icse syllabus for class 9 history

ICSE Solutions for Class 9 History and Civics – Elections and the Election Commission

ICSE SolutionsSelina ICSE SolutionsML Aggarwal Solutions

EXERCISES

Question 1.
What is meant by Elections? Mention any one principles according to which elections are conducted in a democracy.
Answer:
An election is an organised process in which people vote to choose the persons who shall represent them in Parliament or the State Legislature. Elections are also held to elect those persons who hold a constitutional position, such as the President or the Vice-President of India.
Elections in a democracy are conducted according to the following principles:

1. Universal Adult Franchise,
2. The Secret Ballot, and  Electoral choice offered by competition between political parties or between many candidates.

Question 2.
Who can become a Voter in India?
Answer:
The Constitution of India permits every person, who is a Citizen of India and who is not less than eighteen years of age and is not otherwise disqualified under any law’, is eligible to become a Voter in India.

Question 3.
What is the significance of Elections in a democracy? OR Mention any one need for Elections.
Answer:
Elections are the lifeline of democracy. We need elections for the following reasons:

1. It is the best way by which representatives of the people can be chosen and sent to legislatures.
2. When there is a contest between different candidates for the same position, it gives the voters a greater choice of selection and makes it easy to elect candidates by casting their vote.
3. Elections help the people to put a check on the activities of the government because political parties know that they will be ousted from power if they do not perform according to the expectations of the people.
4. By contesting elections, either as members of a political party or as an independent candidate, people get a chance to form the government and make laws and policies for the welfare of their people and their country.

Question 4.
What is a General Election?
Answer:
The Lok Sabha election is said to be a General Election.

Question 5.
What is a By-Election?
Answer:
A By-Election is held to choose a member of the Lok Sabha or that the State legislature “to replace a previous member who has resigned suddenly or died.”

Question 6.
What is meant by Midterm-Election?
Answer:
A midterm-poll that is held in consequence to the dissolution of the Lok Sabha or the State Assembly before its term is over is called as Midterm-Election.

Question 7.
What is meant by Direct Election?
Answer:
The election in which the voters directly choose their representatives to the legislatures is known as Direct Election.

Question 8.
What is Indirect Election?
Answer:
The election in which the voters do not directly elect their representatives to the legislatures or Head of State, but elect an intermediate body which finally proceeds to elect the representative or the President, such an election is called as Indirect Election.

Question 9.
Name two bodies whose members are elected by Indirect Election.
Answer:
The Rajya Sabha and Vidhan Parishad (State Legislative Council) are the two bodies, whose members are elected by Indirect Election.

Question 10.
Mention one advantage and one disadvantage of Direct Election.
Answer:
Advantage of Direct Election: It stimulates the interest of the people in elections.
Disadvantage of Direct Election: The masses, under the influence of emotions or religious leaders, may reject someone who is rational and is able to think clearly.

Question 11.
Mention one main advantage and one disadvantage of Indirect Election.
Answer:
Advantage of Indirect Election: It reduces the heat of the election campaign.
Disadvantage of Indirect Election: It may lead to horsetrading or evil practices such as bribery, because the final electors are very few in number.

Question 12.
Who appoints the Chief Election Commissioner and other Commissioners?
Answer:
The President appoints the Chief Election Commissioner and other Commissioners.

Question 13.
Who acts as the Chairman of the Election Commission?
Answer:
The Chief Election Commissioner acts as the Chairman of the Election Commission.

Question 14.
What is the term of office of the Chief Election Commissioner?
Answer:
The term of office of the Chief Election Commissioner is six years.

Question 15.
The Chief Election Commissioner be removed from his office?
Answer:
The Chief Election Commissioner can be removed in the manner as a judge of the Supreme Court.

Question 16.
Mention any two powers (functions) of the Election Commission.
Answer:
Two powers (functions) of the Election Commission are:

1. Preparation of the Electoral Rolls.
2. Conduct of Elections.

Question 17.
What is meant by a Single-Member Constituency?
Answer:
A Single-Member Constituency is one, which returns only one representative from each area.

Question 18.
What is a Multi-Member Constituency?
Answer:
A Multi-Member Constituency is one, which elects more than one representative.

Question 19.
What is meant by a Reserve Constituency?
Answer:
It was the Scheme of Communal Electorates that falls under Indian Councils Act of 1909 introduced by the British Government. The Act provided for separate representation of the Muslim Community at the Center as well as in Provincial Legislatures. The Government of India Act, 1919 extended this privilege to the minorities such as the Sikhs, the Anglo-Indians, Europeans and the Indian Christians. In due course of time, the Constitution of India abolished Communal Electorates.

Question 20.
Mention any two stages in the election process before the Election Campaign begins.
Answer:
Two stages in the election process before the Election Campaign are:

1. Nomination of Candidates
2. Scrutiny of Nominations.

Question 21.
Mention any two techniques of Election Campaign.
Answer:
The two techniques of Election Campaign are:

1. Public meetings and rallies are organised.
2. The candidates do door-to-door canvassing.

Question 22.
What is an Election Manifesto? OR What is the use of an Election Manifesto?
Answer:
An Election Manifesto is a formal statement of the programme and objectives of a political party. The Manifesto contains programmers and promises for all sections of the society.

Question 23.
What is Secret Ballot?
Answer:
‘Secret Ballot’ means that each voter elects the candidates of his choice and the ballot paper is not shown to any one else.

Question 24.
Mention any two reasons why a Ballot Paper becomes invalid.
Answer:
A ballot paper becomes invalid when

1.  It is not marked at all.
2.  The voter indicates his choice for more than one candidate.

Question 25.
What is the maximum limit of the expenses for a Parliamentary contest?
Answer:
The maximum limit of the expenses for a Parliamentary contest amounts at Rs. 15 lacs.

Question 26.
Mention any two measures that ensure that elections are free and fair in India.
Answer:
The two measures that ensure free and fair elections in India are:

1. The Commission sends central observers to sensitive constituencies.
2. The Commission prescribes the code of conduct for the election campaigns.

Question 27.
Mention any one measure that has been taken to discourage non-serious candidates from jumping into the election fray.
Answer:
For election to the Lok Sabha the Security Deposit was raised in 1996 from Rs. 500 to Rs. 10,000 for the general candidates and from Rs. 250 to Rs. 5,000 for candidates belonging to SCs and STs. For Assembly elections it was raised from Rs. 250 to Rs. 5,000 for the general candidates and from Rs. 125 to Rs. 2,500 for candidates belonging to SCs and STs. The security deposit of such candidates as have obtained less than one-sixth of the total number of votes is forfeited.

STRUCTURED QUESTIONS

Question 1.
With reference to the composition of the Election Commission, explain the following:
(a) Appointment of the Chief Election Commissioner and other Commissioners.
(b) Their Terms of Office and Conditions of Service.
Answer:
Appointment of the Chief Election Commissioner and other Commissioners:
(a) The Chief Election Commissioner and other Commissioners are appointed by the President.
(b) Terms of Office and Conditions of Service of the Chief Election Commissioner and other Commissioners.

1. The Chief Election Commissioner or an Election Commissioner shall hold office for a term of six years. However, if the Chief Election Commissioner or an Election Commissioner has attained the age of 65 years, he shall vacate office on the date on which he attains the said age.
2. The Chief Election Commissioner and other Commissioners are paid a salary equal to the salary of a judge of the Supreme Court e., Rs. 30,000 per month. On retirement, they are entitled to a pension.
3. If the Chief Election Commissioner and other Election Commissioners differ in opinion on any matter, such matter shall be decided according to the opinion of the majority.

Question 2.
What measures have been taken to ensure Independence of Election Commission?
Answer:
The Election Commission’s independence is secured by the following provisions:

1. The Chief Election Commissioner shall not be removed from office except in like manner as a judge of the Supreme Court. The other commissioners can not be removed from office except on the recommendation of the Chief Election Commissioner.
2. Their conditions of service shall not be varied to their disadvantage after their appointment.
3. It is the duty of the President or the Governor of a State to make available to the Commission such staff as may be necessary for the conduct of elections.

Question 3.
With reference to the powers and functions of the Election Commission, discuss the following:
(a) Preparation of the Electoral Roll
(b) Recognition of Political Parties
(c) Allotment of Symbols
Answer:
The given headlines with reference to the powers and functions of the Election commission are discussed below:
(a) Preparation of the Electoral Roll:
The Constitution lays down that there shall be one ‘General Electoral Roll’ for every territorial constituency. The Lok Sabha or any of the Assemblies may be dissolved before its terms of five years has expired. Therefore, the electoral rolls will have to be kept up-to-date all the time so that the new election may take place without any difficulty.

(b) Recognition of Political Parties: The Election Commission grants recognition to the political parties for Election purposes. These national parties are Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP), Indian National Congress (INC) (Cong. I), the CPI (M), the Communist Party of India (CPI), Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) and Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP).

(c) Allotment of Symbols:
The National and State level parties can have a reserved symbol for all the candidates nominated by them. The independent candidates, can select any symbol out of a list of ‘Free Symbols’. The purpose behind allotting symbols is that illiterate masses can not read the names of the candidates of their parties. It is easy for them to identify the symbols for electing candidates of their choice. Secondly ‘reserved symbols’ become so popular that the parties do not have to do canvassing for their candidates.

Question 4.
Elections are the barometer of democracy. In this context mention any four measures that have been taken to ensure free and fair elections in India ?
Answer:
In context of elections as the barometer of democracy, the given questions are answered as follows:

To ensure free and fair elections in India, many measures have been taken by the Election Commission:

1. The Commission sends central observers to sensitive constituencies;
2.  The Commission prescribes the code of conduct for the election campaigns;
3. The Commission creates conditions for free and fair poll. Recent amendments to the Representation of the People Act provide severe punishment for booth-capturing.

Question 5.
With reference to powers and functions of the Election Commission, discuss the following:
(a) Conduct of Elections
(b) Ensuring Free and Fair Elections
Answer:
(a) Conduct of Elections:
The Commission conducts all elections to Parliament and the State Legislature. Besides, it supervises and directs elections to the offices of the President and Vice-President Exact dates or polls and finalised after consultations with the Election Commission.
(b) Ensuring Free and Fair Elections:
The Commission takes the following measures to ensure free and fair elections:

1. The Commission sends central observers to sensitive constituencies.
2. The Commission prescribes the code of conduct for the election campaigns.
3. The Commission creates conditions for a free and fair poll. Recent amendments to the Representation of the People Act provide severe punishment for booth-capturing.

Additional Questions

Short Answer Questions.

Question 1.
What is meant by an election ?
Answer:
Election is a procedure whereby persons are chosen, by voting, to represent the voters for running the government.

Question 2.
Under which method of elections are the elections to Lok Sabha held ?
Answer:
The elections to Lok Sabha are held directly. People of India directly elect their representatives to the Lok Sabha.

Question 3.
Name the system of election to the office of the President of India.
Answer:
The system of election to the office of the President of India is Indirect.

Question 4.
What is meant by a by-election ?
Answer:
When a seat held by any member of the Legislative Assembly in the Centre or States falls vacant due to death or resignation of the member, before completion of the term, to fill up this vacancy the election is called By-Election.

Question 5.
Who allots the symbols to political parties ?
Answer:
Election Commission allots the symbols to political parties.

Question 6.
When is a mid-term election held ?
Answer:
This type of election is held when a State Legislative Assembly or the Lok Sabha is dissolved before the completion of its full term (5 years).

Question 7.
Who appoints the Election Commissioners ?
Answer:
The Election Commissioners are appointed by the President of India.

Question 8.
What is the normal term of the Chief Election Commissioner and other Commissioners ?
Answer:
The normal term is of 6 years, but the retirement age is 65.

Question 9.
Name two important powers and functions of the Election Commission.
Answer:
The Election Commission has given wide range of power as: Representation of the People (Amendment) Act, 1996. The functions and power of the Election Commission with respect to the conduct of elections to are given below:

1. Preparation of Electoral Rolls and Photo Identity Cards.
2. Registration and Recognition of Political Parties.
3. Allotment of Symbols etc.

Question 10.
Name one advisory function of the Election Compassion.
Answer:
The Election Commission also advises the President or the Governors of the State in respect of Electoral matters.

Question 11.
What is known as the Voters List ? Who prepares it ?
Answer:
The Commission identifies eligible voters in each constituency and prepares the list of eligible voters. This is called ‘Voters List’.

Question 12.
What is the need for elections ?
Answer:
Elections are the lifeline of democracy. We need elections for the following reasons:

1. It is the best way by which representatives of the people can be chosen and sent to legislatures.
2. When there is a contest between different candidates for the same position, it gives the voters a greater choice of selection and makes it easy to elect candidates by casting their vote.
3. Elections help the people to put a check on the activities of the government because political parties know that they will be ousted from power if they do not perform according to the expectations of the people.
4. By contesting elections, either as members of a political party or as an independent candidate, people get a chance to form the government and make laws and policies for the welfare of their people and their country.

Question 13.
Define the term Constituency. Name the types of constituencies.
Answer:
The division of country or a State into a number of representative areas is called constituencies. So, a constituency is a fixed area with a body of voters or residents with voting rights. The types of constituencies are the Parliamentary Constituency and the Assembly Constituency.

Question 14.
What is the main purpose of allotting symbols to political parties ?
Answer:
Political parties are allotted reserved common symbols, while the independent candidates may select them  from the list of free symbols. Main purpose is that these symbols may be easily recognized by illiterate people.

Question 15.
Mention two functions of the Returning Officer.
Answer:
The Returning officer has to scrutinise the nomination papers and has authority to reject the nomination papers.

Question 16.
What is meant by the term ‘election by secret ballot’ ?
Answer:
This means that the voter chooses the candidates of his choice secretly.

Question 17.
What is called the ‘simple majority’ ?
Answer:
The person who gets ‘the highest number of votes’ or the ‘simple majority’ is declared the winner.

Question 18.
When is a vote declared invalid and not counted ?
Answer:
The ballot paper which is not properly stamped or bears more than one stamp is declared invalid.

Question 19.
What is meant by election petition ?
Answer:
In case any defeated candidate has a reasonable doubt about rigging of elections, voter or a defeated candidate can file a petition in the court of law.

Question 20.
When is repoll at a booth held ?
Answer:
The Election Commission orders are poll within two or three days after the first polling, in case there is a threat to voters security or other genuine reasons prevailing.

Question 21.
State one limitation of democracy in respect of elections.
Answer:
One limitation of democracy in respect of elections is the ‘Proportionate Representation’ i.e. a system in which parties in an election gain seats in proportion to the number of votes cast for them.

Question 22.
Name one important duty of an enlightened electorate.
Answer:
An enlightened electorate works out the election procedure keeping in view all the basic rules fixed for the election, in a disciplined manner with honesty and peace.

Question 23.
What is meant by Elections? Mention any one principles according to which elections are conducted in a democracy.
Answer:
An election is an organised process in which people vote to choose the persons who shall represent them in Parliament or the State Legislature. Elections are also held to elect those persons who hold a constitutional position, such as the President or the Vice-President of India.
Elections in a democracy are conducted according to the following principles:

1. Universal Adult Franchise,
2.  The Secret Ballot, and
3. Electoral choice offered by competition between political parties or between many candidates.

Question 24.
Who can become a Voter in India?
Answer:
The Constitution of India permits every person, who is a Citizen of India and who is not less than eighteen years of age and is not otherwise disqualified under any law, is eligible to become a Voter in India.

Question 25.
Mention any one advantage of Elections.
Answer:
People Elect their Rulers:
It is through elections that Parliament and the State legislatures are constituted. The party or the parties which get the verdict in their favor form the government. The elected members of Parliament and State Legislative Assemblies elect the President of India. The Prime Minister and other ministers are appointed by the President. They are held responsible to the Lok Sabha. Thus it is through elections that various government structures are established and made functional.

Question 26.
What is a General Election?
Answer:
The Lok Sabha election is said to be a General Election.

Question 27.
What is a By-Election?
Answer:
A By-Election is held to choose a member of the Lok Sabha or that the State legislature “to replace a previous member who has resigned suddenly or died.”

Question 28.
What is meant by Midterm-Election?
Answer:
A midterm-poll that is held in consequence to the dissolution of the Lok Sabha or the State Assembly before its term is over is called as Midterm-Election.

Question 29.
What is meant by Direct Election?
Answer:
The election in which the voters directly choose their representatives to the legislatures is know as Direct Election.

Question 30.
What is Indirect Election?
Answer:
The election in which the voters do not directly elect their representatives to the legislatures or Head of State, but elect an intermediate body which finally proceeds to elect the representative or the President, such an election is called as Indirect Election.

Question 31.
Name two bodies whose members are elected by Indirect Election.
Answer:
The Rajya Sabha and Vidhan Parishad (State Legislative Council) are the two bodies, whose members are elected by Indirect Election.

Question 32.
Mention one advantage and one disadvantage of Direct Election.
Answer:
Advantage of Direct Election: It stimulates the interest of the people in elections.
Disadvantage of Direct Election: The masses, under the influence of emotions or religious leaders, may reject someone who is rational and is able to think clearly.

Question 33.
Mention one main advantage and one disadvantage of Indirect Election.
Answer:
Advantage of Indirect Election: It reduces the heat of the election campaign.
Disadvantage of Indirect Election: It may lead to horse ­trading or evil practices such as bribery, because the final electors are very few in number.

Question 34.
What is meant by a Single-Member Constituency?
Answer:
A Single-Member Constituency is one, which returns only one representative from each area.

Question 35.
What is a Multip-Member Constituency?
Answer:
A Multi-Member Constituency is one, which elects more than one representative.

Question 36.
What is meant by a Reserve Constituency?
Answer:
It was the Scheme of Communal Electorates that falls under Indian Councils Act of 1909 introduced by the British Government. The Act provided for separate representation of the Muslim Community at the Centre as well as in Provincial Legislatures. The Government of India Act, 1919 extended this privilege to the minorities such as the Sikhs, the Anglo- Indians, Europeans and the Indian Christians. In due course of time, the Constitution of India abolished Communal Electorates.

Question 37.
Who appoints the Chief Election Commissioner and other Commissioners?
Answer:
The President appoints the Chief Election Commissioner and other Commissioners.

Question 38.
Who acts as the Chairman of the Election Commission?
Answer:
The Chief Election Commissioner acts as the Chairman of the Election Commission.

Question 39.
What is the term of office of the Chief Election Commissioner?
Answer:
The term of office of the Chief Election Commissioner is six years.

Question 40.
How can the Chief Election Commissioner be removed from his office?
Answer:
The Chief Election Commissioner can be removed in the manner as a judge of the Supreme Court.

Question 41.
Mention any two powers (functions) of the Election Commission.
Answer:
Two powers (functions) of the Election Commission are:

1. Preparation of the Electoral Rolls.
2. Conduct of Elections.

Question 42.
Mention any two stages in the election process before the Election Campaign begins.
Answer:
Two stages in the election process before the Election Campaign are:

1.  Nomination of Candidates
2. Scrutiny of Nominations.

Question 43.
Mention any two techniquest of Election Campaign.
Answer:
The two techniques of Election Campaign are:

1. Public meetings and rallies are organised.
2. The candidates do door-to-door canvassing.

Question 44.
What is an Election Manifesto? OR What is the use of an Election Manifesto?
Answer:
An Election Manifesto is a formal statement of the programmer and objectives of a political party. The Manifesto contains programmers and promises for all sections of the society.

Question 45.
Mention any two reasons why a Ballot Paper becomes invalid.
Answer:
A ballot paper becomes invalid when

1. It is not marked at all.
2. The voter indicates his choice for more than one candidate.

Question 46.
What is the maximum limit of the expenses for a Parliamentary contest?
Answer:
The maximum limit of the expenses for a Parliamentary contest amounts at Rs. 15 lacs.

Question 47.
Mention any two measures that ensure that elections are free and fair in India.
Answer:
The two measures that ensure free and fair elections in India are:

1. The Commission sends central observers to sensitive constituencies.
2. The Commission prescribes the code of conduct for the election campaigns.

Question 48.
Mention any one measure that has been taken to discourage non-serious candidates from jumping into the election fray.
Answer:
For election to the Lok Sabha the Security Deposit was raised in 1996 from Rs. 500 to Rs. 10,000 for the general candidates and from Rs. 250 to Rs. 5,000 for candidates belonging to SCs and STs. For Assembly elections it was raised from Rs. 250 to Rs. 5,000 for the general candidates and from Rs. 125 to Rs. 2,500 for candidates belonging to SCs and STs. The security deposit of such candidates as have obtained less than one- sixth of the total number of votes is forfeited.

II. Structured Questions:
Question 1.
With reference to Democracy and Elections, answer the following questions:
(a) Distinguish between two types of elections.
(b) What type of elections are direct and what type are indirect in a Parliamentary Democracy ?
(c) How are elections of the President and Vice-President of India held ?
Answer:
(a)
Direct Elections

1. People vote directly for their representatives.
2. Law regulates the eligibility of voters and officials.
3. Every adult holds right to  vote.
4. There is a very large body of voters called electorate.
5. M.L.A. and M.P.’s are elected directly indirectly

Indirect Elections

1. People elect their representatives indirectly through their elected representative
2. All elected representatives are treated as perfect.
3. Every elected repres­entative hold right to vote
4. There is very small body of voters.
5. The members of State Legislative Councils, Members of Rajya Sabha the President and the Vice-President are elected

(b)
Direct elections are held for electing M.L.A. and M.P. Indirect elections are held for M.L.C., members of Rajya Sabha, the President and Vice-President.

(c)
The President of India is elected by a system of proportional representation by means of a single transferable vote by the elected members of both Houses of Parliament and the M.L.A.’s of the States. The Vice-President is elected by members of both House of Parliament assembled at a joint meeting.

Question 2.
With reference to types of elections, answer the following:
(a) What is known as General Elections ?
(b) State two points of difference between a by-election and mid-term elections.
(c) When were the last General Elections held in India?
Answer:
(a)
The elections held to elect the members of the Lok Sabha after expiry of the normal term of five years are called the General Elections.
(b)
Mid-Term Election: Is held when a State Legislative Assembly or the Lok Sabha is dissolved before the completion of its full term (5 years)
By -Election when a seat held by any member of the Legislative Assembly in the Centre or State falls vacant due to death or resignation of the member before the completion of his/her term.
(c)
The Last General Elections were held in India in the year 2009 in April and May.

Question 3.
With reference to terms of office and conditions of service of the Election Commission, answer the following questions
(a) Who is the head of the Election Commission ?
(b) How is he appointed ?
(c) State any two functions of the Chief Election Commissioner.
Answer:
(a)
Chief Election Commissioner is the head of the Election Commission.
(b)
The Chief Commissioner is appointed by the President of India and is done at the behest of the Prime Minister as per Article 74.
(c)
The two functions are:

1.  Preparation of Electoral rolls
2.  Sole authority for superintendence and conduct of elections.

4. With reference to powers and functions of the Election Commission, answer the following:
Question 4(a).
Explain the role of the Election Commission in fixing the dates for elections and conducting the elections.
Answer:
The Election Commission fixes dates for elections. Under the Constitution, the Government decides as to when the elections should be held. The fixing of exact dates rests with the Election Commission.

Question 4(b).
How does the Election Commission ensure free and fair elections ?
Answer:
The Election Commission tries to ensure free and fair elections through prescribing code of conduct, central observers, countermanding, severe punishment for booth capturing etc.

Question 5.
With reference to Election procedures, answer the following questions.
(a) State the procedure for allotment of symbols, state its advantages.
(b) State the nomination procedure. What happens when a nomination paper is incomplete ?
(c) State the procedure by secret ballot ?
Answer:
(a)
The allotment of symbols is done much before the election by the Election Commission. The symbols help the illiterate to identify their candidate by the symbol, to avoid confusion of duplicate names and to carry elections systematically.
(b)
The candidate who intend to contest the elections either as individual candidate or from a political party have to fill in a form called -Nomination paper. If it is incomplete, the Returning officers have the authority to reject the Nomination Paper.
(c)
Secret ballot: It is the method of stamping ballot paper secretly and then placing the ballot paper in a sealed box or casting a vote on the Electronic Voting Machine by pressing a button.

Question 6.
With reference to elections, answer the following question:
(a) State the difference between secret ballot and open ballot.
(b) What is known as Election Petition ? State the procedure of filling an election petition.
(c) When is a repoll ordered ?
Answer:
(a)
Secret Ballot

1.  It is the method of stamping ballot paper secretly.
2.  This process is conducted by Election Commission
3. It is safe and does not create jealousy.

Open Ballot

1.  It is the method of raising hands by the voters.
2.  This process is done in certain cases.
3. It creates the feeling of jealousy against the voter.

(b)
If the defeated candidate has any doubt regarding unjust elections, he can file a petition in a court of law especially in High Court. He may be declared winner on the basis of . merits of the case; however, litigations have always a final . choice to appeal to the Supreme Court.

(c)
The Election Commission on its own can countermand an  election. It can also suspend polling when it fears a threat to voter’s security or other genuine reasons. Then the Election Commission orders a repoll which takes place within two or three days after the first polling.

Question 7.
What is the need for Elections? What are the comparative advantages and disadvantages of Direct and Indirect Elections?
Answer:
It is generally said, ‘No elections, no democracy’. This saying is not without meaning, it simple words it devotes that without the elections a democratic government cannot be set up.

1. People Elect their Rulers:
   It is through elections that Parliament and the State legislatures are constituted. The party or the parties which get the verdict in their favour form the government. The elected members of Parliament and State Legislative.
2. People Exercise Control over their Representative:
   Representatives are elected for a fixed tenure and they have to seek fresh mandate from the people at regular intervals. In 2002 the Congress and the PDP (People’s Democratic Party) had formed a coalition government in Jammu and Kashmir. But in 2008 the people voted for a change. Oman Abdul led the National Conference.
3. Protection of Human Freedoms:
   A government based on the consent of the citizens is relatively more secured than one in which people have no right of participation. In complete democracy no one can complain that he has not a chance to be heard.

Question 8.
With reference to the composition of the Election Commission, explain the following:
(a) Appointment of the Chief Election Commissioner and other Commissioners.
(b) Their Terms of Office and Conditions of Service.
Answer:
Appointment of the Chief Election Commissioner and other Commissioners:
(a) The Chief Election Commissioner and other Commissioners are appointed by the President.
(b) Terms of Office and Conditions of Service of the Chief Election Commissioner and other Commissioners.

1. The Chief Election Commissioner or an Election Commissioner shall hold office for a term of six years.
2. However, if the Chief Election Commissioner or an Election Commissioner has attained the age of 65 years, the shall vacate office on the date on which he attains the said age.
3. The Chief Election Commissioner and other Commissioners are paid a salary equal to the salary of a judge of the Supreme Court e., Rs. 30,000 per month. On retirement, they are entitled to a pension.
4. If the Chief Election Commissioner and other Election commissioners differ in opinion on any matter, such matter shall be decided according to the opinion of the majority.

Question 9.
What measures have been taken to ensure Independence of Election Commission?
Answer:
The Election Commission’s independence is secured by the following provisions:

1. The Chief Election Commissioner shall not be removed from office except in like manner as a judge of the Supreme Court. The other commissioners can not be removed from office except on the recommendation of the Chief Election Commissioner.
2. Their conditions of service shall not be varied to their disadvantage after their appointment.
3. It is the duty of the President or the Governor of a State to make available to the Commission such staff as may be necessary for the conduct of elections.

Question 10.
With reference to the powers and functions of the Election Commission, discuss the following:
(a) Preparation of the Electoral Roll
(b) Recognition of Political Parties
(c) Allotment of Symbols
Answer:
The given headlines with reference to the powers and functions of the Election commission are discussed below:
(a) Preparation of the Electoral Roll:
The Constitution lays down that there shall be one ‘General Electoral Roll’ for every territorial constituency. The Lok Sabha or any of the Assemblies may be dissolved before its terms of five years has expired. Therefore, the electoral rolls will have to be kept up-to-date all the time so that the new election may take place without any difficulty.

(b) Recognition of Political Parties:
The Election Commission grants recognition to the political parties for Election Commission grants recognition to the political parties for Electioon purposes. These national parties are Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP), Indian National Congress (INC) (Cong. I), the CPI (M), the Communist Party of India (CPI), Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) and Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP).

(c) Allotment of Symbols:
The National and State level parties can have a reserved symbol for all the candidates nominated by them. The independent candidates, can select any symbol out of a list of ‘Free Symbols’.The purpose behind alloting symbols is that illiterate masses can not read the names of the candidates of their parties. It is easy for them to identify the symbols for electing candidates of their choice. Secondly ‘reserved symbols’ become so popular that the parties do not have to do canvassing for their candidates.

Question 11.
With reference to powers and functions of the Election Commission, discuss the following:
(a) Conduct of Elections
(b) Ensuring Free and Fair Elections
Answer:
(a) Conduct of Elections:
The Commission conducts all elections to Parliament and the State Legislature. Besides, it supervises and directs elections to the offices of the President and Vice-President Exact dates or polls and finalised after consultations with the Election Commission.

(b)  Ensuring Free and Fair Elections:
The Commission takes the following measures to ensure free and fair elections:

1. The Commission sends central observers to sensitive constituencies.
2. The Commission prescribes the code of conduct for the election campaigns.
3. The Commission creates conditions for a free and fair poll. Recent amendments to the Representation of the People Act provide severe punishment for booth-capturing.

Question 12.
Write a detailed note on the nomination of candidates and the Scrutiny of Nominations.
Answer:
Nomination of Candidates and the Scrutiny of Nominations: In order to be chosen a member of the Rajya Sabha or the State Legislative Council, a person must be not less than 30 years of age. For election to the Lok Sabha or the State Legislative Assembly a person should have attained an age of 25 years. A person is disqualified for being a member of any House on a number of grounds, such as being of unsound mind or holding of an office of profit.On the date fixed for scrutiny, the Returning Officer examines the nomination papers. He may reject any nomination if the candidates is not qualified for being chosen to fill the seat.

Question 13.
Elections are the barometer of democracy. In this context, answer the following questions:
(a) Mention any three measures that have been taken to ensure free and fair elections in India?
(b) What reforms would you suggest to curb the rigging and violence (use of muscle power) in elections?
Answer:
In context of elections as the barometer of democracy, the given questions are answered as follows:

(a)
To ensure free and fair elections in India, many measures have been taken by the Election Commission:

1. The Commission sends central observers to sensitive constituencies;
2. The Commission prescribes the’code of conduct for the election campaigns;
3. The Commission creates conditions for free and fair poll. Recent amendments to the Representation of the People Act provide severe punishment for booth-capturing.

(b)
To curb the evil of money and muscle-power during elections, persons with proven criminal record should be debarred from contesting elections; elections should positively be annulled in those constituencies, where unfair means were resorted to; severe penalities should be laid down for offences like rigging and booth-capturing.

 

 

 

 

ICSE Solutions for Class 9 History and Civics – Our Constitution and Its Preamble

ICSE SolutionsSelina ICSE SolutionsML Aggarwal Solutions

Exercises

Question 1.
What is meant by the term ‘Constitution’?
Answer:
‘Constitution’ is the body of rules and laws according to which a State is governed within the framework of the legislature, the executive and the judiciary.

Question 2.
What is ‘Rule of Law’ ?
Answer:
‘Rule of Law’ means “the absence of arbitrary powers, equality before the law and freedom from illogical, unfair and unjust laws.”

Question 3.
Why is our Constitution known as the ‘Fundamental Law of the Land’?
Answer:
Being superior to the ordinary laws of the State, the Constitution of India is known as the “Fundamental Law of Land”. Every that law is redundant that violates any of the provisions of the Constitution.

Question 4.
Which body framed the Constitution of India?
Answer:
The ‘Constituent Assembly’ is the Constitution-making body that framed the Constitution of India.

Question 5.
Name three prominent members of the Constituent Assembly.
Answer:
The three prominent members of the Constituent Assembly were:

1. Lord Pethic Lawrence
2. Sir Stafford Cripps
3. Mr. Alexander.

Question 6.
Who was elected as Interim President of the Constituent Assembly?
Answer:
Dr. Rajendra Prasad was elected as Interim President of the Constituent Assembly.

Question 7.
Who was the permanent President of the Constituent Assembly?
Answer:
Dr. Rajendra Prasad was the permanent President of the Constituent Assembly.

Question 8.
Who was the Chairman of the Constituent Assembly’s Drafting Committee?
Answer:
Dr. Bhim Rao Ambedkar, was the Chairman of the Constituent Assembly’s Drafting Committee.

Question 9.
When was the Constitution of India enacted and adopted?
Answer:
On November 26, 1949 the Constitution of India was enacted and adopted.

Question 10.
When did the Constitution of India come into force?
Answer:
On January 26, 1950 the Constitution of India came into force.

Question 11.
What is the importance of January 26 in India’s struggle for Puma Swaraj (Complete Independence)?
Answer:
After a long trail of freedom-struggle and innumerable sacrifices, ultimately India succeeded in attaining the freedom from at the hands of ‘Union Jack’. It was\on the 26th of January, 1950 when India got Complete Independence or Puma Swaraj that was absolutely free from the influence of the British government. This very day embodied the dream of freedom of the great freedom-fighters and patriots.

Question 12.
Name any two prominent features of the Constitution of India.
Answer:
The two prominent features of the Constitution of India are:

1. It is a Written Constitution
2. It is the Lengthiest Constitution in the world.

Question 13.
What is meant by Universal Adult Franchise?
Answer:
Adult or Universal Franchise means, every such person whether male or female, is eligible to cast vote to elect the government, who is a citizen of India, is not less than 18 years of age and is not otherwise disqualified under any law.

Question 14.
What argument was given for lowering the voting age from 21 to 18 years in 1989 ?
Answer:
The argument given for lowering the voting age was that “enfranchisement of the youth shall make them more sensible and more creative.”

Question 15.
Define a Welfare State.
Answer:
A Welfare State is the one that provides for its citizens a wide range of social services such as education, medical care and monetary aid during old age, sickness or unemployment.

Question 16.
Mention any two implications of a Democratic Government, as established by the Constitution of India.
Answer:
Implications of a Democratic government, as promised by the Constitution of India is as:

1. It implies that the formed government is the government made by the people, of the people and for the people. In other words, a democratic government is fully devoted to the citizens of the country.
2. It promises the citizens provide them physical and social security. If the citizens of the country feel dissatisfied with the government, they can dissolve such government through franchise process. Thus, public welfare is the sole motive of a Democratic Government.

Question 17.
What is the opposite of a Secular State? Name any one State that is not Secular.
Answer:
The opposite of a Secular State is a Theocratic State. Pakistan is a Theocratic State.

Question 18.
Mention any two features illustrating the nature of Indian Polity or State.
Answer:
Two features illustrating the nature of Indian Polity or State are as follows:

1. India is a Sovereign State:
   India is Independent both internally and externally. She can frame her own socio­economic policies and develop her resources the way she likes. No foreign State can claim her control over her. She is free to frame her foreign policies and choose her allies in peace and war alike.
2. Socialist Order of Society: The word ‘Socialist’ was inserted in the Preamble by the 42nd Amendment Act, 1976. Socialism guarantees “fair distribution of wealth” and “securing a decent standard of life to the people”. The Directive Principles laid down in view of State Policy ensure for its people adequate means of livelihood, fair distribution of wealth, equal pay for equal work for both men and women, protection of children and the working people against exploitation. The conditions of work in mines and factories are regulated by the Equal Remuneration Act and Workmen’s Compensation Act. The Minimum Wages Act provides for fixation and revision of wages from time to time.

Question 19.
Mention any two of the main objects (or ideals) of the Indian Republic as set forth in the Preamble to the Constitution.
Answer:
The two main objects (or ideals) of the Indian Republic as set forth in the Preamble to the Constitution, are as under:

1. Justice—Social, Economic and Political: It is the fundamental right of every citizen in the society to seek justice whether it is associated with society, economy or politics. Justice ensures of protection of rights and interests of an individual and the society respectively. The constitution makes it possible to achieve such an object by securing to all citizens certain fundamental rights. It also lays down certain Directive Principles guiding the State to work efficiently. Social Justice in the sense, providing equal opportunities of education work and labour irrespective of religion, race, caste or sex. It also discourages social abuses like—Untouchability and , religion fanaticism. It is liable to uplift the backward and downtroddens in the society. The directive Principles aim at making the sound economic position of all the citizens by allocating Economic Justice to all of them by means of equal distribution of wealth system. All the citizens have the right to participate in the political activities. They have right to cast their vote, they have right to contest the election as per the norms and conditions of the election commission. Thus, Political Justice is meant for all.
2. Liberty of Thought, Expression, Belief, Faith and Worship: There is provision in the Constitution as the Preamble refers to i.e., every individual has the right to write, speak or express his thoughts, beliefs while keeping himself within the restrictions imposed on this right. Likewise, every person is free to follow any religion.He is free to have faith or belief in any God or Goddess. He can go to any Pilgrimage to worship in the country.

Question 20.
Mention what the Preamble says about ‘Equality’
Answer:
While speaking in context of ‘Equality’, the distinction made in the Preamble goes on two levels. On one hand, Equality serves equality for all before law, status and opportunity in matters of public employment, while on the other hand, equality always means “equality among equals”. There can be no equality between paupers and princes. To discriminate between them is not a violation of the Constitution. Consequently, the state can make special provision for women, children and the backward classes of citizens.

Question 21.
Mention w hat the Preamble states about ‘Fraternity’.
Answer:
‘Fraternity’ means spirit of brotherhood. As our society is divided by a number of classes castes, religions and languages, therefore it is very essential to establish harmony amongst them for that reason our constitution-makers added the word ‘fraternity’ in the Preamble. Thus, securing the Unity and Integrity of the Nation.

Question 22.
Mention the words introduced in the Preamble by the Constitution Forty-second Amendment Act, 1976.
Answer:
The words Socialist, Secular, Unity and Integrity of the Nation were added to the Preamble by the 42nd Constitution Amendment Act of 1976. It came into effect on January 3, 1977.

Question 23.
What is the significance of the Preamble to the Constitution ?
Answer:
The Preamble to the Constitution is significant in many ways.

1. The Preamble declares that the source of the Constitution is the People of India.
2. It indicates the secular, socialist and democratic basis of the .Constitution.
3. It states the basic objects or ideals of the Indian Republic. It leads the law and makes it go in the fight direction while providing ‘Social Justice’, and protecting the interests of the weaker sections of the society.
4. It includes basic features of the constitution viz., Supremacy of the Constitution, India has the Republican and Democratic form of government, the Constitution is that of secular character. Segregation of Powers between the Executive, Legislature and Judiciary, the Constitution is also of Federal character under certain circumstances.

Question 24.
Is the Preamble a part of the Constitution ?
Answer:
Yes, the Preamble is a part of the Constitution because it contains the basic structure or framework of the Constitution.

Question 25.
What do we mean when we say that the Preamble is a part of the Constitution of India ?
Answer:
It means, the Preamble is the introductory part of the Constitution. It “walks before” the Constitution and tells us the source, the objects and contents of the Constitution.

Question 26.
The Preamble to the’Constitution describes India a Socialist State. What does the expression ‘Socialist’ mean here ?
Answer:
The expression ‘Socialist’ signifies the meaning of “fair distribution of wealth” and “Securing decent standard of life to the people.” India, which is a Socialist State, she does provide equal opportunities to all, irrespective of birth, sex and religion in all aspects of life.

Question 27.
In what sense is India a Republic ?
Answer:
A Republic country is that, where equality, liberty and fraternity go hand in hand. Such a country is ruled over by the representatives that are nominated and elected from and by amongst the common mass. There is no hereditary monarch in such a state. The President of India holds office for a term of five years. He is the elected Head of the State. The legislators (the MPs and MLAs) are also elected by the people. As India enjoys all these relaxations, hence we can say India is a Republic.

STRUCTURED QUESTIONS 

Question 1.
How can you say that the Constituent Assembly of India represented all major and smaller communities of the country ? OR Briefly comment on the statement that the Constituent Assembly looked like a Mini-India.
Answer:
Following the principle of “Unity in Diversification”, the Constituent Assembly of India came into existence. It was skillfully interwoven, taking the members from almost all major regions and all major sections and communities of India. The joint efforts of their, made the country venture into the sea of progress and prosperity in the near future.All the members had been committed to the national integration. They were liable to work in the interests of general public even when their aspirations tended lean to their respective regions and communities. As an evidence in this perspective, we find it included Dr. Ambedkar hailed from Maharashtra Rajendra Prasad and Satyanarayan Sinha belonged to Bihar, Mohammed Saddulla belonged to Assam, Hukam Singh and Ujjal Singh from East Punjab and so on. Also, it included the women members like Mrs. Sarojini Naidu, Rajkumari Amrit Kaur. Thus, in a way the scenario set forth by the Constituent Assembly is no less than A Microcosm of India
(Mini- India).

Question 2.
Examine the salient features of the Constitution of India with reference to the following:
(a) Universal Adult Franchise
(b) Single Citizenship
Answer:
(a) Universal Adult Franchise:
Our constitution is based on the principle of Universal (Adult) Franchise. It gives voting right to every person whether male or female. He/she is eligible to cast vote to elect the government. He/she must be citizen of India, is not less than 18 years of age and is not otherwise disqualified under any law.
(b) Single Citizenship:
The Constitution of India believes in the Single Citizenship. That means a person who belongs to India, is liable to take hold of Single Citizenship no matter in which State he/she resides. Single Citizenship allows a citizen to entertain the rights and laws of the country. However, in America, dual citizenship is prevalent.

Question 3.
Examine the salient features of the Constitution of India with reference to the following:
(a) India is a Welfare State
(b) India is a Secular State
(c) ‘Justice’ and ‘Liberty’ as the basic objects for which the Indian Republic exists. In this context explain political dimensions of Justice.  
Answer:
(a) India is a Welfare State:
It is very true that India is a Welfare State. A Welfare state in the sense that she provides for her citizens a wide range of social services such as education, medical care and financial aid during old age, sickness or unemployment. The Constitution of India proclaims, “the State shall strive to promote the welfare of the people”. Under Part-IV of the Constitution (which include Directive Principles of State Policy),
The State is directed to ensure to the people:

1. Employment
2. Education
3.  Assistance in case of old age, sickness and disablement. Since 1951 India has followed the path of democratic planning.

(b)
India is a Secular State: The manner in which the word ‘Secular’ is introduced in Constitution of India, it refers to religious aspect. Ours is the country that is dominated by maximum number of religions. Every religion follows different traditions and rituals. In this light, the makers of the Constitution had to look into every religion with the same point of view, hence it was decided to treat all religions equally, so as to avoid any sort of dispute that might erupt in the name of religion. The impartial attitude adopted towards religion on legal grounds stepped into the need to mention a word like-‘Secular’ in the Constitution. That means. Anyone is free to adopt any religion.

(c)
Political Justice: The Preamble guarantees justice on different levels. Here, Justice is put in a comprehensive manner. Thus, Justice is closely associated to the following aspects that prevail in a democratic Republic State like that of India. Justice is confined to various dimensions when it is talked in Political context. Political Justice is related to the right to vote, free and fair elections and equal access to public offices. The Constitution of India guarantees a minimum number of seats to the Scheduled Castes and Tribes in the Lok Sabha and State Legislative Assemblies. People belonging to various communities,

ADDITIONAL QUESTIONS

Question 1.
What is meant by the term Constitution ?
Answer:
‘Constitution’ is a comprehensive document containing the set of rules according to which the government of a country runs.

Question 2.
On the basis of which plan was the Constituent Assembly constituted ?.
Answer:
On the basis of the proposals of the Freedom Fighters a Constituent Assembly was set up, whose members were to be elected indirectly by the Provincial Legislative Assemblies.

Question 3.
What is known as the ‘Objectives Resolution’?
Answer:
‘Objective Resolution,’ was proposed by Pt.Nehruon December 13, 1946, for highlighting the ‘national goals’.

Question 4.
By whom and when was the Objective Resolution proposed and passed ?
Answer:
Pt. Jawaharlal Nehru proposed the Resolution and it was passed on January 22,1947.

Question 5.
Who was appointed as the Chairman of the Drafting Committee of the Constituent ?
Answer:
Dr. Bhim Rao Ambedkar, was the Chairman of the Constituent Assembly’s Drafting Committee. Which was set up on August 29, 1947.

Question 6.
When was the Constitution adopted and passed ? When did it come into force ?
Answer:
The Constitution was adopted and passed by the Constituent Assembly on November 26,1949. The Constitution as a whole came into force with effect from January 26, 1950.

Question 7.
State the significance of January 26.
Answer:
It was on this date, January 26, in 1929, that the Lahore Session of the Indian National Congress had for the first time given the call for ‘Purna Swaraj’. Since then, the day was celebrated as Independence Day upto 1947, but later on, it was designated as the Republic Day.

Question 8.
What is known as the Preamble ? What is the importance of the opening words of the Preamble ?
Answer:
The Preamble is the introductory part of constitution, which sets out the main objectives of the Constitution.Though the Preamble is not an operative part of the Constitution, it has a hold on the governments. This is because when there is a dispute regarding the interpretation of the text of the Constitution, explanation given in the Preamble comes in handy.

Question 9.
How is the Indian Republic different from that of the USA?
Answer:
In the United States, the President is directly elected by the people whereas in the Indian Republic, the President is indirectly elected, by the elected representatives of the people.

Question 10.
Explain the significance of the term ‘Sovereign’.
Answer:
The Preamble declared India a ‘Sovereign state’. It means that India is its own ‘Supreme’ power and not a subject of any other state or country.

Question 11.
Why was the word ‘SECULAR’, incorporated in the Preamble ?
Answer:
The people of India form a significant mixture of the different religions and communities. So, it was indespensable to follow secularism, in order to maintain peace and order, because it concentrates on the respect and importance to every religion, as every religion is made for the welfare of humanity.

Question 12.
Explain the significance of the term ‘DEMOCRATIC’ in the Preamble.
Answer:
This term implies that India has chosen a form of government in which people have a say as to who should hold power and how it should be used i.e, Government by the people, of the people and for the people.

Question 13.
What is meant by the term ‘JUSTICE’ as an ideal of the Indian Constitution ?
Ans.
‘Justice’ implies not only administration of law in a fair and responsible way but also without any privilege or prejudice.

Question 14.
Give two examples to indicate that the Preamble to the Constitution has ensured political justice for all.
Answer:

1. There is freedom for the citizens to have their political views as long as such views do not go against the interest of the country.
2. There is freedom to vote for any recognised political party in the country.
3. Every citizen of India except those who are debarred on account of criminal offences can stand for election and hold office if elected.

Question 15.
Mention any two features indicating the significance of the Preamble.
Answer:

1. The Preamble represents the essence, the philosophy, the ideals of the entire Constitution of India. The other parts and provisions of the Constitution are only an elaboration and an attempt to give concrete shape to the words of the Preamble.
2. The Preamble contains the five basic features of the Constitution. That is India is a Sovereign, Socialist, Secular, Democratic, Republic. Besides, it reminds people of the Four Ideals of the State. That is, India should secure to all its citizens Justice, Liberty, Equality and Fraternity.

Question 16.
Why did the Muslims League boycott the meetings of the Constituent Assembly ?
Answer:
The Muslims League boycotted the Constituent Assembly to demand the creation of a separate state called Pakistan.

Question 17.
Who represented the Anglo-Indians in the Constituent Assembly ?
Answer:
The Anglo-Indians were represented by Mr. Frank Anthony and Mr. S.H. Prater, the Indian Christians, by Dr. H.C. Mukerjee and Joseph Dsauza.

Question 18.
Give two objectives of the Indian Republic as set forth in the constitution of India.
Ans.
Two objectives are as follows:

1. Secularism equal respect and recognition of all religions from the state.
2. Sovereign Declaration of India as it own supreme power.

Question 19.
What is one main strength of the Indian Constitution ?
Answer:
Indian Constitution is a lengthy document, most comprehensive and bulky Constitution ever adopted by any country.

Question 20.
Why is our Constitution known as the ‘Fundamental Law of the Land’?
Answer:
Being superior to the ordinary laws of the State, the Constitution of India is known as the “Fundamental Law of Land”. Every that law is redundant that violates any of the provisions of the Constitution.

Question 21.
Which body framed the Constitution of India?
Answer:
The ‘Constituent Assembly’ is the constitution-making body that framed the Constitution of India.

Question 22.
Name the three prominent members of the Constituent Assembly.
Answer:
The three prominent members of the Constituent Assembly were:

1. Lord Pethic Lawrence
2. Sir Stafford Cripps
3. Alexander.

Question 23.
Who was elected as Interim President of the Constituent Assembly?
Answer:
Dr. Rajendra Prasad was elected as Interim President of the Constituent Assembly.

Question 24.
Who was the permanent President of the Constituent Assembly?
Answer:
Dr. Rajendra Prasad was the permanent President of the Constituent Assembly.

Question 25.
Who was the Chairman of the Constituent Assembly’s Drafting Committee?
Answer:
Dr. Bhim Rao Ambedkar, was the Chairman of the Constituent Assembly’s Drafting Committee.

Question 26.
When was the Constitution of India enacted and adopted?
Answer:
On November 26, 1949 the Constitution of India was enacted and adopted.

Question 27.
When did the Constitution of India come into force?
Answer:
On January 26, 1950 the Constitution of India came into force.

Question 28.
What is the importance of January 26 in India’s struggle for Puma Swaraj (Complete Independence)?
Answer:
After a long trail of freedom-struggle and innumerable sacrifices, ultimately India succeeded in attaining the freedom from at the hands of ‘Union Jack’. It was on the 26th of January, 1950 when India got Complete Independence or Puma Swaraj that was absolutely free from the influence of the British government. This very day embodied the dream of freedom of the great freedom- fighters and patriots.

Question 29.
What do you understand by the term ‘Preamble’ to the Constitution?
Answer:
‘Preamble’ is an introduction to the Constitution. It ‘walks before’ the Constitution and tells the source, the objects and contents of the Constitution. It imbibes the basic structure or framework of the Constitution.

Question 30.
What do the words “We, the People of India” in the Preamble signify?
Answer:
The words “We, the People of India” in the Preamble relate to the natives from India who by birth belong to India.

Question 31.
Preamble to the Constitution describes India as a Sovereign State. What do you understand by the term ‘Sovereign’?
Answer:
The term ‘Sovereign’ suggests the meaning in terms of Political Power. That means, a nation which is politically endowed with ruling power in external and internal affairs.

Question 32.
Mention any two implications of a Democratic government, as promised by the Preamble to the Constitution?
Answer:
A Democratic government, as promised by the Preamble to the Constitution, it implies that the formed government is the government made by the people, of the people and for the people. In other words, a democratic government is fully devoted to the citizens of the country. It promises the citizens provide them physical and social security. If the citizens of the country feel dissatisfied with the government, they can dissolve such government through Franchise process. Thus, public welfare is the sole motive of a Democratic Government.

Question 33.
Mention any two steps taken by the Indian Republic in pursuance of its socialist objectives.
Answer:
In pursuance of socialist objectives, following are the two steps taken by the Indian Republic:

1. Social Justice.
2.  Economic Justice.

Question 34.
The Constitution of India stands for a Secular State. What does ‘Secularism’ mean?
Answer:
‘Secularism’ means the quality of having oneness while looking into the other religions. The country like-India incorporates a number of religions. There is no restrain in following the denomination. Everyone is free to adopt any religion, but side by side, one is to show respect for other religions too. Hence, the Constitution of India seeks uniformity on the religions level. The ideology of uniformity in the religions perspective makes India a Secular State.

Question 35.
What is the opposite of a Secular State? Name any one State that is not Secular.
Answer:
The opposite of a Secular State is a Theoratic State. Pakistan is a Theocratic State.

Question 36.
Mention any two features illustrating the nature of Indian Polity or State.
Answer:
Two features illustrating the nature of Indian Polity or State are as follows:

1.  India is a Sovereign State: India is Independent both internally and externally. She can frame her own socio­economic policies and develop her resources the way she likes. No foreign State can claim her control over her. She is free to frame her foreign policies and choose her allies in peace and war alike.
2. Socialist Order of Society: The work ‘Socialist’ was inserted in the Preamble by the 42nd Amendment Act, 1976. Socialism guarantees “fair distribution ofwealth” and “securing a .decent standard of life to the people”. The Directive Principles laid down in view of State Policy ensure for its people adequate means of livelihood, fair distribution of wealth, equal pay for equal work for both men and women, protection of children and the working people against exploitation. The conditions of work in mines and factories are regulated by the Equal Remuneration Act and Workmen’s Compensation Act. The Minimum Wages Act provides for fixation and revision of wages from time to time.

Question 37.
Mention any two of the main objects (or ideals) of the Indian Republic as set forth in the Preamble to the Constitution.
Answer:
The two main objects (or ideals) of the Indian Republic as set forth in the Preamble to the Constitution, are as under:

1. Justice-Social, Economic and Political: It is the fundamental right of every citizen in the society to seek jusitce whether it is associated with society, economy or politics. Justice ensures of protection of rights and interests of an individual and the society respectively. The constitution makes it possible to achieve such an object by securing to all citizens certain fundamental rights. It also lays down certain Directive Principles guiding the State to work efficiently. Social Justice in the sense, providing equal opportunities of education work and labour irrespective of religion, race, caste or sex. It also discourages social abuses like-Untouchability and religion fanaticism. It is liable to uplift the backward and downtroddens in the society. The directive Principles aim at making the sound economic position of all the citizens by allocating Economic Justice to all of them by means of equal distribution of wealth system. All the citizens have the right to participate in the political activities. They have right to cast their vote, they have right to contest the election as per the norms and conditions of the election commission. Thus, Political Justice is meant for all.
2. Liberty of Thought, Expression, Belief, Faith and Worship: There is provision in the Constitution as the Preamble refers to i.e., every individual has the right to write, speak or express his thoughts, beliefs while keeping himself within the restrictions imposed on this right. Likewise, every person is free to follow any religion. He is free to have faith or belief in any God or Goddess. He can go to any Pilgrimage to worship in the country.

Question 38.
Mention what the Preamble says about ‘Equality’.
Answer:
While speaking in context of ‘Equality’, the distinction made in the Preamble goes on two levels. On one hand, Equality serves equality for all before law, status and opportunity in matters of public employment, while on the other hand, equality always means “equality among equals”. There can be no equality between paupers and princes. To discriminate between them is not a violation of the Constitution. Consequently, the state can make special provision for women, children and the backward classes of citizens.

Question 39.
Mention what the Preamble state about ‘Fraternity’.
Answer:
‘Fraternity’ means spirit of brotherhood. As our society is divided by a number of classes castes, religions and languages, therefore it is very essential to establish harmony amongst them for that reason our constitution-makers added the word ‘fraternity’ in the Preamble. Thus, securing the Unity and Integrity of the Nation.

Question 40.
Mention the words introduced in the Preamble by the Constitution Forty-second Amendment Act, 1976.
Answer:
The words Socialist, Secular, Unity and Integrity of the Nation were added to the Preamble by the 42nd Constitution Amendment Act of 1976. It came into effect on January 3, 1977.

Question 41.
What is the significance of the Preamble, to the Constitution?
Answer:
The Preamble to the Constitution is significant in many ways.

1. The Preamble declares that the source of the Constitution is the People of India.
2. It indicates the secular, socialist and democratic basis of the Constitution.
3. It states the basic or ideals of the Indian Republic. It leads the law and makes it go in the right direction while providing ‘Social Justice’, and protecting the interests of the weaker sections of the society.
4. It includes basic features of the constitution viz., Supremacy of the Constitution, India has the Republican and Democratic form of government, the Constitution is that of secular character. Segregation of Powers between the Executive, Legislature and Judiciary, the Constitution is also of Federal character under certain circumstances.

Question 42.
Is the Preamble a part of the Constitution?
Answer:
Yes, the Preamble is a part of the Constitution because it contains the basic structure or framework of the Constitution.

Question 43.
What do we mean when we say that the Preamble is a part of the Constitution of India?
Answer:
It means, the Preamble is the introductory part of the Constitution. It “Walks before” the Constitution and tells US the sources, the objects and contents of the Constitution.

Question 44.
The Preamble to the Constitution describes India a Socialist State. What does the expression ‘Socialist’ mean here?
Answer:
The expression ‘Socialisty’ signifies the meaning of “fair distribution of wealth” and “Securing decent standard of life to the people”. India, which is a Socialist State, she does provide equal opportunities to all, irrespective of birth, sex and religion in all aspects of life.

Question 45.
In what sense is India a Republic?
Answer:
A Republic country is that, where equality, liberty and fraternity go hand in hand. Such a country is ruled over by the representatives that are nominated and elected from and by amongst the common mass. There is no hereditary monarch in such a state. The President of India holds office for a term of five years. He is the elected Head of the State. The legislators (the MPs and MLAs) are also elected by the people. As India enjoys all these relaxations, hence we can say India is a Republic.

Structured Questions:

Question 1.
With reference to the making of Indian Constitution explain the following:
(a) When and how were the members of the Constituent Assembly elected ?
(b) How was the membership of the Constituent Assembly reduced as a result of partition of the country?
(c) How do you say that the Constituent Assembly gave adequate representation to all sections of the Indian Society?
Answer:
(a)
The first sitting of the Assembly was held on December 9, 1946, presided by Dr. Sachidanand Sinha. The oldest member Dr. Rajendra Prasad was elected permanent chairman on December 11, 1946. The members were the leading personalities of the day, e.g. Pt. Nehru, Sardar Patel, Dr. Shyama Prasad Mukerjee, Dr. S. Radhakrishnan, J.B. Kriplani, Maulana Azad, K.M. Munshi, Dr. Ambedkar, H.N. Kunzru, Sarojini Naidu, Vijayalaxmi Pandit, Rajagopalachari etc.
(b)
The membership of the Assembly of India stood at 299 against the original number of 385 members, due to the partition of the country.
(c)
The wide ranging membership of the Assembly gave representation to all shades of public opinion, e.g. Muslims and Sikhs, Congress leaders, Anglo-Indians, Indian Christians, Scheduled Castes and Tribes, all in one, got combined representation.

Question 2.
With reference to the Objective Resolution explain the following:
(a) When was the Resolution passed by the Constituent Assembly ?
(b) What were the main points of the Objective Resolution?
(c) What did the Resolution propose ?
Answer:
(a)
The Resolution was passed by the Constituent Assembly on January 22, 1947.
(b)
The Objective Resolution, focused on the ‘national goals’ of republic, ideals of democracy, fundamental (c)
Rights of citizens along with minorities and backward classes.
The Resolution proposed:

1. Republic of India
2. Ideals of social, political and economic democracy would be granted to all.
3. Fundamental Rights to citizens.
4. Safeguard the rights of minorities and backward classes.

Question 3.
With reference to commencement of the Constitution explain the following:
(a) The changes effected in the administration of the country with the commencement of the Constitution.
(b) The clause relating to citizenship was put into effect immediately after signing of the Constitution.
Ans.
(a)
Along with various important changes for safe side, with a meaningful perspective, the constitution of India is the real guide of the successive governments and their political ideologies.
(b)
Being an Indian or having Indian citizenship is just not enough without cementing bond of unity of nation. So an Indian citizen is expected to maintain both individual and national dignity.

Question 4.
With reference to the Preamble of the Indian Constitution, answer the following:
(a) What became the basis of incorporating the Preamble in the Indian Constitution ?                   ‘
(b) Give the significance of  We the people’ in the Preamble.
(c) How have the objectives of Indian Constitution been emphasised in the Preamble.
Answer:
(a)
Preamble is the introductory part of the Constitution summarising the main features and ideals of the nation in order to get proper clue and direction.
(b)
We, The People’. It has perhaps been inspired by a similar expression in the American Constitution. The words ‘ADOPT, ENACT AND GIVE TO OURSELVES THIS CONSTITUTION’ makes the people the holders of this authority. Speaking about this purpose and intention of the Constitution, Dr. Ambedkar said in the Constituent Assembly: “This Constitution has its roots in the people and it derives its authority from the people.”
(c)
The objectives of the Indian constitution are emphasised in the preamble in order to memorise the ideals and goals of the constitution to keep it unforgettable.

5. With reference to the Preamble of the Indian Constitution, answer the following questions:
Question 5(a) .
Explain the significance of the Preamble.
Answer:
The significance of the Preamble are as below:

1. The Preamble represents the essence, the philosophy, the ideals of the entire Constitution of India. The other parts and provisions of the Constitution are only an elaboration and an attempt to give concrete shape to the words of the Preamble. Over the years so many amendments have been made to the Constitution but its basic features could not be altered.
2. Disputes, ambiguities are to be resolved in a writing Constitution. In order to interpret the articles it is necessary to refer often to the Preamble which should form the basis for interpretation,
3. The Preamble contains the five basic features of the Constitution. That is, India is a Sovereign, Socialist, Secular, Democratic, Republic. Besides, it reminds people of the Four Ideals of the State. That is, India should secure to all its citizens Justice, Liberty, Equality and Fraternity.

Question 5(b) .
What is the significance of the words, ‘Sovereign Socialist Democratic Republic’ as given in the
Preamble ?
Answer:
‘Sovereign Socialist Secular Democratic Republic’. In the words of Chief Justice Hidyatullah : “It lays down the pattern of our political society.”Based on this significance, the Preamble is considered ‘the soul and spirit’ of our Constitution.

Question 6.
Explain the meaning following terms:
(a) Liberty
(b) Fraternity
(c) Equality.
Ans.
(a) Liberty: It means the Liberty of thoughts, expression belief, faith and worship.
(b) Fraternity: It is to assure the dignity of the individual and the unity and integrity of the Nation for brotherhood and friendship.
(c) Equality: It means the equality of status and of opportunity and to promote them among all.

Question 7.
How do you regard the Constitution of India as a real guide for the successive Governments in respect of the following:
(a) The Preamble
(b) Incorporation of Fundamental Rights and Directive Principles.
Answer:
(a)
The Preamble is an ideal guide to understand the actual objectives and aims of the Nation for easy and peaceful decisions practiced on the basis of it.

(b)
Fundamental Rights must be enjoyed by every citizen to satisfy the public opinion and the Directive Principles of State Policy ensure constant interaction between people and state which are basic roots to be successful for the successive governments in each and every type of circumstances i.e. the key to success is undoubtedly is to follow the constitution for proper guidance.

Question 8.
How can you say that the Constituent Assembly of India represented all major and smaller communities of the country?

OR

Briefly comment on the statement that the Constituent Assembly looked like a Mini-India.

Answer:
Following the principle of “Unity in Diversification”, the Constituent Assembly of India came into existence. It was skillfully interwoven, taking the members from almost all major regions and all major sections and communities of India. The joint efforts of their, made the country venture into the sea of progress and prosperity in the near future. All the members had been committed to the national integration. They were liable to work in the interests of general public even when their aspirations tended lean to their respective regions and communities. As an evidence in this perspective, we find it included Dr. Ambedkar hailed from maharashtra, Rajendra Prasad and Satyanarayan Sinha belonged to Bihar, Mohammed Saddulla belonged to Assam, Hukam Singh and Ujjal Singh from East Punjab and so on. Also, it included the women members like Mrs. Sarojini Naidu, Rajkumari Amrit Kaur. Thus, in a way the scenario set forth by the Constituent Assembly is no less than A Microcosm of India (Mini- India).

Question 9.
The Preamble to the Constitution declares India to be a Secular-Democratic Republic. In this context, answer the following questions:
(a) What does the expression ‘Secular’ mean here?
(b) Do you agree with the view that Indian Constitution promises not only political and social democracy, but economic democracy as well?
Answer:
The above questions in context of the Preamble to the constitution declaring India to be a Secular-Democratic Republic are.answered as under.
(a)
The manner in which the word ‘Secular’ is introduced into the Preamble of the Constitution of India, it refers to religious aspect. Ours is the country that is dominated by maximum number of religions. Every religion follows different traditions and rituals. In this light, the makers of the Constitution had to look into every religion with the same point of view, hence it was decided to treat all religions equally, so as to avoid any sort of dispute that might erupt in the name of religion. The impartial attitude adopted towards religion on legal grounds stepped into the need to mention a word like-‘Secular’ in the Constitution. That means. Anyone is free to adopt any religion.
(b)
Yes, we very much agree with the view that India Constitution promises not only political democracy, but economic democracy as well. In the Preamble, a just economic system is promised under Economic Justice. A sound democracy lies in a sound economy in a democratic nation. For the purpose, “fair distribution of wealth” and “a decent Standard of life to the people” has been secured in the Indian Constitution

Question 10.
The Preamble states ‘Justice’ and ‘Liberty’ as the basic objects for which the Indian Republic exists. In this context explain the social, economic and political dimensions of Justice.
Answer:
The Preamble guarantees justice on different levels. Here, Justice is put in a comprehensive manner. Thus, Justice is closely associated to the following aspects that prevail in a democratic Republic State like that of India. In context of Social Justice, one thing is made very clear in the Constitution i.e., all the individuals living in the society shall not be discriminated on the grounds of religion, race, caste or sex. They are supposed to enjoy the civil amenities in a subservient way.

There is no room for Untouchability in our Constitution. The State may make provision for the advancement and upliftment of socially and educationally backward classes of citizens. For Economic Justice, the Directive Principles promise to bring about a just economic system in the Preamble. Economic Justice means, all the citizens living in the society are liable to be financially sound so as to meet and enjoy their daily needs comfortably. As Justice Krishna Iyyer has rightly said in context of Economic Justice, he says, “Economic Justice means, wippingout the tear from every eye”. Justice is confined to various dimensions when it is talked in Political context.

Political Justice is related to the right to vote, free and fair elections and equal access to public offices. The Constitution of India guarantees a minimum number of seats to the Scheduled Castes and Tribes in the Lok Sabha and State Legislative Assemblies. People belonging to various communities, sects or groups are eligible to form their separate union or association to raise their voice against injustice or in favour of their reasonable demands before the government.

Question 11.
Explain the following terns in the context of the Preamble to the Constitution:
(a) Liberty
(b) Equality, and
Answer:
The given terms in context of the Preamble to the Constitution are answered as under:
(a) Liberty:
In the preamble, there is a provision of freedom or relaxation over a certain issues under the name of ‘Liberty’, that goes for the welfare of common mass. The liberty mentioned in the context of the Preamble to the Constitution relates to Liberty of Thought, Expression Belief, Faith and Worship. Freedom of throught and expression means, the right to speak or write freely on any subject, provided the speaker abides by the restrictions imposed on this right. A person has freedom of religion and conscience. The State gives equal freedom to all religions.
(b) Equality:
A person is ensured of equality before law. Social equality and equality of opportunity in matters of public employment, are yet another levels of Equality. But, equality is seen on the criterion which reveals “equality among equals”. A poor is no match to a rich. So, at this juncture, equality differs in its meaning. The Constitution too overlooks such a discrimination and rules out any violation while discriminating the both. Hence, the State can make special provision for women, children and the backward classes of citizens.
(c) Fraternity:
It is the spirit of brotherhood which is indispensable to bind the nation in a single string to provide strength and stability to the nation. Since, our society is divided by many classes, castes, religions and languages therefore, it is very essential to bring about harmony among them, lest any kind of friction differentiation of ideologies should bring forth any kind confrontation. Fraternity marks the dignity of the individual and the Unity and Integrity of the Nation.

Question 12.
What is the significance of the Preamble to the Constitution?
Answer:
The Preamble is a prologue that throws the light on the source, the objects and the contents compiled in the Constitution. It is an integral and vital part of the Constitution that consists of the basic structure or framework of the Constitution. It depicts the real, picture of the nation along with the description of its nature. The Preamble states that the source of the Constitution is the People of India. Again, it indicates that India is a secular, socialist and democratic country. It states the basic objects or ideals of the Indian Republic. It works as a lighthouse to Law-makers to bring about amendments time to time in the interests of weaker sections of the society.

Question 13.
What do you know about the Composition of the Constituent Assembly which framed the Constitution of India?
Answer:
To end the political deadlock, the Cabinet Mission brought forth the proposals of it’s members that contained details of the Constituent Assembly elections that were to be held in July, 1946. The Provincial Assemblies elected the members of the Constituent Assembly, under the scheme of Indirect Election proposed by the Cabinet Mission. The representatives included as per the nomination were from the Princely States, whom the rulers of these states had nominated. The Constituent Assembly had been equipped with 385 members in all. 292 seats went to the Provinces, whereas the Princely States were allocated 93 seats. However, the number of seats reduced to 308 after the partition of India. The eminent personality, Dr. Rajendra Prasad was appointed the President. Many other distinguished political leaders too joined hands in it’s composition. Dr. B.R. Ambedkar was the Chairman of Assembly’s Committee i.e., the Drafting Committee. In other words, the Constituent Assembly presented the panorama of a Mini-India that included persons from different communities in the society. It also included the women members. Presumably, the Congress had the lion- share in the Constituent Assembly. It also propounded the supporters of Forward Bloc and members of the Hindu Maha Sabha and the Muslim League. In nutshell, the contribution of them led to the framing of the Constitution  of the Independent India.

 

 

 

ICSE Solutions for Class 9 History and Civics – The Reformation

ICSE SolutionsSelina ICSE SolutionsML Aggarwal Solutions

EXERCISES

Question 1.
What do you understand by the term ‘Reformation’?
Answer:
‘Reformation’ was a religious Movement launched by Martin Luther. It protested against the dogmas of Roman Catholic Church.

Question 2.
Mention two important causes of the Reformation.
Answer:
Two important causes of the Reformation are:

1. Evils of the Catholic Church.
2. Financial Burden on People in General.

Question 3.
What is meant by the Sale of Indulgences?
Answer:
Tetzel, who was sent to Germany by Pope, he used to sell Indulgences, offering pardon to those who paid money. This practice of his is said to be the Sale of Indulgences.

Question 4.
How did the Pope Leo X try to collect funds for building St. Peter’s Basilica?
Answer:
The Pope Leo X, tried to collect funds for building St. Peter’s Basilica by sending missionaries to sell Indulgences.

Question 5.
Name the English priest who translated the Holy Bible into English.
Answer:
Wycliff.

Question 6.
Who started the revolt against the authority of the Church in Germany?
Answer:
Martin Luther.

Question 7.
Why did Marin Luther object to the power of Pope?
Answer:
The Pope used to forgive sins of all that paid, regardless of whether they sincerely regretted their actions, which made Martin Luther to raise his objection against the power of the Pope.

Question 8.
Why was Martin Luthur Excommunicated from the Church?
Answer:
Martin Luther was very much against the worldliness of the Pope Leo X, the Clergy and the spiritual emptiness of the Catholic Church. All his resentment provoked the Pope and he declared Martin Luther as a heretic and sent a letter, warning him that he would be excommunicated from the Church. Martin Luther defiantly burnt the Papal’s Bull of Excommunication in the presence of the public at Writen berg on December 10, 1520, theory marking his revolt.

Question 9.
Who translated the Holy Bible from Latin into German language?
Answer:
Martin Luther translated the Holy Bible from Latin to German language.

Question 10.
What was the immediate cause of the division of the Roman Catholic Church?
Answer:
The Reformation in Europe was the immediate cause of the division of the Roman Catholic church.

Question 11.
Which are the two factions of the Church?
Answer:
The Roman Catholic and the Protestant.

Question 12.
What were the two main decision made by the Council of Trent?
Answer:
The Council of Trent took up steps to enforce strict discipline among the Church officials. The sale of Church offices were stopped. It condemned and prohibited Sale of Indulgences. Seminars were to be started for imparting education and training to priests. The Church should not charge any fees for conducting religious services; sermons should be preached in the language of the people.

Question 13.
Who founded the Society of Jesus?
Answer:
Ignatius Loyola, a Spanish nobleman founded the Society of Jesus.

Question 14.
What were the important terms of the peace of Augsburg  in 1555?
Answer:
The important terms of the peace of Augsburg in 1555 were:

1. The ruler will have the right to determine his static-religion.
2. Lutheran subjects in Catholic states in Germany will not be asked to renounce their faith.

Question 15.
Who heralded the Protestant Movement in Switzerland?
Answer:
Ulrich Zwingli heralded the Protestant Movement in Switzerland.

Question 16.
What did the Puritans want people to do?
Answer:
Puritans condemned and prohibited Sale of Indulgences. Seminaries were to be started for importing education and training to priests. The Church should not charge any fees for conducting religious services; sermons should be preached in the language of the people.

Question 17.
Mention the names of two Jesuit missionaries who helped in restoring the prestige of the Catholic Church.
Answer:
St. Francis Xavier and Loyola.

Question 18.
What is meant by the term ‘Nation-State’?
Answer:
The Nation State refers to a country with well defined natural boundaries, having people with common history, culture and character.

Question 19.
How Reformation led to the formation of Nation-States in Europe.
Answer:
As the Protestant revolt grew in strength, many rulers who wanted to be freed of leading-strings of the Pope sided with Martine Luther or Calvin. Many European kings now declared themselves as Head of the Church as well as of the Government. The kings had already crushed the feudal lords. Now another great rival of the Crown i.e., the Church also submitted to King’s authority. That completed the edifice of a National-State.

Question 20.
What was ‘Mercantilism’?
Answer:
Mercantilism meant ‘complete government control over trade, commerce and industry.’

Question 21.
Mention the main point on which Luther and Zwingli disagreed.
Answer:
The ‘Lord’s Supper’ was the main point on which Luther and Zwingli disagreed.

Sturctured Questions

Question 1.
The Movement against the Roman Catholic Church is called the Reformation. Discuss its causes with reference to the following:
(a) Sale of Indulgences
(b) Tithe
(c) Raising Funds to build St. Peter’s Basilica
Answer:
(a) Sale of Indulgences:
Another way of collecting money was the sale of letters which remitted punishment for sin. Those who had money would be made free from doing penance for their sins by buying a Letter of Indulgence. The clergy claimed that those who bought the Indulgences got remission of their sins by God.
(b) Tithe:
The people were required to pay ‘tithe’ (one-tenth of their income) to support churches and priests. Besides, the clergy collected another tax called ‘Peter’s pence’ from the people. The burden fell mainly on the peasants and the middle class families.
(c) Raising Funds to build St. Peter’s Basilica:
Pope Leo X wanted to build St. Peter’s Basilica (Church) with the new architectural designs. He sent emissaries to sell Indulgences and to collect funds for the new project. John Tetzel, an agent of the Pope, went to Writen berg with the mission of raising sums for the building. It provoked Martin Luther.

Question 2.
How did the following causes contribute to the 16th- century Reformation Movement in Europe:
(a) Humanist Movement
(b) Spread of New Learning
Answer:
(a) Humanist Movement:
The pretensions of the Church was much discredited by Humanist Movement. Reuchlin and Erasmus criticised the Church for its corruption and worldly business. Reuchlin brought to light many inconsistencies in the interpretation of the Bible that were made by theological scholars. The Dutch scholar Erasmus, criticized the conduct of the clergy and he wanted them to change their lifestyle. Unfortunately, Pope Leo X could not see the danger signal.

(b) Spread of New Learning:
The New Learning and the spirit of inquiry that was developed by the Renaissance scholars, the invention of printing press and printing of Bible in vernacular languages brought a complete change in people’s outlook. They now questioned superiority of the Church. It also led to the growth of secular ideas. Nobles and merchants believed that there was nothing wrong in acquiring wealth to lead a worldly life. The monarchs and capitalists were jealous of the wealth of the Church. The common people in Europe looked upon Church- taxes with contempt.

Question 3.
Early in the sixteenth century there rose in Germany Martin Luther who became the great leader of the Reformation Movement. In this context describe:
(a) Luther’s Beliefs and Doctrines
(b) Luther’s Theses
Answer:
(a) Luther’s Beliefs and Doctrines: Martin Luther belonged to a peasant family of Saxony, in Germany. After his theological education in the University of St. Augustine in 1505, he was appointed a Professor of Theology at Writenberg University. His thorough knowledge of the Bible, led him to believe that man could attain salvation only by repentance. Salvation is the Gift of God, and can be had if the penance be done. Luther questioned Tetzel’s authority to sell Indulgences and he had at once the moral support of many princes and ordinary people alike.He was shocked to learn the worldliness of the Pope, the clergy and the spiritual shallowness after he visited Rome. In 1517, he nailed on the door of the Castle-Church at Writenberg, ninety-five these is (statements), which he thought, people should know and think about carefully. The first thesis was : When our Lord and Master Jesus Christ says Repent, he means that the entire life of believers should be a repentance ?’’ Luther’s insistence was that, Tetzel was quite unscrupulous in his misinterpretation of Scripture. He questioned the power of the Pope and priests to forgive sins of all who paid, regardless of whether they sincerely regretted their actions.
(b)
When Luther visited Rome he was grieved to witness the worldliness of the Pope and the Clergy. In 1517 he nailed on the door of the Castle-Church at Writenberg Ninety-five Theses (Statements), which he thought people should know and think about carefully. The first Thesis was : “When our Lord and Master Jesus Christ says Repent, he means that the entire life of belivers should be a repentance.” All other Statements were an elaboration of this Thesis. Luther questioned the powers of Pope and priests to forgive sins of all who paid/regardless of whether they sincerely regretted their actions.

Question 4.
Lutheran Church was the Protestant Church founded on the doctrines of Martin Luther. In this context describe:
(a) Luther’s Excommunication by the Pope
(b) His success in mobilising Princes’ and People’s support
Answer:
(a) His Excommunication:
Pope Leo X, declared Martin Luther as a heretic and sent a letter, warning him that he would be excommunicated from the Church. He defiantly burnt the Papal’s Bull of Excommunication in the presence of the public at Wittenberg on December 10, 1520, thereby making his revolt. In 1521, Emperor Charles V summoned Luther to attend the Diet at Worms to answer charges levelled against him by the Pope. Though his friends and well-wishers persuaded him not/to attend, Luther appeared before the Diet to defy the Church. He boldly declared that he would not revoke any of his statements as his conscience “is taken captive by the word of God.” The Emperor issued the famous Edict of Worms, declaring Luther as heretic and ordered for his arrest.

(b) His success in mobilising princes’ and peoples’ support:
Frederick the Wise, Duke of Saxony, saved Luther’s life by forcing him to hide. Luther spent one year in a lonely castle during which time, he translated the Holy Bible from Latin to German. Many German princes who supported Luther, raised their banner of revolt against the authority of the Church and formed a League to ‘protect Luther. Those who favored the new protest movement, broke away from the Catholic Church and came to be known as Protestants. Lutheran Churches were established all over the country. It divided Germany into two factions-one group, under Emperor Charles V and the other group, under the Protestant rulers of Germany. It led to religious conflict, which took a heavy toll and ended in the Peace of Augsburg in 1555. The Peace acknowledged the right of a ruler to determine his state- religion. Lutheran subjects in Catholic states in Germany were not asked to renounce their faith. Thus, the power and prestige of the Catholic Church led by the Pope suffered a serious setback.

Question 5.
A series of measures were taken to restore the reputation of the Catholic Church. In this context answer the following questions:
(a) What is known as Counter-Reformation ?
(b) What measures were taken to introduce reforms in the Catholic Church ?
Answer:
In context of measures taken to restore the reputation of Catholic Chinch, the given questions are answered as under:
(a)
The Reformation movement greatly damaged the very foundation of the Roman Catholic Church in the 16th century and brought about the birth of the Protestant Church. In order to restore the reputation of the Catholic Church, a large number of dedicated ^Christians; including some Popes, had adopted certain reforms within the Church. A Church Council was convened at Trent, in northern Italy in 1545 by Pope Paul III
(b)
The Council of Trent took up strict measures to maintain discipline among the Church officials. The sale of Church offices was stopped. It condemned and prohibited Sale of Indulgences. Seminaries were to be started for importing education and training to priests. The Church should not charge any fees for conducting- religious services; sermons should be preached in the language of the people.The Society of Jesus was founded by Ignatius Loyola, a Spanish noble man. He took a vow to serve Christ and turned into a Missionary after studying the life of Jesus Christ and other saints. He studied theology in Sorbonne University. He founded a religious Order by the name Society of Jesus with the permission of the Pope.St. Francis Xavier was one of the Jesuit followers of Ignatius Loyola. He went to China and Japan for the propagation of Christianity. He came to India and worked till he died. His mortal – remains were placed at the Church of Bom Jesus in old Goa. The selfless and dedicated service rendered by the Jesuits helped in restoring the prestige of the Roman Catholic Church.

Question 6.
Explain the impact and consequences of the Reformation under the following headings:
(a) How Reformation led to the formation of Nation-States?
(b) How did the rulers of Nation-States work on Mercantilist theories ?
Answer:
(a)
Reformation gave rise to nationalism, particularly in Germany and England. Rulers declared them as heads of Church and government. Control on the. Church caused a common national government within the Nation States.
(b)
Mercantilism was a theory that the state should regulate economic activities in order to achieve some national objectives. It should follow the policy of ‘Protectionism’. Large nation-states had come into existence in England, France, Spain and Portugal. The rulers of these countries had imposed numerous restrictions on international trade in the national interest. Under the influence of mercantilist theories, the governments encouraged ‘Protectionism’, which meant  protecting home producers from foreign competition by taxing imported goods.

Question 7.
John Calvin was one of the later leaders of the Protestant Movement. In this context. Explain the following:
(a) Calvin’s Teachings.
(b) His large following in Europe.
Answer:
John Calvin was one of the later leaders of the Protestant Movement, In this context, the given headings are explained as follows:
(a) Calvin’s Teachings:
Calvin insisted upon the strict interpretation of the Bible. He enjoined upon all his followers a strict Code of Conduct. Places of worship were made as simple as possible and many amusements and leisurely activities were forbidden.Calvin’s important teaching was that of the Doctrine of Predestination, which he popularised in his book ‘Institutes of the Christian Religion’. This work was dedicated to the French King, Francis I. The Doctrine of Predestination stresses that it is divinely ordained that God has chosen His own Elect and man’s good works in themselves are not sufficient to ensure the Granting of Grace. God will grant righteousness to those who believe in Him, for it is by the Grace of God that man is saved.

(b) His large Following in Europe:
Calvin’s ideas and doctrines spread widely. He founded the University of Geneva. The distinguished scholars, who studied at this University spread Calvinism to Netherlands, Hungary, France, England and Scotland. Calvin’s teachings became the basis of the Presbyterian Church in Scotland. The followers of Calvin were the first English Puritans. “In their zeal for a simple form of Church service”, said Dr. Tickner, “they objected to surplice or fasting, to the use of marriage ring or baptismal cross…… or to music or procession.” Calvin was so intolerant, he persecuted and severely punished those who were free-thinkers and did not agree with his doctrines. The religion, which Calvin established, did not bring religious liberty to Europe.

Question 8.
Zwingli heralded the Protestant Movement in Switzerland. In this context describe.
(a) Main events of his life, (b) Zwingli’s Teachings.
Answer:
Zwingli heralded the Protestant Movement in Switzerland. In this context, the given heads are described below:
(a) Main events of his life:
Ulrich Zwingli heralded the, Protestant Movement in Switzerland. He was a contemporary of Martin Luther. Born at Wildhaus in 1484, he was trained as a priest. Glarus was the first town, where he became a clergyman in 1514. He studied the Greek text of the New Testament authored by Erasmus. In 1518, he became a priest at the Cathedral in Zurich. By 1520, he had become convinced of the need for reforming the Church. He developed his Protestant Theology and preached against the sale of The Catholic Bishop of Zurich tried to silence Zwingli. But by that time, he had become a “Peoples’ Priest”. The civil authorities intervened at this stage. They took charge of city’s religious affairs and called a Public Debate to decide whether people should accept Catholicism or Zwingli’s Protestantism.

After an intensive debate, Zwingli brought the majority of the people over to his side. In course of time, most of the Swiss Cantons (Provinces) were on Zwingli’s side. Only the rural communities (Forest Cantons) continued to cling to old emotional values. The conflict erupted into open warfare between Catholics and the Protestant troops. Zwingli was killed at the Battle of Kappel in 1531. Written on his gravestone are the words: “They may kill the body but not the soul.”

(b) Zwingli’s Teachings:
Zwingli accepted the Bible’s supremacy as the “Universal Priesthood of all Believers.” That means, priests did not constitute a class separate from lay people. All Believers should be regarded as priests. Zwingli considered the Lord’s Supper as a thanks-giving ceremony. According to him, the Gift of Gospel is God’s biggest  favor (Grace) for which Mankind is expressing it’s Gratitude. He believed in “total rebirth of humanity and society”. He fought for people’s right to control church and city’s religious affairs.

Question 9.
What were the results (Impacts) of the Reformation
Answer:
The results (Impacts) of the Reformation were as follows:

1. The Church was split up: It led to the birth of Protestantism. With the spread of the Protestant Movement, some of the kings and princes of Europe sided with one faction, while others with the other. Luther was supported greatly by the masses, as there was a strong feeling against the abuses of power by the Roman Church.
2. Religious Conflicts and Wars: The fanatics who never showed any respect to the sublime teachings of Jesus Christ, always encouraged cruel persecutions. Religious intolerance resulted in civil war in Germany. Subsequently, the Holy Roman Empire underwent Thirty Years War. The main object was to force the Protestant states to become Catholic. Religious frenzy drove the English Puritans to North America, that led to formation of the United States of America in the course of time.
3. Counter Reformation (Rgjform in Catholic Religion): Reformation resulted in Counter-Reformation. Roman-Catholics under the Pope at the Council of Trent, took measures to revive the prestige of the Church. Christianity became more liberal, more tolerant of different kinds of opinions.
4. The Rise of National Monarchies: Those princes who wanted to be freed of leading-strings of the Pope, stated with Martin Luther or Calvin. The Reformation assumed the form of nationalism particularly in Germany and in England. Had it not been for the support of English Parliament, Henry VIII would not have succeeded in his struggle against the Catholic Church.
5. Rapid Economic Growth: The Clergy were hurt and crashed. The new age that was dawning, was “the age of traders, bankers or financiers”. Much of the Church property had passed to the kings. Therefore, they had considerable wealth at their disposal. They could now give attention to those sufferings, poverty and beggary.

Question 10.
What forces and factors contributed to the rise of Nation-States in Europe ?
Answer:
The forces and factors that contributed to the rise of Nation­ States in Europe are as follows:

1. Political Factors (Need for a strong Control Authority): Fighting was the chief occupation of the feudal lords. People were fed up of anarchy and disorder. They were prepared to lend moral and material support to those kings who could reduce the power of the nobles. The Tudor Monarch, Henry VII (1485-1509) destroyed the power of the feudal lords in England. Cardinal Richelieu, the leading statesman of France, strengthened the authority of the French Crown. He reduced the power of the nobles. At this time, Spain and Portugal also had very powerful monarchs.
2. Economic Factors: The merchants and traders resented all such barriers as prevented them from moving from one part of the country to another. This new class gave presents and also advanced loans to the kings that added to their military strength. The kings could now raise their independent armies to crush the plots and rebellions of their nobles.
3. Intellectual Factors (Renaissance): Science and literature also forged ahead during this period. England, Italy, France and Spain produced writers, inspired by nationalist ideas. Machiavelli, for instance, wanted to unite Italy under a strong central government. In his book ‘ The Prince’ He pleaded for a strong monarchy for Italians at that time.
4. Religious Factors (Reformation): In view of the Protestant revolt, many princes of Germany and other European kings, sided with Reformation. They now, declared themselves as heads of the Church as well as of the Government. The kings had already crushed the feudal lords. Now, another great rival of the Crown
   i.e the Church also submitted to king’s authority. That completed the edifice of a Nation-State. In England, it was king Henry VIII (1509-1547) who championed the cause of Protestantism. He got the English Parliament to pass the Act of Supremacy to nullify Pope’s power over the churches in England. This made the king, the supreme Head of the Church of England.

ADDITIONAL QUESTIONS

Short Answer Questions:

Question 1.
What is known as the Reformation ?
Answer:
It is the 16th century movement in Europe for the reform of the Church and the objectionable practices of the clergyman.

Question 2.
What are known as indulgences ?
Answer:
Pope Leo X wanted to build St. Peter’s Church. So he issued “pardon certificates” called ‘Indulgences” to those who gave money to build the Church. ‘Indulgences’ were letters which remitted punishments of the sinners who bought them, both in this life and after their death.

Question 3.
What is known as the Protestant Movement ?
Answer:
In the second quarter of 16th century, Martin Luther, a German clergyman and professor of Theology at University of Writenburg, openly criticised papacy (office of pope). He accused the Church for the sale of indulgences. In 1512, in a pilgrimage to Rome he found the clergymen living in luxurious life. He strongly opposed the Church. The ‘Diet of Worms’ (council of Princes and high dignitaries in 1521) ordered to burn the writings of Luther and to outlaw him. But the support of German rulers saved him and the movement was described as the German Protestant Movement.

Question 4.
How did Luther challenge the authority of the Church?
Answer:
Luther (1483-1546), openly challenged the Church, on the basis of false practices and drawbacks practiced by the Church and clergymen. He wrote 95 theses or statements dealing with the gap between the beliefs and practices of the Church and nailed them on the Church door at Writenburg.

Question 5.
What is known as the Diet of Worms ? What did it decide about Luther ?
Answer:
‘Diet of Worms’ was a council of Princes and high dignitaries in 1521, which ordered to burn the writings of Martin Luther and to outlaw him.

Question 6.
What role did Henry VIII play in curbing the power of the Pope ?
Answer:
King Henry VIII of England hardly cared for the Pope. He got the Church lands and in 1536 passed an Act for the dissolution of monasteries, whereby small monasteries with an income of less than £200 a year were closed and their buildings, land and money taken by the Crown. By another Act of 1539, larger monasteries were closed. Henry’s lavish lifestyle, along with his wars, had led to a lack of money. By destroying the monastic system, Henry could acquire all its wealth and property, while at the same time removing the influence of the Pope.

Question 7.
What was the Counter Reformation ? What were its consequences ?
Answer:
The Reformation Movement was against the Roman Catholic Church in the 16th Century and brought about the birth of Protestant Church. So, Catholic Church through dedicated Christians and some Popes introduced certain reforms within the Church. This movement is known as the Counter Reformation. A Church Council was held at Trent in northern Italy in 1545 by Pope Paul III.

Question 8.
What were the decisions made by the Church Council at Trent ?
Answer:
The Council of Trent (1545-1563) made a number of changes in the Catholic Church. It expanded its doctrines in the light of the changed attitudes of the times. It condemned leading an irresponsible religious life by the clergy. Books, which were considered to have had ideas against the Catholic teaching were banned. The Pope was regarded as the head of the Catholic Church and the final interpreter of the Christian doctrine. The Council of Trent was responsible for establishing centers known as seminaries to educate and train priests. It forbade the Church to charge fees for conducting religious services, and advocated the use of the local language for preaching in the Church.

Question 9.
Who was John Calvin ? By what names were the Calvanists known in different countries ?
Answer:
John Calvin (1509-1564), a French scholar, popularised the Protestant movement in Switzerland after the death of Zwingli,who declared Bible as the sole authority. Calvanists were known as the ‘Puritans’ in England, ‘Huguenots’ in France and ‘Presbyterians’ in Scotland.

Question 10.
Who was Ulrich Zwingli ?
Answer:
He was a French reformer and declared the Bible as the sole authority for attaining salvation.

Question 11.
What role did Henry VIII help to. spreading the Protestant movement in England ?
Answer:
At first, Tuder ruler Henry VIII was a devout Catholic Christian and also wrote a book in praise of the Pope, but afterwards, due to some personal reasons, he stood against the Catholic Church. He made himself the Supreme Head of the Church of England.

Question 12.
Which of the two divisions of the Church prevailed in the Scandanivian countries ?
Answer:
Two divisions of the Church prevailed in the Scandanivian countries were Protestant Lutheran Church and Roman Catholic Church.

Question 13.
What were the important terms of the Peace of Augsburg in 1555 ?
Answer:
The Peace of Augsburg in 1555, in Germany was based on the terms of the spirit of nationalism and strengthened absolute monarchies.

Question 14.
Define a Nation State ?
Answer:
The Nation State refers to a country with well defined natural boundaries, having people with common history, culture and character.

Question 15.
How did the feudal societies contribute to the emergence of Nation States.
Answer:
During the feudal (landlord system) times, there was unrest and disorder. Continuous fighting resulted in collapsing the system and so to save the pattern Nation States were created with particular creed and character.

Question 16.
How did Reformation cause formation of Nation States?
Answer:
Reformation gave rise to nationalism, particularly in Germany and England. Rulers declared them as heads of Church and government. Control on the Church caused a common national government within the Nation States.

Question 17.
Name two achievements of Nation States.
Answer:
Establishment of Nation States, gave a peaceful system of the common religion of the king and the people. This imparted a practical and simple government dealing with the common interests of the king and the people within Nation States.

Structured Questions:

1. With reference to the Reformation, explain the following:
Question 1(a).
The meaning of Reformation.
Answer:
The Reformation is the name given to a group of religious movements of sixteenth century launched by the Christians against the various drawbacks of the Church and the objectionable practices of the clergymen. The main target of these movements was the Pope, the highest authority in the Church hiearchy. These movements created a split in the Christian Church between those who continued to remain loyal to the Pope at Rome and those who broke away from the Church at Rome. The former were known as Roman Catholics and the latter as Protestants.

Question 1(b).
Who were the Protestants ? By what other names was Protestantism known ?
Answer:
The Christian who broke away from the Church at Rome was known as Protestants. An extreme form of Protestantism was Calvinism. Presbyterianism of Scotland and Puritanism of England were similar to Calvinism in simplicity, strictness and austerity. Although these movements were organised by different people under different names, they are collectively termed as Reformation because they were aimed at reforming the then existing Church.

2. With reference to the Reformation, answer the following:
(a) Mention any three Church practices that caused dissatisfaction among the people.
(b) How did New Learning become a factor that led to the reformation ?
Answer:
Question 2(a).
Dissatisfaction with the practices of the Catholic

1. Church: The Catholic Church, during the early medieval period, had become a vast hierarchical organisation headed by the Pope if Rome. The Pope was the supreme authority over the entire hierarchy and he exercised this authority directly. Systematic efforts were made to extend the authority of the Church over everyone, high or low. But during the 14th century, people became dissatisfied with some of the Church practices and this dissatisfaction paved the way for Reformation.
2. Corruption in the Church: Moral decay crept into some areas in the functioning of the Church. Some of the clergymen lacked proper education and some lived in luxury and neglected their religious duties. The priests promised salvation in exchange for fees. They could pronounce a marriage lawful or unlawful. In fact, there were fees for every transaction in life, from birth to death, fees for the peace of the soul and fees for the souls of the people dead long ago. These practices were severely criticised and opposed by the people.
3. Movement against the Church: Anti-Church movements began in Europe in the middle ages. These movements directed their attacks on the wrong doings of the Church. John Wycliffe, an English priest and Oxford professor, criticised the worldliness of the Church and some of its practices. He laid emphasis on the Bible as the sole guide for salvation. The Church ordered his expulsion from the Oxford University where he was teaching. This create dissatisfaction among the scholars.

Question 2(b).
New Learning: The spread of new learning and spin of inquiry was developed by Renaissance scholars. The invention of printing press and the printing of the Bible in vernacular languages brought a new outlook among laymen. The Renaissance encouraged spirit of inquiry, developed critical attitude and broadened the mental outlook of man. The people then began to question everything including the authority of the Pope. They criticised the Church practices, rituals and the lifestyles of some of the clergymen. New learning led to a secular outlook among the people. Nobles and merchants were jealous of the wealth of the Church. The common people in Europe looked upon the Church taxes with contempt. The changing attitude of the people towards the Church led to the growth of secular ideas.

Question 3.
With respect to the Protestant Movement, answer the following questions.
(a) Why did Martin Luther rise in revolt against the Church?
(b) What action did the Diet of Worms take against Martin Luther ?
(c) What was known as Schmal kaldic League ? What was its contribution ?
Answer:
Diet of Worms consisting of Council of Princes and high dignitaries in 1521. The Diet ordered that Luther’s writings be burnt and Luther be outlawed. But Luther had the support of German rulers ; and so no harm was done to him.
(a)
He accused the Church for sale of ‘indulgences’ He wrote 95 theses in revolt against the difference between beliefs and practices.
(b)
‘Diet of Worms ’ was a council of Princes and high class people in 1521. The Diet ordered to burn the writings of Martin Luther and to outlaw him.
(c)
Lutheranism was recognised as a legal form of Christianity by the Treaty known as “The Peace of Augsburg’ in AD 1555; this Treaty was signed between the ‘Schmalkaldic League’, formed by Luther and some German Princes) and the Roman Catholic Church after a long civil war. In Germany, the southern states continued to remain loyal to the Catholic Church whereas the Northern states accepted Lutheranism.

Question 4
State the contribution of each of the following to the protestant movement.
(a) John Calvin;
(b) King Henry VIII of England
(c) Ulrich Zwingli
Answer:
(a)
John Calvin: A French Scholar, popularised the Protestant movement in Switzerland. Calvanists disliked feasting on a  lavish scale.
(b)
King Henry VIII: He became against the Church due to not receiving a permission from the Pope, he broke away from the Catholic Church and made himself the Supreme Head of the Church in England.
(c)
Ulrich Zwingli: He spread Lutheranism in Switzerland. He regarded the Bible as the sole guide to right living. He was killed in a religious war against the Pope that broke out in AD 1531.

5. The respect to the growth of Nation States, answer the following questions:
Question 5(a)
How did the Reformation contribute to emergence of Nation States.
Answer:
On account of the disorder and unrest during the feudal times, people came to the conclusion that there must be a peaceful condition and atmosphere with peaceful and amicable . relationship which could only be possible through formation of the Nation States with common creed and religion.

Question 5(b) 
Describe the other factors that contributed to growth of Nation States.
Answer:
Main factors that contributed to growth ofNation States were as follows:

1. Rise of nationalism
2.  Church were submitted to King’s authority.
3. Rulers opposed the Supremacy of Church.
4. After the long tussle between the rulers and the Church, after Reformation religion of the King became the religion of the people and at last the Nation States came into existence.

6. With reference to Mercantilism answer the following questions:
Question 6(a) 
What is meant by the term Mercantilism ?
Answer:
Mercantilism refers to a collection of economic maxims of strict practical utility aimed at maintaining a favorable  balance of trade by discouraging imports and encouraging exports. These were meant to ensure the prosperity and security of the state.

Question 6(b) 
Explain briefly the basic principles of Mercantilism.
Answer:
The basic principles of mercantilism were identical in all the countries. These were the following:

1. Foreign Trade: The Mercantilists believed that the strength and richness of a country depends on two things — the possession of gold and silver mines and favorable balance of trade. As all the countries did not have mines of gold and silver, they could built up stocks of these metals by exporting maximum of their manufactured goods and importing minimum of commodities from other countries. They, therefore, insisted on discouraging imports through imposition of heavy duties and prohibition on foreign goods and encouraging exports by promoting domestic agriculture and industry.
2. Importance of Wealth: Mercantilists considered wealth as the sources of all power and laid great emphasis on the importance of gold and silver.
3. Interest: Mercantilists favored charging of low rate of interest on the money as it could be profitably employed in trade to make profit. The high rates of interest made the money scare.
4. Factors of Production: Mercantilists considered the land and the labor as the sole factors of production. Most of them laid emphasis on the need to increase production to attain self ­sufficiency in food-stuffs and to encourage exports. They laid emphasis on the cultivation of wastelands to increase production in agriculture.
5. Large Population: Mercantilism emphasised the need of having large population for increasing production and participation in war. They regarded large population as the real strength of the community as it made inventions and developed industries which brought riches.to the nation.
6. Commercial Regulations: For the maintenance of a favorable balance of trade the mercantilists favored commercial regulations. The European countries frame  regulations to restrict the import of foreign goods and encourage exports.

 

ICSE Solutions for Class 9 History and Civics – The Mughal Empire

ICSE SolutionsSelina ICSE SolutionsML Aggarwal Solutions

EXERCISES

Question 1.
Name any two sources to reconstruct the Age of the Mughals.
Answer:
Ain-i-Akbari and Akbamamah.

Question 2.
Who wrote Ain-i-Akbari.
Answer:
The author of Ain-i-Akbari is Abul Fazal.

Question 3.
What information does Abul Fazl provide about Akbar’s Admiralty Department ?
Answer:
Abul Fazl write of ‘Admiratly Department’ whose functions were

1. To build boats and
2. To recruit skilled seamen.

Question 4.
Name any two monuments that help to reconstruct the history of the Mughals.
Answer:
The Agra Fort and Humayun’s Tomb.

Question 5.
Name the two magnificent buildings within the Red Fort.
Answer:

1. Diwan-i-Aam: A public Darbar hall and a
2. Diwan-i-Khas: A lavishly-ornamented hall where the Peacock Throne was placed. The hall was used by the emperor to give audience to the princes of the royal family, nobles and other important dignitaries.

Question 6.
Mention any two architectural features of the Jama Masjid at Delhi.
Answer:

1. It is build on a lofty basement, about 9 m high and 1170 sq m in area. There are three gateways to the mosque, approached by majestic flights of steps on the South, North and Eastern sides. The Eastern Gateway, the highest and largest of all, was reserved for the use of Mughal Emperors only. The three gateways give access to an open courtyard.
2. At its four external corners are placed twelve-pillared kiosks surmounted by marble domes. The central dome is the largest and highest.
3. On the north and southern sides there are two elegant minarets, each rising to a total height of about 40 m and divided into three stages, each having a projected gallery.
4. The face of the spacious prayer-hall consists of eleven arches of which the central arch rises far above the roof level.

Question 7.
In whose memory was the Taj Mahal built ?
Answer:
The Taj Mahal was buit by Shah Jahan’s in memory of beloved Queen Mumtaz Mahal.

Question 8.
Whom did Babur defeat at the battlefield of Panipat? What was its consequence?
Answer:
In April 1526 Babur defeated Sultan Ibrahim Lodi at the battlefield of Panipat.His victory was indeed a success of “consummate leadership” and “superior weapons” that he had acquired from Turkey. Babur was the king of India. The most formidable chieftain against whom Babur had yet to fight was Rana Sanga of Mewar, who had organised a huge confederacy of Rajputs against the Mughal invader. The victory of Khanua, a village near Agra, gave Babur complete control over the Central India.

Question 9.
What was the result of Babur’s encounter with a huge confederacy of Rajputs at Khanua?
Answer:
Babur’s encounter with a huge confederacy of Rajputs at Khanua, resulted in the victory of Babur. The victory gave Babur complete control over the Central India.

Question 10.
What is the significance of the Second Battle of Panipat (1556)?
Answer:
The second Battle of Panipat was fought between Hemu, a nephew of Sher Shah Suri and the Mughals in November 1556. In this battle, the Afghan army was defeated and Hemu was captured and killed.

Question 11.
Name any two Deccan territories included in Akbar’s empire.
Answer:
Ahmadnagar, Bijapur and Golconda.

Question 12.
What was Akbar’s Mansabdari System ?
Answer:
The mansabdari system introduced by Akbar was a unique feature of the administrative system of the Mughal gmpire.The mansabdars formed the ruling group of the Mughal empire with a rank of (mansab). With a great power of civil and army control the rank ranged from number 10 to 5000 for nobles. The ranks were again divided into ‘zat’ and ‘sawar’. For every ten cavalrymen, the mansabdar had to maintain twenty horses.

Question 13.
Akbar’s Din-I-Ilahi was based on what principles or beliefs ?
Answer:
It is based on the principles of oneness of God, stressing on virtues like courage, loyalty and justice.

Question 14.
Name any two Departments of Government during the Mughal Age.
Answer:

1. The Military Pay and Accounts Office held by Mir Bakshi.
2. Imperial Household Department held by Khan-i-Saman.
3. The Judiary under the Chief Qazi.

Question 15.
Who was at the head of the Finance Department under Mughal rule.
Answer:
Diwan was the head of the Finance Department under Mughal rule.

Question 16.
Name the master architect who designed the Taj Mahal.
Answer:
Ustad Isa was the architect who designed the Taj Mahal.

Question 17.
Diwan-i-Khas in the Red Fort was used by the Emperor for what purpose ?
Answer:
The Diwan-i-Khas: It is the lavishly-ornamented hall where the Peacock Throne was placed. The hall was used by the emperor to give audience to the princes of the royal family, nobles and other important dignitaries.

Question 18.
Mention any two factors responsible for Humayun’s failure against Sher Shah Suri.
Answer:
Two factors responsible for Humayun’s failure against Sher Shah Suri were:

1. Humayun was far less able soldier and general than his father.
2. He seemed incapable of a sustained and continued policy.

Question 19.
Mention any two revenue reforms instituted by Sher Shah Suri.
Answer:
Two revenue reforms instituted by Sher Shah Suri were:

1. Sher Shah Suri developed a systematic method of measuring the land.
2. He assessed the land-revenue and collected it with great earnestness.

Question 20.
What is the significance of Akbar’s Mansabdari system?
Answer:
Under mansabdari system, the capable candidates were chosen the Mansabdars by the emperor Akbar. They were directly appointed by the emperor and they acted both as military commanders and civil administrators. This system made quite easy to administer the vast kingdom efficiently and conveniently.

Question 21.
Mention the nature of Akbar’s Din-I-Ilahi.
Answer:
Din-I-Ilahi was the new cult introduced by the emperor Akbar in 1580. It was based on the belief that there is only one God and required its members to accept such virtues as courage, chastity and justice. It also demanded loyalty to the Emperor.

Question 22.
How did Jahangir deal with the Sikh Guru, Guru Arjun Dev?
Answer:
Jahangir tortured and executed the Sikh Guru, Guru Arjun Dev.

Question 23.
Why was the title of ‘Shah Jahan’ conferred on Prince Khurram by Jahangir ?
Answer:
Prince Khurram was got married to the daughter of Asaf Khan, who was appointed Khan-i-Saman under the emperor Jahangir’s rule. Asaf Khan was also the brother to Begum Nur Mahal (Nur Jahan) who was the wife of Jahangir. Keeping all these things in mind, the title of ‘Shah Jahan was conferred on Prince Khurram.

Question 24.
Who was Nur Jahan?
Answer:
Nur Jahan was the widow of a Persian nobleman, Sher Afghan. Jahangir married Nur Jahan.

Question 25.
Why did Shah Jahan revolt against his father?
Answer:
Jahangir was fully under the influence of his spouse, Nur Jahan, who was a far-slighted woman and bore the dream at her heart to become the sole Empress. Shah Jahan smelled her political ambition. All this resulted in a rift between Nur Jahan and Shah Jahan. Shah Jahan at last, decided to raise a revolt against his father Jahangir.

Question 26.
Metnion Shah Jahan’s conquests in the Deccan.
Answer:
In the Deccan, Shah Jahan conquered Ahmadnagar, Bijapur and Golconda.

Question 27.
Where is Humayun’s Tomb located? Mention any two features of the monument.
Answer:
Humayun’s Tomb is located at Delhi under the instructions of his wife, Hamida Banu Begum. The monument rests on a high square platform and has archways on each side. Each archway opens into a room. The monument has a bulbous marble dome with slightly curved outlines arising from a narrower “neck”.

STRUCTURED QUESTIONS

Question 1.
Akbar had both the time and inclination to look at the administrative problems of the Empire. In this context describe birefly.
(a) His Mansabdari System
(b) His Land Revenue System
Answer:
(a) Mansabdari System:
Akbar introduced the mansabdari system to organise his armed forces more effectively. All imperial officers except the qazis and sadars, were enrolled as members of mansabdari system and were reuined to maintain some troops proportionate, to their ranks. The Mansabdari held their appointments directly from the emperor. They got their remuneration in cash not in the form of land grants. In addition to meeting their personal expenses, the Mansabdar had to maintain out of his salary a required quota of horses, elephants mules and carts. The Mughal Mansabdari were required to serve in whatever place or capacity the Emperor desired. They acted both as military commanders and civil administrators. By giving them handsome salaries and high status, Akbar was able to recruit men of remarkable capabilities to the service of the empire. Mansabdari status was not hereditary. The Mansabdars could be promoted or dismissed by the Emperor.

(b) His Land Revenue System:
No efforts were made to improve the land system prevailing in the country in the early part of Akbar’s reign. It was only after, when Todar Mai became the Diwan-i-Ashraf (head of the land revenue department.) Todar mal devised a system based on

1. A survey and measurement of land,
2. classification of land according to its productive capacity, and
3. fixation of rates payable in cash or kind by the cultivators.

Another important change that Akbar made was the introduction of the dahsala system. Under this system the average produce of different kinds of lands as well the prices of the last ten (dah) years were collected from the government records. The land revenue was fixed at one- third of the average produce. The benefit of the system was that there was now no necessity of settling the land revenue every year. The work of revenue collection was therefore expedited. In brief, Todar Mal started a system that enriched the state treasury without impoverishing the cultivators. The state advanced loans 10 the needy farmers. As a result, agriculture flourished that boosted trade and industry also.

Question 2.
Akbar was the greatest of all medieval rulers of India. In this context describe: His policy of racial pacification and religious tolerance.
Answer:
His Policy of Conciliation and Synthesis:
Akbar sought to bring about racial and religious conciliation in the country. Jiziya was abolished and the state services were opened for the Hindus, especially Rajput princes. The Emperor patronised Hindu writers and artists and welcomed matrimonial alliances with the Rajput families. In 1580, the Emperor promulgated a new cult called Din-i-Ilahi. It was based on the belief that there is only one God and required its members to accept such virtues as courage, chastity and justice. It also demanded loyalty to the Emperor. The new cult could not have many followers and it was never imposed.

PQ. Shah Jahan’s reign marks the climax of the Mughal dynasty and  empire. In this context explain briefly:
(a) His Conquests.
(b) Magnificence of the Imperial Court and his Architectural. Achievements.
Answer:
Shah Jahan’s reign marks the climax of the Mughal dynasty and empire.
In this context the given headlines are explained below:
(a)
His Conquests: In 1632, Shah Jahan started his military campaign against Ahmadnagar. He annexed Ahmadnagar. He ordered the states of Bijapur and Golconda to submit to Mughal authority. The Emperor himself marched to Deccan to seek compliance to his. orders. The ruler of Golconda acknowledged the Mughal suzerainty in 1636, but military action was needed to bring Bijapur into submission.In the North-West, the Mughals had suffered some reverses after Akbar’s death. Shah Jahan wanted to recover Kandhar which he did in 1638. But the Mughals could not retain it for long, because the Shah of Iran captured it again inl649. Three major campaigns to recover Kandhar failed and Kandhar was lost to the Mughals for good. The Emperor was successful in suppressing the revolt of Jujhar Singh, son of Bir Singh Bundela.
(b)
Magnificence of the Imperial Court and his Architectural Achievements: Shah Jahan modelled his court after the style of the old Persian monarchs. The exquisite Peacock Throne and the celebrated Kohinoor added to the magnificence of his court. Shah Jahan patronised men of letters and arts. The famous Taj at Agra and Jami Masjid at Delhi are some of the finest examples of Mughal architecture of his time. Music and painting also made great progress under Shah Jahan’s patronage.

Question 3.
Aurangzeb died forlorn and destitute. In this context, explain briefly:
(a) His dealings with the Sikh
(b) His attempts to suppress rebellion in the Deccan.
Answer:
Aurangzeb died forlorn and destitute. In this context, the given headlines are explained as under:
(a)
His dealings with the Sikh Gurus: Aurangzeb was a fanatic Fundamentalist (Sunni) Muslim ruler. He adopted a rigid policy, especially for the Hindus and emphatically converted them into Islam. The Hindu pandits from Kashmir, approached the Ninth Sikh Guru, Guru Tegh Bahadar at Anandpur Sahib in Punjab and they grieved and sought the help of the Guru to relieve them from the atrocities of Aurangzeb. Aurangzeb got infuriated at this act of the Guru to assist the Kashmiri, pandits. He captured Guru Tegh Bahadar and took him to Delhi. He kept forth the option of embracing Islam or facing death before the Guru. Seeing the Guru not converting his denomination and denying to adopt the Islam religion, Aurangzeb beheaded the Guru openly at a place called Chandani Chowk in Delhi. Now, there is erected the Gurudwara Sisganj in the memory of the martyred Sikh Guru, Guru Tegh Bahadar. In 1704, the Mughals attacked the fort of Anandpur, a fierce battle was fought between the Sikhs and the Mughals. Guru Gobind Singh, who led the Sikh warriors, fought heroically. His two sons Zorawar Singh and Fateh Singh, were captured and were bricked alive when they refused to adopt Islam. The Guru’s last encounter with Mughal forces took place at the battlefield of Muktsar, it claimed a huge loss of lives of the soldiers. Thus, an unending enmity existed between the Mughals and the Sikhs that continued even after the departing of Guru Gobind Singh.
(b)
His attempts to suppress rebellion in the Deccan: Shivaji was succeeded by his elder son Shambhaji. A new dimension that was added to the events in Deccan was the arrival of the rebel Prince Akbar at the Maratha Court. Aurangzeb feared that the Prince, the Marathas and the Sultans of Bijapur and Golconda could forge an alliance against the Empire. He therefore, reached the Deccan in 1681. He sought to crush the Marathas, but his efforts did not bear the desired results. He could annex Bijapur in 1686 and then came the fall of Golconda also. Shambhaji was also defeated, captured and killed in 1689. The Deccan, now seemed to be under the control of the Mughal Emperor. But the Marathas did not allow themselves to be carried into submission. They enthroned Shambhaji’s younger brother Raja Ram on the throne. When the Mughal army besieged  their Capital, they fled towards Jinji. The Mughals captured Shambhaji’s wife and her nine-year old son Sahuji. The Mughal- Maratha contest continued for many years. When Raja Ram died in 1700, his widow Tara Bai declared her four-year old son, Shivaji II, the king.From 1700-1705 Aurangzeb, though ill-managed to drag himself from the siege of one fort to another. After nearly twenty-five years of direct military action in southern India, Aurangzeb died at Aurangabad in 1707 – with little success, but substantial loss of wealth, prestige and self-esteem.

Question 4.
Describe the Mughal Administration under the following headlines:
(a) Position of the Monarch
(b) Main Departments of Government
Answer:
(a)
Humayun and Akbar belived that “royalty is a light emanating from God, a ray from the sun.” The Mughal state was a “centralized autocracy”. In other words, the king’s powers were unlimited. He was the “head of the government, the commander of the armed forces and the fountain of justice.” He was also the chief legislator, because his word was law.
(b)
The highest position below the Emperor was held by the Vizier, but the Exchequer (Finance Department) was in the hands of the Diwan.
Other important departments were:

1. The Military Pay and Accounts Office held by Mir Bakshi.
2. Imperial Household Department held by Khan-i-Saman.
3. The Judiciary under the Chief Qazi.

The other Officers, somewhat lower in status-were:

1. Daroga-i-Topkhana (head of the artillery)
2. The Daroga of the Mint, and
3. Mir Arz the officer-in­charge of Petitions seeking favour of the Monarch.

Question 5.
Describe the Mughal Administration with reference to the following:
(a) The Army and the Navy
(b) Administration of Law and Justice
Answer:
(a)
The armed forces were composed of

1. Infantry
2. Cavalry
3. Artillery
4. Navjy and
5. War elephants.
   The artillery consisted of two sections — heavy guns, and the light artillery. The heavy guns were used for assaulting forts. The functions of the Admirality Department were
   1. To build boats
   2. To recruit professional seamen, and
   3. To collect river duties and tolls. The Navy was used for the suppression of piracy as well as for war. With the development of the flint-gun, the infantry had also become a powerful fighting force during the 17th century. An important factor that harmed the efficiency of the Mughal army was that the soldiers did not owe direct allegiance to the Emperor. They were more attached to their immediate officers. The Army looked like a “moving city”, with a portion of the ‘harem’ (wives of the nobles and chief officers), their offices the attendants, musicians and the soldiers moving from place to place during a war. This sort of affairs naturally brought in luxury and “indiscipline” in the army.

(b)
The Chief Qazi was the principal judicial officer in the realm. He appointed Qazis for the provinces. Justice was administered by Qazis, Muftis and Mir-adls. The Muftis acted as advocates; they interpreted the Muslim law. The Mir-adls drew up and announced judgement. Fines could be imposed and severe punishments, like amputaton of hand or leg could be inflicted by the courts without any reference to the Emperor, but capital punishment (death penalty) required Emperor’s sanction. Above all these courts was the Emperor himself.

PQ. Give an account of the social developments during the Mughal Age under the following headlines:
(a) Social Structure
(b) Position of Women
Answer:
(a)
The society comprised of, an general, three classes of people;

1. Princes and the Nobles,
2. The Middle Class, and
3. The lower orders,i.e., the Ordinary People, the peasants and the laborers. As regards the princes and the nobles, they rolled in wealth and luxury, Costly silks and precious jewels graced their persons and beautiful carpets decked their dining halls. They ate the choicest food and could taste the choicest ‘ wines. They lived in highly decorated palatial buildings. Many of them kept men and women as slaves who could be bought and sold as they liked. The middle classes, i.e., the merchants, traders, artists, musicians, scholars and those belonging to the class of priests and the clergy had a living standard suited to their respective professions. The living conditions of the lower orders were hard. The landless peasants and laborers could eke out a bare existence. Towards the end of Shah Jahan’s reign, the peasants got much harassed by the revenue officials. Whenever there was a famine it was this class of peasants who suffered the most.

(b)
The position of women was in many respects pitiful. The child marriage was a standing social evil. Akbar tried to check girls’ marriage before puberty, but his attempts did not seem to have been effective. Polygamy also was not uncommon. Moreover, Safi system was prevalent in Hindu society. The efforts of Akbar, Jahangir and Aurangzeb failed to uproot this evil. Despite constraints, instances of women taking on active part in social and political affairs are many. Rani Durgavati, Chand Sultana, Nur Jahan, Jijabai and Jahanara were highly alented women, who have left an enduring reputation behind.

PQ. The Growing harmony between various religious communities was a marked feature of social life during the reigns of rulers from Akbar to Shah Jahan. In this context explain briefly:
(a) Growing harmony between Hindus and Muslims
(b) Growth of the Bhakti Movement and Sufism in the Mughal period.
Ans.
(a)
The growing harmony between Hindus and Muslims was a marked feature of the social life at that time. Akbar’s liberalism went a great way to heal the rift between the two communities. The Jiziya (poll tax on the non-Muslims) was abolished and state services were opened for the Hindus, especially the Rajput princes. Akbar’s marriages with Hindu princesses led to the introduction of Hindu customs into the palace and Durga Puja was celebrated within the palace then and afterwards. On the other hand, Mughal etiquette, Mughal dress and dishes were adopted by the Hindu zamindars and people having a high social rank. The Muslims of high rank often took part in the Holi and Diwali festivals with their Hindu friends.
(b)
The Bhakti tradition continued to grow and several new cults had arisen in the 17th and 18th centuries. One of the most prominent saints of Maharashtra was Tukaram. Sufism also ‘ had a profound influence on society during the period. Akbar was deeply influenced by the mysteries of Sufism and teachings of the Hindu saints. Throughout the period, the Bhakti school of Shri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu held the field in Bengal and Orissa. In Rajasthani, Gujarat and South India also the Bhakti Movement retained its popularity. Raja Man Singh of Amber, in Rajasthan, was one of the greatest patrons of Vaishnavism.

Question 6.
Study the picture of the Red Ford and answer the following questions:
(a) Where is the Fort located ?
(b) Name the ruler who built it ?
(c) Mention two important buildings within its enclosure
(d) Mention three important features of the Fort
(e) Mention one occasion when the Fort is used by the Government of India
Answer:
On the basis of the study of the picture of the Red Fort, the given questions are answered below:
(a) The Red Fort is located in Delhi.
(b) The Mughal emperor, Shah Jahan built it during the period 1639-1648.
(c) Within this fort, there are magnificent buildings, including a public Darbar hall (Diwan-I-Aam) and Diwan-I-Khas.
(d) The Fort has massive walls around it, in which there are two Gateways. The western Gateway, known as the Lahori Gate, was used for ceremonial purposes and the other gateway for private use; The Diwan-I-Khas is the lavishly ornamented hall, where the Peacock Throne was placed.
(e) Every year on August 15, the Prime Minister of India addresses the nation from its ramparts to commence the Independence Day celebrations.

Question 7.
Identify the picture given below and answer the following question:
(a) Where is it located ?
(b) By whom was it built ?
(c) Name the architect who designed the monument
(d) Mention two architectural features of the monument.

Answer:
On the basis -of the Study of the picture of the Taj Mahal, the given questions are answered below:
(a) The Taj Mhhal is located at Agra.
(b) It was built bv Shah Jahan.
(c) Ustad Isa designed the monument.
(d)

1. It is made of pure  white marble
2. It stands on a raised platform and is surmounted by cupolas at each corner
3. Four Minarets stand at each corner of the terrace.

Question 8.
The Mughal rulers of India were patrons of learning and scholars. In this context, describe briefly:
(a) The growth of Persian Literature in those times.
(b) The growth of Hindi Literature during the age of the Mughals.
Answer:
The Mughal rulers of India were patrons of learning and scholars. In this context, the given questions are described as under:
(a)
The Persian language made a tremendous progress under the patronage of the Mughal emperors. Akbar’s court had many Persian scholars who migrated to India. One of the eminent historians of Akbar’s court was Abul Fazal, who wrote Ain-i-Akbari, gives information about the legal and revenue-systems of Akbar’s administration. While Akbarnama is about the life of Akbar and the Mughals in general. Two other historians of Akbar’s reign were Nizam-ud-din Ahmad, who wrote Tabakat-i-Akbari and Badauni, who wrote Muntakhab-ut-Twarikh. Akbar encouraged the translation of Sanskrit literary works into the Persian language. Different sections of the Mahabharata were translated into Persian and compiled into a book. Badauni completed the translation of the Ramayana. Abul Fazal translated the Panchatantra. Faizi was a renowned scholar who translated many Hindu classics into Persian.The translation of Sanskrit works in Persian continued under Jahangir.

(b)
Tulsidas was a great poet of the Rama cult, he wrote Ram Gitawali. His most famous work is Ram Charitmanas, singing the noble deeds of Lord Rama. It is a masterpiece of Hindi literature. Surdas wrote Sursagar which describes episodes from Krishna’s early life. Many scholars adorned the court of Akbar, who encouraged Hindi Literature. Akbar’s courtiers—Birbal, Raja Man Singh and Raja Bhagwan Das—were known for their poetic works in Hindi. Akbar conferred the title ‘Kavipriya’ on Birbal for his poetic works. Abdur Rahim Khan-i-Khanan was the most distinguished Hindi poet of Akbar’s court. Till today, his dohas in Hindi have been greatly appreciated and read with interest. Malik Muhammad Javasi, one of the most well-known writers of Hindi, wrote the epic Padmawat. Sundar, who wrote Sundar Sringar was given the title ’Mahakavi Rai’ by Emperor Shahjahan.

Question 9.
What role did the following factors play in decline and downfall of the Mughal Empire:
(a) Aurangzeb’s policies.
(b) Incompetence of the Later Mughals.
(c) Foreign Invasions.
Answer:
The given factors played a significant role in the decline and downfall of the Mughal Empire, which are as explained as follows:
(a)  Aurangzeb’s Policies:
Aurangzeb was an orthodox Sunni Muslim. His personal life and austerity won him the support of the Muslim clergy who called him a Zinda Pir, a Living Saint. In 1669, the Emperor forbade the building of new temples and permitted the destruction of a few existing temples as well. The temples at Mathura and Varanasi became special targets of attack. He reimposed the old Jiziya on Hindus. This naturally cost him the sympathy and support of the Hindus, particularly, the Rajputs who had been the pillars of the Mughal Empire.

(b) Incompetence of the Later Mughals:
The later Mughals were incompetent and did not have the skills that were needed to keep the system in working order. They let the affairs drift in their own way. R.C. Majumdar writes, “Province after province the Deccan, Oudth and Bengal slipped out of imperial control.” The Marathas, the Jats and Sikhs had also become very’ powerful by now. And in 1739, Nadir Shah, returned home laden with immense treasure including the famous Peacock Throne and the Kohinoor The invasion left the empire “bleeding and prostrate.” The last Mughal Emperor Bahadur Shah II was a symbolic head of the Great Uprising of 1857. He was imprisoned and banished to Rangoon, where he died in 1862.

(c) Foreign Invasions:
In 1739, the Emperor of Delhi was literally at the mercy of Nadir Shah. The already Shrunk Mughal empire was left exposed to further invasions. Ahmad Shah Abdali led a number of expeditions and in 1757, he advanced into India as far as Delhi. In 1759, he finally conquered the Punjab. Since Marathas had also become strong contenders for supremacy in northern India, a contest between Ahmad Shah Abdali and the Marathas was inevitable. Ahmad Shah defeated the Maratha army at the Battle of Panipat in 1761. This defeat not only checked the growing power of the Marathas, it also hastened the process of the disintegration of the Mughal empire. It indirectly contributed to the rise of the Sikh-power in Punjab and the north-west and the spread of British influence in the rest of the subcontinent.

Question 10.
Akbar was tbe greatest of all medieval rulers of India, In this context describe:
(a)
His Concern about Law and Justice
Answer:
Law and Justice: Akbar regarded speedy administration of justice as one of his important duties. The Chief Quazi was the foremost Judicial officer in the realm. He nominated Qazis for the provinces. The Qazis were believed to be just and impartial. They tried both civil and criminal cases. The bigger towns had their own Qazis. The villagers settled their disputes through the institution of the Panchayat. Above all the local and provincial courts was the Emperor himself. He was ‘the fountain of justice and the final court of appeal’. The prisoners were kept in forts.

Question 11.
Describe Aurangzeb’s Administration under the following headlines:
A Setback to the Policy of Religious Toleration Provincial Government
Answer:
(a) A Setback to the Policy of Religious Toleration:
Soon after his accession, Aurangzeb abandoned the liberal religious viewpoints of his predecessors^ Though Akbar Jahangir and Shah Jahan’s approach to faith was more liberal than the empire’s founder. Aurangzeb’s position is not so obvious. While his conservative interpretation of Islam and belief in Shria (Islamic law) is well documented, how this affected the empire remains unclear. Despite claims of sweeping edicts and policies, contradictory accounts exists his compilation of the Fatwa-e-Alamgirie, a digest of Muslim law, was either intended for personal use, never enforced. While some assert that the lack of broad adoption was due to an inherent flow, others insist they were only intended for his observance. While it is possible the war of succession and continued incursions combined with Shah Jahan’s spending made cultural expenditures impossible.

(b) Provincial Government:
The number of proinces had  risen to’ twenty-one in the time of Aurangzeb. The Diwan or the Revenue Chief of the province was required to keep a strict watch over the Subahdar (the Governor) so that the latter would not become all powerful.

ADDITIONAL QUESTIONS

Short Answer Questions:

Question 1.
Name two important sources which provide information about the Mughals.
Answer:
Two important sources of information about the Mughals are Ain-i-Akbari and monuments of Fatehpur Sikri.

Question 2.
Name of the author of Ain-i-Akbari.
Answer:
The author of Ain-i-Akbari is Abul Fazal.

Question 3.
What was the title of the Mahabharata translated into Persian ?
Answer:
The title of the Mahabharata translated into Persian was Razm Namah.

Question 4.
Who was the architect who designed Humayun’s tomb?
Answer:
A Persian Mirak Mirza Ghiyas designed the tomb, but it was built by Indian artisans and craftsmen. The main building stands on a 8.5 meter high platform and has archways on its sides.

Question 5.
Who built the Agra Fort ?
Answer:
Agra Fort was built on the banks of the Yamuna river at Agra by Akbar during the period from 1565 to 1573.

Question 6.
Name two buildings located in Fatehpur Sikri.
Answer:
Two prominent buildings at Fatehpuri Sikri are:

1. The Palace of Jodha Bhai, Akbar’s Rajput wife.
2. Buland Darwaza.

Question 7.
Why did Akbar build Fatehpur Sikri ?
Answer:
Fatehpur Sikri was built to symbolise the power of Akbar’s empire, to represent the meaning of Allah’s message to mankind and to display the wonders of the Islamic faith.

Question 8.
Between whom was the First Battle of Panipat fought ?
Answer:
The First Battle of Panipat was fought between Babar and Ibrahim Lodhi.

Question 9.
Who invited Babur to India ? Why ?
Answer:
Daulat Khan Lodhi Governor of Punjab invited Babur to India to oust Ibrahim Lodhi from the throne.

Question 10.
Who was defeated by Akbar at the Battle of Haldighati in 1576 ?
Answer:
Maharana Pratap was defeated by Akbar at the Battle of Haldighati in 1576 ?

Question 11.
Mention any two steps taken by Akbar to promote better understanding between the Hindus and the Muslims.
Answer:
Akbar, took the following measures to promote greater under standing between the Hindus and Muslims

1. Akbar abolished the poll tax or jizyah, which the non-muslims were required to pay. He abolished the pilgrim tax on bathing at holy places such as Prayag and Benaras.
2. He involved a number of Hindus into the nobility. Most of these were Rajput Rajas who entered into matrimonial alliances with Akbar. Mansabs were given to others on the basis of their competence.

Question 12.
Name the two taxes abolished by Akbar.
Answer:
The two taxes abolished by Akbar were Jizyah and pilgrim tax.

Question 13.
Name the Mughal ruler who forbade the evil practice of Sati.
Answer:
The Aurangzeb was the only ruler who forbade the evil practice of Sati.

Question 14.
What principles did Akbar’s Din-i-Ilahi promote ?
Answer:
It was based on the principles of oneness of God ; stressing on virtues like courage, loyalty and justice.

Question 15.
When and for what purpose did Akbar built the Ibadat Khana?
Answer:
The Ibadat Khana was built in 1575 at Fatehpur Sikri. At this hall, he used to call selected theologians of all religions, mystics and intellectuals and discuss religious and spiritual matters with them.

Question 16.
Name the Mughal ruler whose reign was famous for ‘Chain of Justice’.
Answer:
Jahangir’s reign was famous for ‘Chain of Justice’.

Question 17.
Name the two important centers of’trade during the Mughal Period.
Answer:
Two important centres of trade were Lahore and Delhi.

Question 18.
Mention any two measures which indicate Nur Jahan’s important position during Jahangir’s reign.
Answer:

1. She was promoted to the status of ‘Padshah Begum’.
2. Coins were struck in her name and on all farmans; (permission) her name was attached to the imperial signature.

Question 19.
Name the two English, ambassadors who came to Jahangir’s court. Who sent them and for what ?
Answer:
English ambassadors Captain Hawkins and Sir Thomas Roe wanted to obtain favorable concessions for trade with India. They were sent to India by King James I of England.

Question 20.
Between whom was the Third Battle of Panipat fought ? Who emerged victorious in the battle ?
Answer:
The Third Battle of Panipat was fought between the Marathas and Ahmad Shah Abdali in 1761. The Marathas were defeated by Ahmad Shah Abdali.

Question 21.
Name the title given to the heads of the revenue department and the military department respectively in the Mughal Empire.
Answer:
The head of the revenue department was the wazir, known as diwan or diwan-i-ala.The head of the militaiy department was called the mir bakhshi.

Question 22.
Who were mansabdars ? How were they paid ?
Answer:
The term mansabdar refers to an individual who holds a mansab, meaning a position or rank. The mansabdars formed the ruling group in the Mughal empire.The mansabdars received their salaries as revenue assignments called jagirs. Most of the mansabdars did not actually reside in or administer their Jagirs. They only had rights to the revenue of their assignments which was collected from them by their servants.

Structured Questions

1. With reference to the Mughal Empire, explain briefly the significance of the following:
Question 1(a) .
Ain-i-Akbari.
Answer:
This book was written by Abul Fazl, the minister and one of the Nine jewels at Akbar’s court. It was part of a large project of history writing commissioned by Akbar. Ain-i-Akbari is regarded as a precious source material for knowing the , administration and culture during the reign of Akbar. The Ain-i-Akbari is divided into five books. The first book deals with the imperial household. The second book deals with the servants of the emperor, the military and civil services. The third book deals with the imperial administration. It consists of the regulations for the judicial and executive departments, and the divisions of the empire. The fourth book contains information about the Hindu philosophy, science, social customs and literature. The fifth book contains the wise sayings of Akbar. This also contains an account of the ancestry and biography of the author.

Question 1(b).
Monuments at Fatehpur Sikri.
Answer:
Fatehpur Sikri was built to symbolise the power of Akbar’s empire, to represent the meaning of Allah’s message to mankind and to display the wonders of the Islamic faith. Completed in 1578, Fatehpur Sikri has a grand palace where Akbar’s court functioned for a few years, until the shortage of water caused the city to be abandoned. Other grand monuments in Fatehpur Sikri are Panch Mahal, the Buland Darwaza, a mosque dedicated to Salim Chisti, tomb of Salim Chisti, a prayer hall for the new religion called Din-i-Ilahi started by Akbar ; halls of public and private audience, the Diwan-i-am and Diwan-i-Khas, Jodha Bai’s palace and Raja Birbal’s house.

2. With reference to the Mughal rule, state briefly:
Question 2(a).
Akbar’s policy towards the Rajputs.
Answer:
Friendly relations with Rajputs were appreciable of Akbar’s policy. He married the daughter of Bhara Mai (the ruler of Amber), Harkha Bai (Jodha Bai). He gave full respect to his wives e.g. he gave a separate worshiping palace to Jodha Bai in Fatehpur Sikhi. Rajputs were made equal partners in the Mughal Government.

Question 2(b).
Akbar’s policy of religious tolerance.
Answer:
Akbar is famous for his religious tolerance. He paid respect to every religion and was reasonable for every sect of society. The abolishment of ‘Jizyh’ tax, and forcibly converting prisoners of war to Islam. In 1575, Akbar built a hall called ‘Ibadat Khana’, where religious meetings were held to discuss about various religions.

3. With reference to the administrative system in the Mughal Period, answer the following questions:
Question 3(a) .
What was the position of the monarch ?
Answer:
There are a number of references in the court chronicles of the Mughals which show that the power of the Mughal kings came directly from God. One of the legends they narrated was that of the Mongol queen Alanqua, who was impregnated by a ray of sunshine while resting in her tent. The off spring she bore carried this Divine Light and passed it from generation to generation.

Question 3(b).
Who were the three important ministers ?
Answer:
In the days of Babur and Humayun, there used to be a Prime Minister, known as vakil, who was entrusted with large powers in civil and military affairs. During the early years of Akbar’s reign Bairam Khan was the vakil. The head of the revenue department was the wazir, known as diwan or diwan-i-ala. The diwan was responsible for all income and expenditure. The head of the military department was called the Mir  Bakhshi. The Mir Bakhshi was also the head of the intelligence and information agencies of the empire.

Question 3(c).
How was the provincial government organised ?
Answer:
The empire was divided into twelve provinces or subahs, which was further subdivided into sarkars and each sarkar into parganas or mahals. Each Subah was headed by one governor who was called the subahdar or sipah salar or nazim. He was usually a mansabdar of high rank. His functions included maintenance of law and order, enforcement of imperial decrees, administration of criminal justice and the smooth collection of revenue. The provincial diwan was incharge of revenue administration of the province. His responsibilities were similar to those of the central diwan. Besides the subahdar and the diwan, the other important officials in the province were faujdar, kotwal, bakhshi, sadr qazi and muhtasib.

4. With reference to Mansabdari system, answer the following questions:
Question 4(a).
What was the Mansabdari system
Answer:
The mansabdari system introduced by Akbar was a uqique feature of the administrative system of the lytughal empire. The mansabdars formed the ruling group of the Mughal empire with a rank of (mansab). With a great power of civil and army control the rank ranged from number 10 to 5000 for nobles. The ranks were again divided into ‘zat’ and ‘sawar’. For every ten cavalrymen, the mansabdar had to maintain twenty horses.

Question 4(b).
What was meant by zat and sawar rank ?
Answer:
Zat fixed the personal status of a person and the salary due to him. The higher the zat, the more prestigious was the noble’s position in court and the larger his salary.The sawar rank indicated the number of cavalrymen or sawar a mansabdar was required to maintain. For every ten cavalrymen, the mansabdar had to maintain twenty horses.

5. With reference to the social development during the Mughal Age, answer the following question:
Question 5(a).
Explain the division of society on the basis of wealth.
Answer:
During the Mughal Age, society looked like a feudal organisation with the king at its apex. Next in rank to the king were the nobles, who enjoyed special honors and privileges. With abundant resources at their disposal, the rich indulged in luxury and led a comfortable life. They lived in highly decorated palatial buildings and amused themselves with outdoor sports as well as indoor games.Below the nobles, there was the middle class, which was living according to the standard suited to their respective offices and professions.

The merchants in general led simple life. According to some European writers, the merchants of the western coast, having made much wealth out of their extensive commerce, lived in a comparatively rich style. The condition of the lower order was hard as compared with that of the two higher classes. They did not have sufficient clothing and woolen garments and shoes were above their means. As their other demands were few, they did not suffer from want of ordinary food but in times of famine and scarcity, their miseries must have been great. The shopkeepers, though sometimes rich and respected, generally kept their wealth hidden.

Question 5(b).
Explain briefly any two steps taken by Akbar towards integrating the Hindus and the Muslims.
Answer:
The Mughal Emperors, especially Akbar, took a number of measures to promote greater understanding between the Hindus and the Muslims.
Some of these measures were the following:

1. Akbar abolished the poll taxorjizyah, which the non-Muslims were required to pay. He also abolished the pilgrim tax on bathing at holy places such as Prayag and Banaras. Further, he abolished the practice of forcibly converting prisoners of war to Islam.
2. To strengthen the liberal principles, Akbar enrolled a number of Hindus into the nobility. While most of these were Rajput rajas, many of whom entered into matrimonial alliances with Akbar, mansabs were given to others also on the basis of their competence.

Question 5(c).
What steps were taken by the Mughal rulers to promote education ?
Answer:
The Mughal rulers introduced a number of educational reforms:

Akbar revised the educational syllabus, laying more emphasis on moral education and mathematics and on’secular subjects such as agriculture, geometry, astronomy, logic and history. The other Mughal emperors also were keen patrons of education and there was considerable development in this area. In fact one of the duties of the public works department. Shuhra-i-am was to build schools and colleges. Jahangir passed a law, whereby if a rich man was to die without an heir, his assets would be used by the State to help in the development and maintenance of educational institutes. Shah Jahan although more interested in building monuments, did take some significant educational initiatives like providing scholarships to assist students. Female education also existed in some form during the Mughal period. Girls from rich families were usually able to have an education, through private tuition at home. The Middle class girls were usually able to attend the same schools as the boys.

 

ICSE Solutions for Class 9 History and Civics – The Delhi Sultanate

ICSE SolutionsSelina ICSE SolutionsML Aggarwal Solutions

EXERCISES

Question 1.
Who laid the foundation of the Delhi Sultanate?
Answer:
Qutub-ud-din Aibak laid the foundation of the Delhi Sultanate.

Question 2.
Name any two Inscriptions to reconstruct the age of the Delhi Sultanate.
Answer:

1. The Pehowa Inscription,
2. Sarban Inscription.

Question 3.
Mention any two ways in which Inscriptions may be used for reconstructing the history of the Delhi Sultanate.
Answer:

1. Inscriptions — These are valuable supplements and not the sole sources of information on the Delhi Sultanate. The inscriptions are found on coins, monuments, milestones and tombstones. Some of the inscriptions are in Sanskrit, some in Arabic and some in both the languages. For example, the first coin issued by Muhammad Bakhtiyar Khilji bears both Arabic and Sanskrit inscriptions. Similarly, the famous traveller Ibn Batuta noticed a commemorative inscription in the Jama Masjid in Delhi, which he deciphered.
2. The Pehowa Inscription of the Pratihara king Mahendrapala suggests that Delhi was founded in 736 AD by the Tomaras, a clan of the Rajputs. It mentions that the Tomaras ruled over the Haryana region with Dhilika (Delhi) as their Capital. The Sarban Inscription (found in the village Sarban, South Delhi) contains a brief account of the history of Delhi until the reign of Muhammad Tughlaq (1325-1351).

Question 4.
Mention any two architectural features of Qutab Minar.
Answer:

1. The entrance to the tower is through the doorway on the northern side. Inside, there is a spiral stairway leading upto each balcony.
2. Red sandstone, marble and grey quartzite were used to construct the tower which is the highest stone tower in India.

Question 5.
Mention any two measures taken by Alauddin Khalji for control of the Market.
Answer:

1. Alauddin is best known in history for his market regulations. He fixed the cost of all commodities from food grains, sugar and cooking oil to a needle, costly imported cloth, horses, cattle, slave boys and girls.
2. He set up three markets at Delhi e.g., for food grains, cloth and horses, slave and cattle, under the control of ‘ Shahna’ or the controller. Strict punishment was given for cheating.

Question 6.
Mention any two schemes of Muhammed Tughlaq that failed and made him extremely unpopular.
Answer:
Two schemes of Muhammed Tughlaq that failed and made him extremely unpopular were:

1. Muhammed Tughlaq increased the taxation in the Doab (the territory between the rivers Ganga and Yamuna).
2. His decision to transfer his Capital from Delhi to Devagiri (Daulatabad) with a view to having the Capital situated in the middle of his kingdom. He was bent upon taking all the inhabitants of Delhi to the new Capital. Both of his schemes failed as people never accepted both the schemes of him.

Question 7.
Why did Muhammad Tughlak’s scheme for increased taxation in Doab fail ?
Answer:
There occurred a severe famine because of failure of rains. The people offered resistance, but the Sultan’s officers continued to realise taxes mercilessly. The cultivators were, therefore, forced to abandon their lands. The Sultan tried to help the cultivators by giving them loans to buy seeds bullocks etc. Arrangements were also made for the digging of wells for irrigation purposes. But the scheme failed.

Question 8.
Mention any one reason why Muhammad Tughlaq decided to transfer his Capital from Delhi to Devagiri (Daulatabad) ?
Answer:
In 1327 he decided to transfer his Capital from Delhi to Devagiri now Daulatabad with a view to having the Capital situated in the middle of his kingdom. He was bent upon taking all the inhabitants of Delhi to the new Capital. No one liked the forced move: it was doomed to failure. As the Sultan was convinced of the failure of his scheme, he ordered the people to return to their homes in Delhi.

Question 9.
Who was the greatest of the Lodi Kings?
Answer:
Sikandar Lodi was the greatest of the Lodi Kings.

Question 10.
Who was the commander-in-chief of the army during the Sultanate period ?
Answer:
Sultan was the commander-in-chief of the army during the Sultanate period.

Question 11.
Who was the highest officer in the government during the Delhi Sultanate ?
Answer:
The highest officer in the government was the Wazir, the Chief Minister.

Question 12.
Name the two important provinces under Khljis and the Tughlaqs.
Answer:
The most important provinces under Khaljis and the Tughlaq were those of Jaunpur, Malwa, Khandesh, Gujarat, Bengal and the Dakhin (Deccan).

Question 13.
Mention any two sources of revenue during the Sultanate period.
Answer:
The main sources of revenue were as under:

1. Land tax, usually one-tenth of the produce,
2. The booty captured, in wars.

Question 14.
Name any two archaeological sources to reconstruct the age fo the Delhi Sultanate.
Answer:

1. Qutab Minar,
2. Illahi Darwaza.

Question 15.
Mention any two ways in which Iltutmish consolidated the Turkish conquests in India?
Answer:
Iltutmish effectively suppressed the rebellions of Amirs and also defeated the governors of Sindh and Bengal who had risen in revolt. He then embarked upon a career of conquests. He made Delhi his Capital and was the first Turkish ruler to introduce a purely Arabic coinage. Finding his sons incompetent to rule, Iltutmish chose his daughter Raziya to be his successor.

Question 16.
Who was Razia Sultana? Who plotted against her?
Answer:
Raziya Sultana was the daughter of Iltutmish. She was put to death by her nobles, who plotted against her and her husband Altunia and got them murdered in 1240.

Question 17.
What measures were taken by Balban to crush the Turkish Nobles?
Answer:
Balban adopted a policy of sternness and severity. He established order in the neighborhood of Delhi and instilled fear in the minds of the Turkish nobles by inflicting severe punishment on them even for slight offences. Some of them were even publicity flogged. The north-west frontier posts were strongly garrisoned.

Question 18.
Mention any two new elements of architecture style introduced by the Muslims in India.
Answer:
Two new elements of architecture style introduced by the Muslims in India are:

1. Open Airy and Spacious Buildings.
2. Mosques and Tombs.

Question 19.
Mention two important features of mosques.
Answer:
Two important features of mosques are:

1. The mosques have an open courtyard surrounded by a pillared varandah.
2. There is a prayer-hall having a recess or alcove called Mehrab in the western wall at the back of the hall.

Question 20.
How did Alaudin Khalji expand his empire?
Answer:
Alauddin Khalji raided Malwa and Gujarat and also defeated the Rajput rulers of Ranthambhor and Chittor. Next, he faced to the four wealthy kingdoms of the Deccan—Yadavas of Devagiri, the Kakatiyas of Warangal, Hoysalas of Dwarasamudra and Pandya Kingdom with its Capital at Madurai. The task of conquest of Deccan had been entrusted by Alauddin to his military commander, Malik Kafur.

Question 21.
Who was Timur Lang?
Answer:
Timur Lang (Timur the Lame) was a foreign invader who had risen into power in central Asia and invaded Delhi.

STRUCTURED QUESTIONS
Question 1.
Give a brief account of the reign of Alauddin Khalji under the following headings.
(a) His main conquests
(b)Treatment meted out to the rulers of Southern India.
Answer:
(a)
Alauddin Khalji raided Malwa and Gujarat and also defeated the Rajput rulers of Ranthambhor and Chittor. Next, he faced to the four wealthy kingdoms of the deccan—Yadavas of Devagiri, the Kakatiyas of Warangal, Hoysalas of Dwarasamudra and Pandya Kingdom with its Capital at Madurai. The task of conquest of Deccan had been entrusted by Alauddin to his military commander, malik Kafur.
(b)
The task of conquest of Deccan had been entrusted by Alauddin to his military commander Malik Kafur.Malik Kafur captured an immense booty which consisted of hundreds of elephants, thousands of horses and gold and jewels in large quantities. But Southern India was not annexed. Its rulers had to acknowledge the lordship of Delhi Sultan and pay him tribute in return for peace and protection.

Question 2.
Why did Muhammad Tughlaq’s following schemes prove a failure?
(a) An increase in taxation in the Doab.
(b) Introduction of Token Currency.
Answer:
(a)
He increased the taxation in the Doab, the territory between rivers Ganga and Yamuna with a view to augment his resources. This scheme was defeated because of consecutive years of drought.
(b)
In 1329 the Sultan introduced Token Currency by proclaiming that brass and copper coins could have the same use or function as that of gold and silver coins. This experiment also failed. Soon the gold and silver coins disappeared from the market and forged copper coins manufactured by people at their homes came into circulation. Trade and business came to a standstill.

Question 3.
Give an account of the administration of the Sultanate of Delhi under the following heads:
(a) Position of the Sultan (b) His Ministers
Answer:
(a)
The Sultan of Delhi was an unlimited despot. He was the chief executive of the state; he was also the highest judicial authority. The Sultan was the Commander-in-Chief of the army. His powers were very wide. He was responsible for the safety and security of the state. A direct appeal could be made to him against the highhandedness of any of his officials or judges. There was no constitutional method to remove a king from the throne. He could be removed  only by a successful revolt which meant a Civil War.
(b)
The Sultan, however, could not manage the task of administration single-handed. The highest officer in the government was the Wazir, the Chief Minister. Other key functionaries and ministers were the Diwan (the Finance Minister), the Qazi (Chief Judge) and the Ariz (the Army Minister). The special responsibility of the Army Minister was to recruit, equip and pay the soldiers.

Question 4.
Study the picture of Qutab Minar and answer the following questions:
(a) Where is it located ?
(b) Name the rulers who started and completed the construction of the structure.
(c) Name the Muslim Saint after whom the structure is named.
(d) Mention three important features of the structure.

Answer:
On the basis of the study of Qutab Minar the given questions are answered as under:
(a) Qutab Minar is located in Delhi.
(b) The construction of Qutab Minar was started by Qutub-ud- din Aibak. It was completed by lltutmish.
(c) Qutub-ud-din, a Muslim saint of Ush, near Baghdad.
(d)

1. The structure is a circular tower which rises to a height of 72.5 metres;
2.  It has five storeys, tapering as they ascend and separated from each other by projected balconies. Each storey has a different pattern and has finely wrought Arabic inscription
3. The entrance to the tower is through the doorway on the northern side. Inside, there is a spiral stairway leading upto each balcony

ADDITIONAL QUESTIONS
Short Answer Questions:

Question 1.
Who was the founder of the slave dynasty in India ?
Answer:
Qutubuddin Aibak is regarded as the founder of the Slave dynasty.

Question 2.
Why was Qutubuddin known as Lakhbaksh ?
Answer:
Qutubuddin known as Lakhbaksh because of liberal distribution of money, he earned the title of ‘Lakhbaksh’.

Question 3.
Mention any two military reforms introduced by Alauddin.
Answer:
Military Reforms: Alauddin Khilji was the first ruler of Delhi who laid the foundation of a permanent standing army. He imported qaulity horses and started the system of branding horses (dagh) so that the soldiers could not replace them with inferior quality horses. He also introduced the system of chehra, i.e., giving a kind of identity card for every soldier.

Question 4.
How did Alauddin Khalji expand his empire ?
Answer:
A large region was ruled in northern India by Alauddin. Alauddin Khalji conquered many southern states in 1313, the states of Devagiri, Warangal, Dwarasamudra and Madurai. The annual tribute payed by these states was used for maintenance of his army.

Question 5.
Mention the two controversial steps taken by Muhammad-bin-Tughlaq.
Answer:
Two controversial steps taken by Muhammad-bin-Tughlaq, were as follows:

1. Shifting of Capital from Delhi to Devagiri.
2. Introduction of the “token currency”.

Question 6.
Which dynasty of the Delhi Sultanate built The Qutab Minar ?
Answer:
Slave dynasty of the Delhi Sultanate i.e. Qutb-ud-din Aibak in AD 1199, built the Qutab Minar.

Question 7.
Who was the commander-in-chief of the army during the Sultanate period ?
Answer:
Sultan was the commander-in-chief of the army during the Sultanate period.

Question 8.
Name the department which dealt with state correspondence during the Sultanate period.
Answer:
Diwan-i-insha was department which dealt with state correspondence during the Sultanate period.

Question 9.
What was the iqta system ?
Answer:
During Sultanate the empire was divided into provinces called iqtas’. During this period, the practice of giving grants of revenue from a terrritory came to be known as the ‘ iqta system’. Those who were given iqtas were called ‘iqtadars’. Out of this grant, the iqtadars had to maintain themselves, their families and some soldiers for use by the Sultan during war.

Question 10.
Name the author of the book, Tarikh-i-Firuzshahi.
Answer:
The book, Tarikh-i-Firuzshahi was written by Ziauddin Barani.

Question 11.
Why were the early rulers of slave dynasty called the Mamluk Sultans ?
Answer:
The early rulers of slave dynasty were called the Mamluk Sultans because these Sultans were earlier either the slaves of the Turks or were the sons of the slaves.

Question 12.
Mention any two reasons for the defeat of Rajputs by the Turks.
Answer:

1. The Turkish army comprised expert military leaders from different lands who employed new tactics of wars. The Rajputs, on the other hand, followed outdated tactics.
2. The Rajput soldiers were highly efficient in the use of spear and sword and excellent in hand-to-hand fighting. But as archers, they were inferior to the Turks. The Turks were aware of the weak points of their opponents.

Question 13.
Who was Muhammad Ghori ? Why did he invade India ?
Answer:
Shahabuddin Muhammad, also known as Muizzuddin Muhammad bin Sam or Muhammad Ghori, ascended the throne at Ghazni (in present Afghanistan) in 1173. He was an ambitious ruler and wanted to establish his empire in India. The wealth  and military resources of India attracted Mohammad Ghori’s attention, which he thought could be utilised to safeguard the Ghurid empire. Therefore, he strengthened his position at Ghazni and turned his attention towards India. He invaded India several times between 1175 and 1206.

Question 14.
Mention the four architectural features brought in by the Turks in India.
Answer:
The architectural style brought in by the Turks in India had four main characteristic features — dome, minarets, ‘arches and propped roofs. In the sphere of decoration, the Turks used geometrical and floral designs, combining them with panels of inscriptions containing verses from the Holy Quran.

Question 15.
Who was Razia Sultana ? To which dynasty did she belong?
Answer:
Razia Sultana was the daughter of Iltutmish. She belonged to the Slave Dynasty.

Question 16.
What measures were taken by Alauddin Khalji for regulating the prices ?
Answer:
Alauddin was best known in history for his market regulations. He fixed the cost of all commodities from food grains, sugar and cooking oil to a needle, costly imported cloth, horses, cattle, slave boys and girls. He set up three markets at Delhi e.g. for food grains, cloth and horses, slave and cattle, under the control of ‘Shahna’ or the controller. Strict punishment was given for cheating.

Question 17.
Mention any two measures taken by Alauddin Khilji to crush the power of the nobles.
Answer:

1. The Nobles were not allowed to hold parties or festivities or to form marriage alliances without the permission of the Sultan.
2. The use of wine and intoxicants was banned.
3. Gambling was forbidden and gamblers were severely punished.

Question 18.
With reference to the Delhi Sultanate, mention to which dynasties the following belonged:
(a) Razia Sultana
(b) lbrahim Lodhi
(c) Firoz Shah
(d) Qutb-ud-Din Aibak
Answer:
(a) Slave Dynasty
(b) Lodhi Dynasty
(c) Tughlaq Dynasty
(d) Slave Dynasty

Structured Questions.

Question 1.
With reference to the sources of information about the Delhi Sultanate, give the significance of the following:
(a) Inscriptions (b) Qutub Minar
Answer:
(a) Inscriptions — These are valuable supplements and not the sole sources of information on the Delhi Sultanate. The inscriptions are found on coins, monuments, milestones and tombstones. Some of the inscriptions are in Sanskrit, some in Arabic and some in both the languages. For example, the first coin issued by Muhammad Bakhtiyar Khilj i bears both Arabic and Sanskrit inscriptions. Similarly, the famous traveller Ibn Batuta noticed a commemorative inscription in the Jama Masjid in Delhi, which he deciphered.

(b) Qutub Minar — It began to be built in AD 1199. It was started by Qutub-ud-din Aibak and was dedicated to the Sufi saint, Qutb-ud-din Bakhtiyar Kaki, who was greatly venerated by the people of Delhi. The structure was completed in 1230 bylltutmish. Verses from the Holy Quran and some intricate carvings, floral motifs are inscribed on this tower.

2. With reference to the Slave dynasty, answer the following questions:
Question 2(a).
Why were the early rulers of the Slave dynasty called the Mamluk Sultans ?
Answer:
The word Mamluk is an Arabic word that means ‘owned’. Since these Sultans were earlier either the slaves of the Turks or were the sons of the slaves, they were called Mamluk Sultans.

Question 2(b).
Who was Qutubuddin Aibak ? State any two of his qualities.
Answer:
Qutubuddin Aibak is regarded as the founder of the Slave dynasty. Qutubuddin Aibak was a man of letters. Scholars like Hasan Nizami and Fakhre Mudir adorned his court. Because of liberal distribution of money, he earned the title of ‘ Lakhbaksh ’. Qutubuddin Aibak laid the foundation of Qutub Minar in Delhi, after the name of the famous Sufi saint Khwaja Qutub-ud-din Bakhtiyar Kaki.

3. With reference to the Khilji dynasty, answer the following questions:
Question 3(a).
What were the steps taken by Alauddin Khilji to regulate prices ?
Answer:
He fixed the cost of all commodities such as food grains, sugar and cooking oil. For this purpose, he set up three markets at Delhi — one market for food grains, the second for costly cloth, and the third for horses, slaves and cattle. Each market was put under the charge of a controller of market (Shahna). Very strict punishments were prescribed for cheating and under weighing the goods.

Question 3(b).
What were the methods adopted by Alauddin Khilji to crush the power of the nobility ?
Answer:
When Alauddin Khilji came to the throne, he had to face a series of rebellions from the nobles. So he took a number of measures to crush their power.

1. The Nobles were not allowed to hold parties or festivities or to form marriage alliances without the permission of the Sultan.
2. The use of wine and intoxicants was banned.
3. Gambling was forbidden and gamblers were severely punished.
4. He stopped paying the soldiers in land and introduced cash salaries.
5. He established an efficient spy system to keep a check on the activities of the nobles.

Question 3(c).
What measures did Alauddin Khilji take to increase the revenue?
Answer:
Alauddin Khilji introduced a number of important measures to get maximum revenue. He brought all the land of the empire into his direct control. He introduced the practice of measuring land and fixing the state share accordingly. He increased the land revenue from one-third to one-half and demanded it to be paid in cash and not kind. He also appointed special officers to collect land revenue.

4. With reference to the reign of Muhammad-bin-Tughlaq, explain the following:
Question 4(a).
His attempts to transfer the capital from Delhi to Daulatabad.
Answer:
During Muhammad-bin-Tughlaq’s reign the empire had also spread to the south. He shifted his capital to Devagiri near modern Aurangabad and renamed it Daulatabad. He did it for the following reasons:

1. Daulatabad was centrally located from where he could control the Deccan territories; and
2.  Delhi was in the grip of severe famine; and
3. Delhi was constantly threatened by the Mongol invasions. He ordered the people of Delhi including religious heads to shift to Daulatabad in 1328-29.

Question 4(b).
Introduction of token currency.
Answer:
Muhammad Bin Tughlaq introduced the “token currency”. It meant introduction of bronze tanka in place of silver tankas. This was done because of the shortage of silver. But this experiment failed due to the circulation of counterfeit or fake coins on a very large scale.

Question 4(c).
Increased taxation in Doab and its consequences.
Answer:
Muhammad-bin-Tughlaq wanted to conquer territories not only in India but also in Central Asia. He required a large army and, therefore, large amounts of money to pay for the army. So in order to get more revenue, he increased the land tax in the fertile region of Ganga-Yamuna doab. At the same time, a severe famine broke out in the area and the people refused to pay the extra taxes and rose in rebellion. But the tax collectors showed no mercy and took stern measures to collect the taxes. This made some of the peasants to abandon their lands and flee to jungles.

5. With reference to the administrative system of the Delhi Sultanate, give the functions of each of the following officials:
(a) Ariz-i-mumalik
(b) Wazir
Answer:
(a) Ariz-i-mumalik — The minister in charge of the army was called ariz-i-mumalik’. The ariz was not the commander- in-chief of the army, since the Sultan himself commanded all the armed forces. The special responsibility of the ariz’s department was to recruit, equip and pay the army.
(b) Wazir — the key figure in administration was the wazir, who acted as the Prime Minister. The wazir supervised the work of the other officials.

6. Study the picture of Qutab Minar and answer the following questions:
(a) Who began erecting this monument ? Where is it located?
(b) Name the saint after whom the monument is named.
(c) Name the ruler who completed the construction of Qutab Minar.
(d) Mention three important features of the monument.

Answer:
(a) Qutub-ud-Din Aibak began to erect this monument. It is located in Delhi.
(b) This monument is named after the Sufi saint, Qutb-ud-din Bakhtiyar Kaki.
(c) The structure was completed only in AD 1230 by lllutmish.
(d) It has five storeys separated by balconies. Its height is 71.4 meters. It is of 13.8 meters in diameter. It is made of red sandstone, marble and grey quartzite.

7. With reference to the invasion of Muhammad Ghori,  answer the following questions:
Question 7(a).
Why did Muhammad Ghori invade India ?
Answer:
The reasons which made Muhammad Ghori to invade India.The wealth and military resources of India, which he thought could be utilised to safeguard the Ghurid empire. Therefore, he strengthened his position at Ghazni and turned his attention towards India. He invaded India several times between 1175 and 1206.

Question 7(b).
Briefly describe the conflict between Prithviraj Chauhan in the two battles of Tarain.
Answer:
In 1191, in the First Battle of Tarain, the forces ofMuhammad Ghori were completely routed by the forces of Prithviraj. Muhammad Ghori decided to avenge his defeat and made another bid for India in 1192. The Second Battle of Trarain in 1192 is regarded as one of the turning points of Indian history. The Turkish army of Muhammad Ghori won the battle. A large number of Rajput soldiers lost their lives. Prithviraj escaped, but was captured. Later on Turkish army attacked and captured Ajmer. It seems that Prithviraj was allowed to rule over Ajmer for some times as is evident from the coins of the period giving the date and the legend Prithviraj adeva on one side and the words ‘Sri Muhammad Sam’ on the other.

Question 7(c).
What were the cause of success of the Turks against the Rajputs ?
Answer:
The factors which led to the defeat of the Rajputs against the Turks were the following:

1. The Turkish army consisted mainly of cavalry and its horses had greater stamina and endurance.
2. The Turkish army comprised expert military leaders from different lands who employed new tactics of war. The Rajputs, on the other hand, followed outdated tactics.
3. The Rajput soldiers were highly efficient in the use of spear and sword and excellent in hand-to-hand fighting. But as archers, they were inferior to the Turks. The Turks were aware of the weak points of their opponents. They avoided a close combat and usually made their attack from a safe distance. The Rajputs were divided into a number of clans, each of which laid greater importance to its own family traditions. The Turks had to fight not against a unified army but against a few dynasties

8. With reference to the social life during the Sultanate period, answer the following questions:
Question 8(a).
Explain the caste divisions which existed in the social structure.
Answer:
There were hardly any changes in the structure of the Hindu society during the period. According to the Smritis, the Brahmins were at the apex, followed by the Kshatriyas. The duty of the Kshatriyas was to protect the people. The Vaishyas were engaged in trade. It was the duty of the shudras to serve the other castes, but they were allowed to engage in all occupation. However, severe restrictions were placed on mingling with the outcasts. The Muslims were divided into ethnic and racial groups. There were Turkish, Iranian, Arab, Afghan and Abyssinian Muslims. During the 13th century, among all the foreigners, the Turkish Muslims were in a dominating position. Besides, the Muslims were divided into many groups on the basis of origin, religion and occupation.However, the caste divisions did not close social intercourse between the Muslims and the Hindus.

Question 8(b).
Explain the inequalities which existed between rulers and the ruled during the Sultanate period.
Answer:.
During the Sultanate period, the society was marked by inequalities. In towns, the nobles and merchants led a life of great luxury. The great mass of people lived in simple life and had to face many hardships. It was, however, not a life without joy, as numerous festivals and fairs held from time to time used to relieve them of their monotonous existence.

Question 8(c).
Describe the condition of women during the Sultanate period.
Answer:
There was hardly any change in the position of women among the Hindus. The old rules such as early marriage for girls and the wife’s obligation of sender and devotion to the husband continued. A number of travelers refers to the existence of the evil practice of Sati. According to Ibn Batuta, permission from the Sultan had to be taken for the performance of Sati.The practice of purdah was widespread among the upper class wom