Keywords To Remember
- Subedar
A governor or military commander appointed by the Mughal emperor to rule a province. - Dewan
An official in charge of revenue and finance in a province or kingdom. - Nawab
A provincial governor or ruler, often semi-independent during Mughal decline. - Thanas
Police stations or local administrative units responsible for law and order. - Zamindars
Landowners or landlords who collected taxes from peasants during Mughal times. - Revenue System
The method by which taxes and income were collected by rulers. - Wazir
A high-ranking minister or advisor in the Mughal court or a kingdom. - Viceroy
A representative of the emperor who governed a large region on behalf of the emperor. - Tribute
A payment or gift given by one state to another as a sign of submission or respect. - Guruship
The spiritual leadership or position held by the Sikh Gurus. - Jagir
Land granted to an individual by the king in exchange for service, especially military or administrative. - Chhatrapati
The royal title used by the Maratha kings, meaning ‘Lord of the Parasol’ or king. - Chauth
A tax amounting to one-fourth of the land revenue, collected by Marathas for protection. - Sardeshmukhi
An additional tax of 10% levied by the Maratha rulers on territories under their influence. - Havaldar
A military or administrative officer in charge of a fort and its surrounding area. - Guerilla Warfare
A type of irregular warfare using small, mobile groups to carry out surprise attacks. - Feudal Divisions
Social and political system where land is held in exchange for service or labor, leading to divisions and local power centers. - Lingua Franca
A language used as a common means of communication between people who speak different native languages. - Ambassador
A diplomatic official sent by one country to represent it in another country. - Fickle-minded
Changing opinions or loyalties frequently; not dependable. - Empire
A large group of countries or regions ruled by a single authority or emperor. - Succession
The process of inheriting a throne or position after the previous holder dies or steps down. - Governor
A person appointed to rule a province or state on behalf of a higher authority. - Internal peace
A state of calm and order within a region or country, without conflict. - External peace
Peaceful relations with neighboring regions or countries. - Trade
The buying and selling of goods and services between people or countries. - Customs duty
A tax imposed on goods when they are transported across borders. - Opposition
Resistance or disagreement against a ruler, policy, or authority. - Corruption
Dishonest or illegal behavior by those in power, usually involving bribery. - Revolt
A rebellion or uprising against a government or ruler. - Tolerance
Acceptance of different views, beliefs, or behaviors. - Religious reform
Changes or improvements made to religious practices or beliefs. - Military force
Armed groups organized for defense or war. - Diplomat
A person who represents their country in talks and negotiations with other countries. - Annex
To add or take control of a territory by force or authority. - Alliance
An agreement between two or more groups or countries to support each other. - Strategy
A plan of action designed to achieve a particular goal. - Administration
The group of people who manage and organize the affairs of a state or organization. - Revenue
Income earned by the government through taxes or other sources. - Feudalism
A system where nobles own land and peasants work on it in exchange for protection.
Something To Know
A. Tick (✔) the correct option.
- ‘Sikhism’ owes its origin to the teachings of-
(a) Guru Teg Bahadur
(b) Guru Nanak
(c) Guru Ram Das
(d) Guru Gobind Singh
Answer – (b) Guru Nanak
- Who took over the title of ‘Chhatrapati’?
(a) Shahu
(b) Shivaji
(c) Ranjit Singh
(d) Balaji Vishwanath
Answer – (b) Shivaji
- The Sikhs revolted against the Mughals under the leadership of-
(a) Ranjit Singh
(b) Banda Bahadur
(c) Guru Teg Bahadur
(d) Dewan Dina Nath
Answer – (b) Banda Bahadur
- Which Nawab of Awadh was appointed the Wazir of the Mughal empire?
(a) Saadat Khan
(b) Safdarjung
(c) Asaf-ud-daula
(d) Shiya-ud-daula
Answer – (b) Safdarjung
- Tipu Sultan did not send his ambassadors to one of these countries to seek help against the British.
(a) France
(b) Turkey
(c) Iran
(d) Spain
Answer – (d) Spain
B. Fill in the blanks.
- Sawai Jai Singh was the king of __________ .
Answer – Amber (Jaipur)
- During the rule of Chikka Krishna Raj, the real power was in the hands of __________ .
Answer – the Wodeyar brothers
- Shivaji also collected taxes, such as __________ and __________ from areas not under his direct control.
Answer – chauth and sardeshmukhi
- __________ emerged as the lingua franca of high class.
Answer – Urdu
- __________ laid the foundation of the Kingdom of Awadh.
Answer – Saadat Khan
C. Match the following:
- Mysore a. Nizam-ul-Mulk Asaf Jah
- Bengal b. Guru Gobind Singh
- Hyderabad c. Shahu
- Maratha d. Tipu Sultan
- Sikhs e. Shuja-ud-din
Answer –
Mysore – d. Tipu Sultan
Bengal – e. Shuja-ud-din
Hyderabad – a. Nizam-ul-Mulk Asaf Jah
Maratha – c. Shahu
Sikhs – b. Guru Gobind Singh
D. Answer the following questions in brief.
- State two factors responsible for the rise of independent states in India.
Answer – The decline of the Mughal Empire after Aurangzeb’s death.
The wars of succession and weak central authority.
- Name the states that openly asserted their independence from the Mughal empire.
Answer – The Sikhs, the Marathas, and the Rajputs.
- Name the two main taxes levied by the Marathas.
Answer – Chauth and Sardeshmukhi.
- Explain guerilla warfare of Marathas.
Answer – Guerilla warfare was a tactic involving surprise attacks by small groups on larger enemy forces and then retreating quickly to safety, especially suitable for mountainous terrain.
- State the condition of Indian society in the eighteenth century.
Answer – Society lacked unity due to feudal divisions, suffered economic disparity, and women were in poor condition. Agriculture and industry were backward, and both internal and external trade declined.
E. Answer the following questions
- How did the three Nawabs of Bengal encourage trade?
Answer – They provided facilities to merchants, built roads and thanas, and made the East India Company officials follow local laws and pay customs duty like local traders.
- Why did Banda Bahadur fail to strengthen the Sikh power?
Answer – He failed because the upper castes opposed him, and he could not unite all sections of society, leading to his defeat by the Mughals.
- What were the main features of the Maratha administration?
Answer – Efficient team of officers, collection of chauth and sardeshmukhi, division of empire into parts, strong fort control system, and use of guerilla warfare.
- Mention the steps taken by Tipu Sultan to challenge the authority of British.
Answer – He modernised his army, built a navy, reformed trade and administration, and sought support from countries like France, Turkey, and Iran against the British.
- Explain the achievements of Maharaja Ranjit Singh.
Answer – He united Sikh chiefs, established a strong kingdom in Punjab, had a secular administration, built a disciplined army, and expanded his empire to Kashmir, Peshawar, and Multan.
Value Based Question
At very young age, Shivaji got the inspiration-“This whole country is ours and is yet occupied and held by the foreigners. Let us draw the sword in defence of our motherland and liberate our country.” His mother instilled these feelings in the mind of Shivaji.
“Home is the first school of a child.” In the light of the statement, describe the role of a mother in shaping the personality of a child.
Answer – A mother plays a crucial role in shaping a child’s personality by instilling values like courage, patriotism, and responsibility. In Shivaji’s case, his mother Jija Bai inspired him with a deep sense of love for his country and duty towards his people. She nurtured him to be brave, just, and wise — showing how the home becomes the foundation for building great leaders and responsible citizens.
Map Skill
On an outline map of India-
(a) Mark the states of Punjab, Hyderabad and Bengal in the eighteenth century and colour them.
Answer – Students will do this at their own.
(b) Draw the present boundaries of Punjab, Andhra Pradesh and West Bengal.
Answer – Students will do this at their own.
(c) Draw the boundaries of the states of Awadh under Safdar Jung, Mysore under Tipu Sultan, Punjab under Ranjit Singh and the Maratha under Shivaji.
Answer – Students will do this at their own.
Something To Do
- Collect information about the brave deeds of Tipu Sultan and Shivaji. Narrate them in your class or dramatise the stories.
Answer – Tipu Sultan bravely fought the British in four Anglo-Mysore wars and died fighting in the Battle of Seringapatam.
Shivaji’s daring escape from the Mughal court in fruit baskets and his effective use of guerilla tactics are examples of his bravery.
- Make a group presentation in the class about Marathas, Sikhs and Rajputs. Also give information about the language they spoke, the dresses they wore, the weapons they used and the tactics they adopted to gain control of new territories.
Answer – Marathas: Spoke Marathi; wore dhotis and turbans; used swords and spears; used guerilla warfare.
Sikhs: Spoke Punjabi; wore turbans and tunics; used swords, matchlocks; fought with discipline and unity.
Rajputs: Spoke Rajasthani dialects; wore elaborate turbans and angarkhas; used bows, swords, and horses; known for their valour and chivalry in open warfare.
Additional Questions And Answers – 01
Fill in the Blanks (with Answers)
- The Mughal emperor after whose death the empire declined was Aurangzeb.
- Murshid Quli Khan was the first Nawab of Bengal.
- Banda Bahadur was a disciple of Guru Gobind Singh.
- The Marathas collected chauth and sardeshmukhi as taxes.
- Tipu Sultan was known as the ‘Tiger of Mysore’.
- Sikhs established their power in Punjab under Maharaja Ranjit Singh.
- Nizam-ul-Mulk Asaf Jah laid the foundation of the Hyderabad state.
- The capital of the Maratha empire under Shivaji was Raigad.
- Sawai Jai Singh founded the city of Jaipur.
- The Nawabs of Bengal built roads and thanas to improve trade.
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs with Answers)
- Who was the founder of Hyderabad state?
(a) Tipu Sultan (b) Murshid Quli Khan (c) Nizam-ul-Mulk (d) Ranjit Singh
Answer: (c) Nizam-ul-Mulk - Which Maratha leader began the Peshwa rule?
(a) Balaji Baji Rao (b) Shivaji (c) Balaji Vishwanath (d) Shahu
Answer: (c) Balaji Vishwanath - Which religion was founded by Guru Nanak?
(a) Islam (b) Sikhism (c) Jainism (d) Buddhism
Answer: (b) Sikhism - Which state did not openly break from the Mughal empire?
(a) Punjab (b) Awadh (c) Rajputana (d) Maratha
Answer: (b) Awadh - Which of the following taxes was NOT collected by the Marathas?
(a) Chauth (b) Sardeshmukhi (c) Jizya (d) Land revenue
Answer: (c) Jizya
True / False Questions (with Answers)
- The Mughal Empire remained powerful till the 19th century.
Answer: False - Shivaji was the founder of the Maratha empire.
Answer: True - Banda Bahadur established a strong Sikh empire in Punjab.
Answer: False - The Nawabs of Bengal supported foreign trade.
Answer: True - Tipu Sultan was defeated and killed in the Battle of Plassey.
Answer: False
Competency-Based Questions (with Answers)
- Question: How did the weakening of Mughal central authority affect regional politics in India?
Answer: It allowed regional leaders like the Nawabs of Bengal, Hyderabad, and Awadh to assert greater autonomy and eventually form independent or semi-independent kingdoms. - Question: Why was guerilla warfare suitable for the Marathas?
Answer: The mountainous terrain of the Deccan made large battles difficult, and small, swift attacks were more effective against larger, less mobile armies.
High Order Thinking Skill (HOTS) Questions (with Answers)
- Question: Compare the administrative policies of Shivaji and Ranjit Singh.
Answer: Shivaji used decentralised administration, promoted guerilla warfare, and enforced strict discipline. Ranjit Singh unified Punjab, maintained a secular administration, and modernised his army with help from European officers. - Question: What would have happened if the regional kingdoms had united against the British?
Answer: If regional kingdoms had united, they could have presented a stronger front and possibly delayed or resisted British colonization more effectively.
Short Questions (with Answers)
- Who was Tipu Sultan?
Answer: Tipu Sultan was the ruler of Mysore known for his resistance against British rule and his reforms in administration and the army. - What is chauth?
Answer: Chauth was a tax equal to one-fourth of the revenue, collected by the Marathas from territories not under their direct control. - What was the role of Saadat Khan in Awadh?
Answer: Saadat Khan established an efficient administration, reformed revenue systems, and laid the foundation of the Awadh kingdom. - Why was Shivaji considered a great military leader?
Answer: Shivaji used guerilla tactics, had a strong fort system, and inspired fierce loyalty among his soldiers.
Long Questions (within 60–70 words with Answers)
- Describe the achievements of Maharaja Ranjit Singh.
Answer: Maharaja Ranjit Singh unified various Sikh factions and established a powerful kingdom in Punjab. He maintained a secular government, modernized the army, and expanded his territory to Kashmir and Multan. His administration was known for justice and tolerance. He kept peace with the British to avoid war during his lifetime, showing his diplomatic skill. - What steps did the Nawabs of Bengal take to promote trade?
Answer: The Nawabs of Bengal built roads, maintained law and order, and established thanas. They provided equal opportunities to local and foreign merchants and ensured that East India Company officials followed the law and paid taxes like other merchants. These steps contributed to a flourishing trade environment.
Additional Questions And Answers – 02
Fill in the Blanks Questions and Answers
- Question: The Mughal Empire declined after the death of Emperor ______.
Answer: The Mughal Empire declined after the death of Emperor Aurangzeb. - Question: In 1803, the British army occupied ______ and the Mughal emperor became a pensioner.
Answer: In 1803, the British army occupied Delhi and the Mughal emperor became a pensioner. - Question: ______ Quli Khan took over control of Bengal and became its Governor in 1717 CE.
Answer: Murshid Quli Khan took over control of Bengal and became its Governor in 1717 CE. - Question: After Murshid Quli Khan, ______ and Alivardi Khan became Nawabs of Bengal.
Answer: After Murshid Quli Khan, Shuja-ud-din and Alivardi Khan became Nawabs of Bengal. - Question: The state of Awadh was founded by ______ Khan in 1722 CE.
Answer: The state of Awadh was founded by Saadat Khan in 1722 CE. - Question: Safdar Jung, who succeeded Saadat Khan, also became a ______ at the Mughal court.
Answer: Safdar Jung, who succeeded Saadat Khan, also became a Wazir at the Mughal court. - Question: The state of Hyderabad was founded by Nizam-ul-Mulk ______ Jah in 1724 CE.
Answer: The state of Hyderabad was founded by Nizam-ul-Mulk Asaf Jah in 1724 CE. - Question: The tenth Sikh guru, ______ Singh, transformed the Sikhs into a political and military force.
Answer: The tenth Sikh guru, Gobind Singh, transformed the Sikhs into a political and military force. - Question: After Guru Gobind Singh, ______ Bahadur led the Sikhs against the Mughal army.
Answer: After Guru Gobind Singh, Banda Bahadur led the Sikhs against the Mughal army. - Question: At the end of the 18th century, ______ Singh established a Sikh kingdom in Punjab.
Answer: At the end of the 18th century, Ranjit Singh established a Sikh kingdom in Punjab. - Question: ______ laid the foundation of the Maratha state during Aurangzeb’s reign.
Answer: Shivaji laid the foundation of the Maratha state during Aurangzeb’s reign. - Question: Shivaji took the title of ______ after establishing a Hindu state.
Answer: Shivaji took the title of Chhatrapati after establishing a Hindu state. - Question: The Maratha tax ______ was one-fourth of the land revenue for protection.
Answer: The Maratha tax chauth was one-fourth of the land revenue for protection. - Question: The additional Maratha tax of ten percent was called ______.
Answer: The additional Maratha tax of ten percent was called sardeshmukhi. - Question: Shivaji’s army was well-known for ______ warfare in mountainous regions.
Answer: Shivaji’s army was well-known for guerilla warfare in mountainous regions. - Question: ______ Singh of Marwar declared independence from the Mughal Empire after Aurangzeb.
Answer: Ajit Singh of Marwar declared independence from the Mughal Empire after Aurangzeb. - Question: Sawai ______ Singh of Amber also declared independence from the Mughals.
Answer: Sawai Jai Singh of Amber also declared independence from the Mughals. - Question: The state of Mysore rose to prominence under ______ Ali in the 18th century.
Answer: The state of Mysore rose to prominence under Haider Ali in the 18th century. - Question: After Haider Ali, ______ Sultan became the ruler of Mysore and opposed the British.
Answer: After Haider Ali, Tipu Sultan became the ruler of Mysore and opposed the British. - Question: Tipu Sultan sent ambassadors to ______, Turkey, and Iran to seek help against the British.
Answer: Tipu Sultan sent ambassadors to France, Turkey, and Iran to seek help against the British.
Multiple Choice Questions and Answers)
- Question: Who was the Mughal Emperor after whose death the empire declined?
a) Akbar
b) Aurangzeb
c) Jahangir
d) Shah Jahan
Answer: b) Aurangzeb - Question: In which year did the British army occupy Delhi, reducing the Mughal emperor to a pensioner?
a) 1707 CE
b) 1757 CE
c) 1803 CE
d) 1857 CE
Answer: c) 1803 CE - Question: Who took control of Bengal and became its Governor in 1717 CE?
a) Alivardi Khan
b) Murshid Quli Khan
c) Shuja-ud-din
d) Saadat Khan
Answer: b) Murshid Quli Khan - Question: Who succeeded Murshid Quli Khan as Nawab of Bengal?
a) Safdar Jung
b) Nizam-ul-Mulk
c) Shuja-ud-din
d) Haider Ali
Answer: c) Shuja-ud-din - Question: Who founded the state of Awadh in 1722 CE?
a) Saadat Khan
b) Safdar Jung
c) Murshid Quli Khan
d) Nizam-ul-Mulk
Answer: a) Saadat Khan - Question: What position did Safdar Jung hold at the Mughal court?
a) Subedar
b) Dewan
c) Wazir
d) Viceroy
Answer: c) Wazir - Question: Who founded the state of Hyderabad in 1724 CE?
a) Murshid Quli Khan
b) Saadat Khan
c) Nizam-ul-Mulk Asaf Jah
d) Ranjit Singh
Answer: c) Nizam-ul-Mulk Asaf Jah - Question: Who transformed the Sikhs into a political and military force?
a) Guru Nanak
b) Guru Gobind Singh
c) Banda Bahadur
d) Ranjit Singh
Answer: b) Guru Gobind Singh - Question: Who led the Sikhs after Guru Gobind Singh’s demise?
a) Ranjit Singh
b) Banda Bahadur
c) Fakir Azizuddin
d) Dewan Dina Nath
Answer: b) Banda Bahadur - Question: Who established a Sikh kingdom in Punjab at the end of the 18th century?
a) Guru Gobind Singh
b) Banda Bahadur
c) Ranjit Singh
d) Ajit Singh
Answer: c) Ranjit Singh - Question: Who laid the foundation of the Maratha state during Aurangzeb’s reign?
a) Ranjit Singh
b) Shivaji
c) Balaji Vishwanath
d) Shahu
Answer: b) Shivaji - Question: What title did Shivaji take after establishing a Hindu state?
a) Nawab
b) Chhatrapati
c) Peshwa
d) Wazir
Answer: b) Chhatrapati - Question: What was the Maratha tax called that was one-fourth of the land revenue?
a) Sardeshmukhi
b) Chauth
c) Jagir
d) Tribute
Answer: b) Chauth - Question: What was the additional Maratha tax of ten percent called?
a) Chauth
b) Sardeshmukhi
c) Jagir
d) Tribute
Answer: b) Sardeshmukhi - Question: What type of warfare was Shivaji’s army known for?
a) Naval warfare
b) Guerilla warfare
c) Siege warfare
d) Open-field warfare
Answer: b) Guerilla warfare - Question: Who was the King of Marwar who declared independence after Aurangzeb?
a) Sawai Jai Singh
b) Ajit Singh
c) Ranjit Singh
d) Shivaji
Answer: b) Ajit Singh - Question: Who was the King of Amber who declared independence from the Mughals?
a) Ajit Singh
b) Sawai Jai Singh
c) Haider Ali
d) Tipu Sultan
Answer: b) Sawai Jai Singh - Question: Who became the ruler of Mysore and fought against the Marathas and Nizam?
a) Tipu Sultan
b) Haider Ali
c) Chikka Krishna Raj
d) Wodeyar brothers
Answer: b) Haider Ali - Question: Who succeeded Haider Ali as the ruler of Mysore?
a) Chikka Krishna Raj
b) Tipu Sultan
c) Wodeyar brothers
d) Nizam-ul-Mulk
Answer: b) Tipu Sultan - Question: To which country did Tipu Sultan send ambassadors to seek help against the British?
a) Spain
b) France
c) Portugal
d) Germany
Answer: b) France
True/False Questions and Answers
- Question: The Mughal Empire declined after the death of Aurangzeb.
Answer: True - Question: The British army occupied Delhi in 1757 CE.
Answer: False (It was in 1803 CE.) - Question: Murshid Quli Khan became the Governor of Bengal in 1717 CE.
Answer: True - Question: Shuja-ud-din succeeded Alivardi Khan as Nawab of Bengal.
Answer: False (Shuja-ud-din preceded Alivardi Khan.) - Question: Saadat Khan founded the state of Awadh in 1722 CE.
Answer: True - Question: Safdar Jung was a Subedar at the Mughal court.
Answer: False (He was a Wazir.) - Question: Nizam-ul-Mulk Asaf Jah openly declared independence from the Mughal ruler.
Answer: False (He never openly declared independence.) - Question: Guru Gobind Singh transformed the Sikhs into a political and military force.
Answer: True - Question: Banda Bahadur successfully united the Sikhs against the Mughal army.
Answer: False (He failed due to opposition from upper castes.) - Question: Ranjit Singh established a Sikh kingdom in Punjab at the end of the 18th century.
Answer: True - Question: Shivaji laid the foundation of the Maratha state during Akbar’s reign.
Answer: False (It was during Aurangzeb’s reign.) - Question: Shivaji took the title of Chhatrapati after establishing a Hindu state.
Answer: True - Question: The Maratha tax chauth was one-tenth of the land revenue.
Answer: False (It was one-fourth.) - Question: Sardeshmukhi was an additional tax of ten percent levied by the Marathas.
Answer: True - Question: Shivaji’s army was known for guerilla warfare.
Answer: True - Question: Ajit Singh was the King of Amber who declared independence from the Mughals.
Answer: False (He was the King of Marwar; Sawai Jai Singh was the King of Amber.) - Question: Sawai Jai Singh was the King of Marwar who declared independence.
Answer: False (He was the King of Amber.) - Question: Haider Ali became the ruler of Mysore and fought against the Marathas and Nizam.
Answer: True - Question: Tipu Sultan was intolerant towards other religions.
Answer: False (He was tolerant.) - Question: Tipu Sultan sent ambassadors to France to seek help against the British.
Answer: True
Competency-Based Questions and Answers
- Question: A student learns that the Mughal Empire declined after Aurangzeb’s death. How did this lead to the emergence of independent states like Bengal and Awadh?
Answer: Aurangzeb’s death led to the Mughal Empire’s decline, with wars of succession and weak central authority creating a power vacuum. Governors like Murshid Quli Khan in Bengal (1717 CE) and Saadat Khan in Awadh (1722 CE) asserted control, establishing independent states. Local chiefs and zamindars also revolted, forming semi-independent powers, as the empire’s political and financial instability allowed regional forces to rise and govern autonomously. - Question: You read that Murshid Quli Khan reformed the revenue system in Bengal. How did his policies impact the region’s stability and trade?
Answer: Murshid Quli Khan, as Governor of Bengal in 1717 CE, reformed the revenue system by organizing collections and providing loans to poor cultivators, ensuring agricultural stability. He promoted trade by building roads and thanas, forcing even the East India Company to pay customs duties. These policies established internal and external peace, fostering economic growth and enhancing Bengal’s stability, though the Nawabs overlooked the Company’s growing threat. - Question: A classmate notes that Awadh prospered under Safdar Jung. How did his leadership contribute to the region’s development?
Answer: Safdar Jung, succeeding Saadat Khan in 1739 CE, established peace in Awadh, leading to its prosperity. His efficient administration and well-trained army, inherited from Saadat Khan, maintained order. As a Wazir at the Mughal court, he influenced broader policies, fostering stability. This peace enabled the growth of Lucknavi culture around the Awadh court, enriching the region’s cultural and economic landscape during his rule. - Question: You learn that Nizam-ul-Mulk founded Hyderabad but never openly declared independence. How did his approach reflect the political dynamics of the time?
Answer: Nizam-ul-Mulk Asaf Jah founded Hyderabad in 1724 CE but never openly declared independence, continuing to send tributes to the Mughal emperor. This reflected the political dynamics of the time, where regional leaders balanced autonomy with nominal loyalty to a weakening Mughal authority to avoid conflict. His focus on suppressing zamindar revolts and curbing corruption strengthened Hyderabad while maintaining a facade of allegiance. - Question: A teacher explains that Guru Gobind Singh transformed the Sikhs into a military force. How did this transformation impact their role in the 18th century?
Answer: Guru Gobind Singh, the tenth Sikh guru, transformed the Sikhs into a political and military force by organizing them against Aurangzeb. After his demise, Banda Bahadur led them, though unsuccessfully. The Sikhs rose again after Nadir Shah’s invasion, eventually establishing a kingdom under Ranjit Singh by the late 18th century, capturing Lahore and Amritsar, showcasing their military strength and political influence in Punjab. - Question: During a discussion, you hear that Ranjit Singh was a tolerant ruler. How did his policies contribute to the stability of his Sikh kingdom?
Answer: Ranjit Singh, ruling Punjab in the late 18th century, ensured stability by adopting religious tolerance, appointing trusted non-Sikhs like Fakir Azizuddin as minister and Dewan Dina Nath as finance minister. His diverse, well-equipped army included Sikhs, Gurkhas, and muslims, fostering unity. By avoiding conflict with the British, he preserved his kingdom, using diplomacy and military strength to maintain peace and consolidate power. - Question: You read that Shivaji established the Maratha state. How did his administrative and military strategies strengthen the Maratha power?
Answer: Shivaji founded the Maratha state, capturing forts like Torana and Purandar, and used guerilla warfare to defeat larger enemies like Bijapur. He divided his empire into Swaraj, Mulk-i-quadim, and Mughal territories, with efficient officers and havaldars managing 280 forts. Taxes like chauth and sardeshmukhi funded his administration. These strategies strengthened Maratha power, enabling expansion into Malwa, Gujarat, and Bengal, challenging Mughal authority. - Question: A news report highlights the Rajputs’ declaration of independence after Aurangzeb. Why did their lack of unity impact their power?
Answer: After Aurangzeb’s death, Rajput kings like Ajit Singh of Marwar and Sawai Jai Singh of Amber declared independence, leveraging their governorships of Surat, Agra, and Ajmer. However, mutual rivalry prevented unity, weakening their collective resistance against rising powers like the Jats and Marathas. This disunity diminished their territories and influence, as they couldn’t effectively consolidate power or counter external threats in the 18th century. - Question: You learn that Tipu Sultan opposed the British in Mysore. How did his reforms and foreign policy reflect his vision for the state?
Answer: Tipu Sultan (1782-1799 CE) modernized Mysore’s army on European lines, reformed trade, coinage, and agriculture, and protected farmers, reflecting his vision for a strong, self-reliant state. His foreign policy involved sending ambassadors to France, Turkey, and Iran to counter the British, and modernizing naval power for external trade. His staunch opposition to British dominance showcased his commitment to preserving Mysore’s independence and prosperity. - Question: A teacher mentions the social and economic conditions of 18th-century India. How did these conditions affect the independent states?
Answer: In 18th-century India, feudal divisions, economic disparity, and the backwardness of agriculture and industry under foreign companies weakened internal and external trade. Independent states like Bengal and Mysore couldn’t improve economic conditions, as social disunity and poor infrastructure hindered growth. The decline of culture, education, and industries further limited their ability to resist British expansion, contributing to their eventual subjugation.
High Order Thinking Skills (HOTS) Questions and Answers
- Question: Why might the decline of the Mughal Empire have led to the emergence of independent states, and what does this suggest about the role of central authority in governance?
Answer: The Mughal Empire’s decline after Aurangzeb’s death, marked by wars of succession and weak central authority, created a power vacuum, enabling governors like Murshid Quli Khan and Saadat Khan to establish independent states in Bengal and Awadh. This suggests central authority is crucial in governance, as its absence leads to fragmentation, allowing regional powers to assert autonomy and reshape political landscapes. - Question: How did Murshid Quli Khan’s policies in Bengal reflect his understanding of regional needs, and what does this indicate about effective leadership in a declining empire?
Answer: Murshid Quli Khan’s revenue reforms, loans to cultivators, and trade facilities in Bengal addressed economic stability and growth, ensuring peace. His equal treatment of Hindus and muslims fostered social harmony. This indicates effective leadership in a declining empire requires addressing regional needs, promoting inclusivity, and maintaining economic stability to consolidate power, though his successors’ shortsightedness towards the British threat undermined long-term success. - Question: Why might Safdar Jung’s role as Wazir at the Mughal court have strengthened Awadh, and what does this reveal about the interplay between regional and central power?
Answer: Safdar Jung’s position as Wazir allowed him to influence Mughal policies, ensuring Awadh’s stability and prosperity through peace and cultural growth, like the Lucknavi culture. This reveals that in a declining empire, regional leaders could leverage central roles to secure autonomy and resources, balancing nominal allegiance with practical independence, thus strengthening their regions amidst a weakening central authority. - Question: How did Nizam-ul-Mulk’s decision not to declare independence reflect the political strategy of Hyderabad, and what does this suggest about navigating power dynamics in the 18th century?
Answer: Nizam-ul-Mulk’s decision to send tributes to the Mughal emperor while establishing Hyderabad reflected a strategic balance, avoiding conflict with a nominal central authority while consolidating regional power. This suggests navigating 18th-century power dynamics required diplomacy and pragmatism, as openly challenging the Mughals could invite opposition, whereas maintaining allegiance ensured stability, allowing Hyderabad to focus on internal reforms and suppress zamindar revolts. - Question: Why might the Sikhs’ transformation into a military force have enabled their rise under Ranjit Singh, and what does this indicate about the role of military organization in state-building?
Answer: Guru Gobind Singh’s transformation of the Sikhs into a military force, later led by Ranjit Singh, enabled them to capitalize on Mughal decline, capturing Lahore and Amritsar. Ranjit Singh’s disciplined army, including diverse groups, fortified their power. This indicates military organization is crucial in state-building, providing the strength to secure territories, unify factions, and resist external threats, as seen in the Sikh kingdom’s expansion. - Question: How did Ranjit Singh’s religious tolerance contribute to his kingdom’s stability, and what does this suggest about the role of inclusivity in governance?
Answer: Ranjit Singh’s religious tolerance, appointing non-Sikhs like Fakir Azizuddin and Dewan Dina Nath to key roles, fostered unity among diverse communities in Punjab. His inclusive army strengthened military cohesion. This suggests inclusivity in governance builds stability by ensuring broad support, reducing internal conflicts, and enhancing administrative efficiency, allowing rulers to focus on expansion and diplomacy, as Ranjit Singh did against the British. - Question: Why might Shivaji’s use of guerilla warfare have been effective against the Mughals, and what does this reveal about the importance of adapting military strategies to geography?
Answer: Shivaji’s guerilla warfare, suited to Maharashtra’s mountainous terrain, allowed small Maratha bands to attack and retreat, outmaneuvering larger Mughal forces. His control of 280 forts further leveraged geography for defense. This reveals adapting military strategies to geography is crucial, as terrain-specific tactics can offset numerical disadvantages, enabling smaller forces to challenge empires, as the Marathas did, expanding into Malwa and Gujarat. - Question: How did the lack of unity among the Rajputs impact their power after Aurangzeb’s death, and what does this indicate about the role of collaboration in resisting external threats?
Answer: The Rajputs, under Ajit Singh and Sawai Jai Singh, declared independence post-Aurangzeb but failed to unite due to mutual rivalry, weakening their resistance against Jats, Marathas, and the British. Their territories diminished as a result. This indicates collaboration is vital in resisting external threats, as disunity fragments power, making regions vulnerable to stronger, unified adversaries, as seen in the Rajputs’ decline. - Question: Why might Tipu Sultan’s opposition to the British have been a defining feature of his rule, and what does this suggest about the role of foreign policy in state survival?
Answer: Tipu Sultan’s opposition to the British, through military reforms, naval modernization, and alliances with France, Turkey, and Iran, aimed to protect Mysore’s sovereignty. His stance defined his rule as a resistance to colonial expansion. This suggests foreign policy is critical for state survival, as strategic alliances and military preparedness can delay or counter external threats, though Tipu’s eventual defeat highlights the limits of such resistance. - Question: How did the social and economic conditions of 18th-century India affect the independent states’ ability to resist British expansion, and what does this reveal about the importance of internal cohesion?
Answer: Feudal divisions, economic disparity, and trade decline in 18th-century India weakened independent states like Bengal and Mysore, limiting their resources to resist British expansion. Social disunity and cultural stagnation further hindered collective action. This reveals internal cohesion is essential for resistance, as fragmented societies and economies cannot effectively counter external threats, allowing the British to exploit these weaknesses and establish dominance.
Short Questions and Answers
- Question: After whose death did the Mughal Empire decline?
Answer: Aurangzeb. - Question: In which year did the British occupy Delhi?
Answer: 1803 CE. - Question: Who became the Governor of Bengal in 1717 CE?
Answer: Murshid Quli Khan. - Question: Who succeeded Murshid Quli Khan in Bengal?
Answer: Shuja-ud-din. - Question: Who founded the state of Awadh?
Answer: Saadat Khan. - Question: What position did Safdar Jung hold at the Mughal court?
Answer: Wazir. - Question: Who founded the state of Hyderabad?
Answer: Nizam-ul-Mulk Asaf Jah. - Question: Who transformed the Sikhs into a military force?
Answer: Guru Gobind Singh. - Question: Who led the Sikhs after Guru Gobind Singh?
Answer: Banda Bahadur. - Question: Who established a Sikh kingdom in Punjab?
Answer: Ranjit Singh. - Question: Who founded the Maratha state?
Answer: Shivaji. - Question: What title did Shivaji take?
Answer: Chhatrapati. - Question: What was the Maratha tax for protection called?
Answer: Chauth. - Question: What was the additional Maratha tax of ten percent?
Answer: Sardeshmukhi. - Question: What type of warfare did Shivaji’s army use?
Answer: Guerilla warfare. - Question: Who was the King of Marwar who declared independence?
Answer: Ajit Singh. - Question: Who was the King of Amber who declared independence?
Answer: Sawai Jai Singh. - Question: Who became the ruler of Mysore in 1760 CE?
Answer: Haider Ali. - Question: Who succeeded Haider Ali in Mysore?
Answer: Tipu Sultan. - Question: To which country did Tipu Sultan send ambassadors?
Answer: France.
Long Questions and Answers (60-70 Words)
- Question: Describe how the decline of the Mughal Empire led to the rise of independent states.
Answer: After Aurangzeb’s death, the Mughal Empire declined due to wars of succession and weak central authority. Governors like Murshid Quli Khan in Bengal (1717 CE) and Saadat Khan in Awadh (1722 CE) established independent states, while local chiefs revolted, forming powers like the Marathas and Sikhs. This fragmentation, worsened by political and financial instability, allowed regional forces to assert autonomy, reshaping India’s political landscape in the 18th century. - Question: Explain Murshid Quli Khan’s contributions to Bengal’s stability and trade.
Answer: Murshid Quli Khan, Governor of Bengal in 1717 CE, reformed the revenue system, providing loans to cultivators, ensuring agricultural stability. He built roads and thanas to promote trade, forcing the East India Company to pay customs duties like local merchants. These measures established peace, fostering economic growth and stability in Bengal, though the Nawabs’ failure to recognize the Company’s threat later undermined their rule. - Question: Discuss Safdar Jung’s role in Awadh’s development and prosperity.
Answer: Safdar Jung, succeeding Saadat Khan in 1739 CE, established peace in Awadh, promoting prosperity through efficient administration and a well-trained army. As Wazir at the Mughal court, he influenced policies, ensuring stability. This peace facilitated the growth of Lucknavi culture around the Awadh court, enriching the region’s cultural identity and economic development, making Awadh a thriving center in the 18th century. - Question: Describe Nizam-ul-Mulk’s approach to establishing Hyderabad as an independent state.
Answer: Nizam-ul-Mulk Asaf Jah founded Hyderabad in 1724 CE, suppressing zamindar revolts and curbing revenue corruption to establish an efficient administration. Though he never openly declared independence, he sent tributes to the Mughal emperor, balancing autonomy with nominal loyalty. This pragmatic approach ensured Hyderabad’s stability, allowing focus on internal reforms, though disturbances arose after his death in 1748 CE, weakening the state. - Question: Explain the Sikhs’ rise to power under Ranjit Singh in the 18th century.
Answer: The Sikhs, transformed into a military force by Guru Gobind Singh, rose after Nadir Shah’s invasion, capturing Punjab under Ranjit Singh by the late 18th century. He conquered Lahore, Amritsar, Kashmir, and Peshawar, uniting Sikh chiefs with a disciplined army of Sikhs, Gurkhas, and muslims. His religious tolerance and diplomacy against the British ensured stability, establishing a powerful Sikh kingdom until his death. - Question: Discuss Shivaji’s military and administrative strategies in building the Maratha state.
Answer: Shivaji founded the Maratha state, capturing forts like Torana and using guerilla warfare to defeat larger enemies like Bijapur. He controlled 280 forts with havaldars, dividing his empire into Swaraj, Mulk-i-quadim, and Mughal territories. Taxes like chauth and sardeshmukhi funded his administration, while an efficient officer team managed the state. These strategies enabled Maratha expansion into Malwa, Gujarat, and Bengal, challenging Mughal dominance. - Question: Describe the impact of the Rajputs’ lack of unity on their power after Aurangzeb’s death.
Answer: After Aurangzeb’s death, Rajput kings like Ajit Singh of Marwar and Sawai Jai Singh of Amber declared independence but failed to unite due to mutual rivalry. This disunity weakened their resistance against rising powers like the Jats and Marathas, diminishing their territories. The lack of collaboration left them vulnerable, reducing their influence and preventing a consolidated Rajput resurgence in the 18th century. - Question: Explain Tipu Sultan’s reforms and foreign policy in Mysore.
Answer: Tipu Sultan (1782-1799 CE) modernized Mysore’s army on European lines, reformed trade, coinage, and agriculture, protecting farmers and encouraging hardwork. He sent ambassadors to France, Turkey, and Iran to counter the British, modernizing naval power for trade. His policies reflected a vision for a strong, independent Mysore, though his opposition to the British ultimately led to his defeat, showcasing the limits of resistance. - Question: Discuss the social and economic conditions of 18th-century India and their impact on independent states.
Answer: In 18th-century India, feudal divisions, economic disparity, and trade decline under foreign companies weakened independent states like Bengal and Mysore. Social disunity, poor women’s conditions, and cultural stagnation hindered growth, while backward agriculture and industry limited resources. These conditions prevented states from resisting British expansion effectively, as internal weaknesses and lack of cohesion allowed the British to exploit divisions and establish dominance. - Question: Describe Ranjit Singh’s policies that ensured the stability of his Sikh kingdom.
Answer: Ranjit Singh ensured stability in his Sikh kingdom by adopting religious tolerance, appointing non-Sikhs like Fakir Azizuddin and Dewan Dina Nath to key roles, fostering unity. His diverse, disciplined army, including Sikhs, Gurkhas, and muslims, strengthened military power. By avoiding conflict with the British through diplomacy, he preserved his kingdom, consolidating control over Punjab, Kashmir, and Peshawar until his death.