of early states and empires. This era witnessed the inception of the mahajanapadas, the foremost among which included Vajji, Magadha, Koshala, and others. The agrarian society evolved alongside the growth of urban centers facilitated by iron technology and coinage, contributing to economic sophistication. Additionally, this period fostered significant philosophical development, with the emergence of Buddhism and Jainism, driven by thinkers like Gautama Buddha and Mahavira, who sought to address existential questions. Collectively, these developments reflect the socio-political and intellectual dynamism of the sixth century BCE, establishing it as a cornerstone in the tapestry of Indian history.
Question 30.
‘Although inscriptions provide strong evidence for reconstructing history, there are limitations to these evidences.’ Justify the statement.
[8 Marks]
Answer: Inscriptions are crucial for understanding historical contexts, yet they come with significant limitations. Firstly, the physical condition of inscriptions can impede their legibility; many inscriptions are faded, eroded, or otherwise damaged, making accurate reconstruction difficult. In some cases, letters may be missing, leading to ambiguities in meaning. Additionally, the interpretive challenges arise due to the specific language or terminology that may have varied across regions and periods. Historians often grapple with distinguishing truth from exaggeration in these texts, which can reflect bias. Furthermore, despite numerous discoveries, many inscriptions remain undeciphered or undocumented, and countless more may have been lost to time. Thus, while inscriptions are invaluable, their limitations necessitate cautious and nuanced interpretations in historical reconstruction.
Question 31.
Examine the main reasons for the rise and decline of the Vijayanagara empire.
[8 Marks]
Answer: The rise of the Vijayanagara Empire can be attributed to several key factors. Founded by Harihara and Bukka in 1336, it capitalized on the political fragmentation in South India after the fall of the Delhi Sultanate. The Empire expanded rapidly under capable rulers like Krishnadeva Raya, who employed military prowess and strategic alliances, effectively unifying diverse linguistic and religious groups under a single rule. The agrarian economy flourished, supported by irrigation projects and temple maintenance that fostered local loyalty. However, the decline began after Krishnadeva Raya's death in 1529, as succession issues led to power struggles. The increased independence of military chiefs, the Nayakas, and conflicts with the Deccan Sultanates weakened central authority. The catastrophic defeat at the Battle of Talikota in 1565 marked a significant turning point, leading to the sacking of the empire’s capital and the eventual fragmentation of its territories. By the end of the 17th century, the once-mighty Vijayanagara Empire had lost its prominence, succumbing to internal strife and external pressures. The complexities of identity among the empire’s diverse population also played a role in its decline, as factionalism undermined unified governance.
Question 32.
Examine the distinctive aspects of the fortification of the Vijayanagara empire.
[8 Marks]
Answer: The fortifications of the Vijayanagara Empire represent a meticulous blend of defense and urban planning, reflecting its rulers' strategic foresight. Unlike conventional practices of merely creating fortress structures, the Vijayanagara rulers adopted a comprehensive approach to fortification. They fortified not just the royal center but also the expansive agricultural regions, indicating an innovative strategy to protect their economic base. The empire featured a multi-tiered defense system, with three concentric walls surrounding urban complexes, establishing robust barriers against invasions. Architectural elements, such as grand gateways and aqueducts, showcased engineering prowess alongside defensive functionalities. The prominent gopurams, or temple towers, exemplified the cultural richness intertwined with military architecture. These fortifications not only safeguarded the empire against external threats but also symbolized the rulers' power and wealth, solidifying their imperial culture. The urban layout designed by the empire reflected careful planning, with significant monuments and temple complexes integrated into the defensive network, highlighting the interdependence of security, economy, and culture in the Vijayanagara Empire. Thus, the fortifications of Vijayanagara were not only military installations but also vital components of its identity, blending aesthetics, religion, and strength effectively.
Question 33.
Explain the reasons behind Gandhiji’s decision to initiate the Salt Satyagraha and why this movement became a significant event.
[8 Marks]
Answer: Gandhiji’s decision to initiate the Salt Satyagraha was rooted in multiple strategic and symbolic reasons. Primarily, the British salt monopoly imposed restrictions on the production and sale of salt, a commodity essential for every Indian household, thus making it an apt symbol of protest. By targeting this law, Gandhiji aimed to unite the Indian populace against the oppressive British rule, as the salt issue affected everyone. He announced the march with a clear intent to challenge the authority of the British government publicly. Additionally, the march from Sabarmati to the sea highlighted the nonviolent spirit of the movement, attracting widespread participation and media attention. The Salt Satyagraha not only showcased Gandhiji's strategy of peaceful resistance but was also pivotal because it marked a significant turning point in the Indian independence struggle, galvanizing national consciousness and inspiring collective action. The simple act of making salt became a powerful statement against colonial oppression, making the Salt Satyagraha one of the most significant events in the history of the Indian freedom movement.
Question 34.
Explain why the ‘Quit India Movement’ was considered a mass movement.
[8 Marks]
Answer: The ‘Quit India Movement’, launched by Mahatma Gandhi in August 1942, is considered a mass movement due to its broad participation across different sections of Indian society. Following the failure of the Cripps Mission, Gandhi called for immediate independence, which resonated with the aspirations of millions of Indians. Despite Gandhi’s arrest, the movement gained momentum as students, workers, and peasants mobilized on a large scale. Ordinary citizens participated in strikes, demonstrations, and acts of civil disobedience, indicating widespread discontent with British rule. The movement particularly engaged the youth, with many abandoning their studies to join protests. This unprecedented surge in popular action created a sense of national unity among diverse communities, including Hindus and Muslims, who collectively sought to end colonial dominance. Thus, the Quit India Movement was not merely an elite-driven campaign but a grassroots mobilization involving hundreds of thousands of Indians united in their demand for freedom.
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