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CONTENTS

SECTION 1: 4
HISTORY OF PAKISTAN MOVEMENT
Reformers: 5
 Shah Wali Ullah 5
 Syed Ahmad Barelvi 7
 Haji Shariat Ullah 9
Decline of Mughal Empire 12
War of Independence 22
Sir Syed Ahmad Khan 26
Languages 31
 Urdu 32
 Balochi 33
 Punjabi 33
 Pushto 33
 Sindhi 33
SECTION 2:

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3
SECTION 1:
HISTORY
OF
PAKISTAN
MOVEMENT

REFORMERS
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 SHAH WALIULLAH
4 MARKS:
Q Who was Shah Wali Ullah?
Ans: Shah Wali Ullah was born on 21 Feb 1703. His real name was Qutub – Ud – Din but he
later became known as Shah Wali Ullah due to his piety. His Father name was Shah Abdul
Rahim who founded the Madrassa Rehimiya. He went to hajj on 1724 where he became
influenced by Sheikh Abu Tahir. He believed that major Problem of Muslim was due to the
ignorance of Quran. Therefore, he translated the Quran into Persian which enabled more
people to read and understand it. He also wrote many books, most famous ones are
Izalat - e - Akhfa and Hajjat – ul - Baligha. He also fought the 3rd battle of Panipat against the
Marathas.

Q Who was Ahmad Shah Durrani?

Ans: Ahmed Shah was the name belonged to Durrani (Afghan) tribe resident of Abdal of
Afghanistan. Therefore he is known with both the titles "Abdali & Durrani". He was an excellent
military general with war tactics. He had decisively defeated Marathas at the 3rd battle of
Panipat in 1761. It was a great help to the Muslims of Delhi. The Marathas never dared to come
to Delhi, He could not take advantage of most of his victories as his fellow generals revolted and
he had to return to Kabul where he died.

Q Who was Shah Abdul Rahim?

Ans: He was the Father of Shah Wali Ullah. He Founded the Madrassa Rehimiya to bring
spiritual revival in the Muslims. He was Also Known to have compiled the Fatwa – e – Alamgir.
He also gained the support at Aurangzeb at that time.

Q What was Madrassa Rehmiya?

Ans: Madrassa Rehmiya was formed by Shah Abdul Rahim. He wanted to revive Islam in the
subcontinent through teaching in madrassa. Later after his death, Shah Wali Ullah started
teaching at the Madrassa and continued his father mission.

Q Describe the achievements of Shah Wali Ullah in reviving Islam?

Ans: Shah Wali Ullah did a meritorious job by reviving Muslim society during the decline of
Mughal Empire. He wrote many books into Arabic and Persian. The famous books are "Hajjat-
al- Balaghah" and "lzlat-ul-Akhfa". He translated the Quran into Persian to guide the Muslims on
the footsteps of Prophet Mohammad (S.A.W) by preaching Muslims and tried to remove "Shia
Sunni" grouping and to re-unite them. He also defended the Muslims of Delhi by defeating
Marathas at the 3rd battle of Panipat in 1761.

Q Who was Raja Ranjit Singh?

Ans: Ranjit Singh was a strong Sikh ruler of Punjab, Kashmir and parts of NWFP. He was
able to modernize his army with the help of French. Muslim of Punjab were not allowed to
perform Azan and cow slaughtering during his rule. He died in 1839.

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7 MARKS:
Q Why were there attempts to revive Islam in the Sub-continent during the eighteen and
nineteenth centuries?
Ans: The Mughal Empire was declining. Aurangzeb had been away from the capital for the last
25 years. His successors were not capable to look after the society. The Muslim society had
been divided into groups and sects. The Muslims had lost the socio-political influence,
economically they were weak.

During the period Sikhs and Marathas were growing their power. The Marathas had started
raiding up to Delhi. In the Punjab the Sikh ruler Raja Ranjeet Singh had put certain bans on the
Muslims. They could not perform their prayers freely even.

Therefore Shah Waliullah in Delhi brought reforms, in Punjab Syed Ahmed Shaheed Barelvi
launched "jihad" to relieve the Muslims from the Sikhs tyrannical rule and in Bengal Haji Shariat
ullah had launched Faraizi movement.

Q Why were there attempts to revive Islam in the Sub-continent during the eighteen and
nineteenth centuries?
Ans: Muslims had been diverted from Islam, they were weak, downtrodden, declining and were
under a threat of un-Islamic forces.

The Muslim society had become spoiled because of the decline of Mughal Empire and the non-
capable Mughal rulers.

Many un-Islamic evils had crept to Islamic rituals, customs and practices. The Muslim society
had become divided into groups and sects. Specially "Shia - Sunni". The Marathas were
growing their power and had started attacking even up to Delhi. Once they had besieged Delhi
for 3 months.

Shah Wali Ullah was deeply disturbed to see all this and decided to reform the Muslim society.
He wrote books, translated Quran into Persian, convinced Muslims to be united and defended
Muslims by fighting against Marathas at the 3d battle of Panipat.

Q Why did Shah Wali Ullah translated the Holy Quran in Persian?
Ans: Quran was written in Arabic language and very less people could spoke Arabic and this
caused many people unaware what is written in the holy Quran and it was not widely studied.

It was also due to their ignorance about Islam and the holy Quran. He felt that an emphasis on
Quranic teachings would not only improve their knowledge, it would reduce sectarian
differences and create a feeling of solidary.

Another Reason was that he realized that tents of Islam could only be followed properly unless
the Quran was understood itself. In order to spread the teaching of Quran, he translated the
Holy Quran.

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Q Why did Shah Wali Ullah have such a major / important influence on the revival of Islam in
the sub-continent?
Ans: He was well known figure belonged to a scholarly family. He had defined the reasons for
the decline lying in the Muslim deviation from Islam, their dis-unity and lives under foreign
threats.

His major influence was because of his majority of followers who were guided on the objectives
of Islam. He had translated the holy Quran in Persian so that the meaning of the Quran could be
understood and followed. He also wrote a large number of books to serve this purpose.

He had his major influences because of understanding the importance of unity, therefore he
convinced "Shias and Sunnis" not to be divided.

He had also realized the weakness of the Mughal empire especially growing power of Marathas.
To save the Muslims of Delhi from further disaster, invited Ahmad Shah Abdali (Durrani) From
Afghanistan and was successful in defeating the Marathas in the 3rd battle of Panipat in 1761.

SYED AHMAD SHAHEED BARAILVI

4 MARKS:
Q Who was Syed Ahmad Shaheed Barelvi?
Ans: Syed Ahmad Barelvi was born on 29th of November 1786 in Rai Barelley in India. He was
also known as Syed Ahmad Shaheed. When Syed Ahmad was born it was the time when the
Muslims of India were facing downfall by the hands of the British, Sikhs, and Hindus after such a
glorious past. He launched his struggle against the enemies of Islam which were becoming fatal
threat to the survival of Islam. His main struggle was against the Sikhs of the Punjab who were
becoming biggest hindrance in the way of survival of Islam in Punjab and North Frontier regions
of India. His main aim was to establish a Muslim state in Peshawar region but his dream could
not materialized after his martyrdom in Balakot region in a battle against Sikhs. He was the
initiator of famous Jihad movement or Mujahedeen Movement against Sikhs. He was a follower
of Shah Abdul Aziz son of great Muslim reformist Shah Walliullah.

Q What was Jihad Movement?

Ans: Jihad movement was started by Syed Ahmad to free Muslims from the non-Muslims
oppressions. Its followers were called Mujahedeen. Jihad movement was targeted by Sikh
regime of Ranjit Singh as he introduced anti-Islamic policies. Jihad movement suffered a great
loss in battle of balakot in 1831 which killed 600 mujahedeen, Syed Ahmad and shah Ismail.
However it continued until 1860 long after sir Syed death.
Q Who was Mujahedeen?
Ans: Mujahedeen were the followers of Syed Ahmad who believed in Jihad movement against
the Sikhs who were oppressing them. They numbered 80,000 ad were from different areas.
They were mostly blacksmiths or teachers and were not trained soldiers. They were successful

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in taking over Okara, Peshawar and Hazarath. However, the defeat of mujahedeen in battle of
balakot in 1831 in which 600 of them were killed which was as a serious setback for Muslims.

Q What was the Battle of Balakot?

Ans: It was fought between Sikhs and mujahedeen in 1831. Syed Ahmad moved his forces to
balakot as it was safe due to mountains. However Sikhs bribed local rulers who showed them a
secret way through the mountains. Sikhs launched a surprise attack killing 600 Mujahedeen,
Syed Ahmad and Shah Ismail leaving jihad movement leaderless.

7 MARKS:

Q Why did Syed Ahmad Barelvi wish to revive Islam in the sub-continent?
Ans: By this time un-Islamic ideas were continued, the Muslims were weak and degenerated,
they were under the Sikh domination.

According to him "Jihad" was the only way to unite the Muslims, to bring them under Islamic
way of life and to relieve them from the tyrannical Sikh domination. To fulfill the dream of Shah
Wali Ullah, to regain past glory, the power of the Muslims was necessary. So, he decided to
launch jihad.

In the Punjab the rule of Raja Ranjit Singh (1719-39) was very oppressive for the Muslims. Even
Azan was not allowed and mosques were used as stables for the horses. Jihad was the only
option to get rid of this oppression.

Q Why did Syed Ahmad Barelvi have such a major influence on the revival of Islam in the sub-
continent?
Ans: His major influence laid in his jihad against Sikh ruler Ranjit Singh. He believed that jihad
was the only solution for relieving the Muslims from the Sikh domination and to bring unity and
to bring them to the footsteps of Prophet Mohammad (S.A.W).

He was most influenced in convincing the Muslims of the sub-continent to form the army of
mujahedeen and to declare an Islamic state.

He was the first person to create the spirit of self-reliance for Islam among the Muslims and the
Muslims even after him had been adhered to Islamic glory and power, although his movement
was not a success. In this war of independence 1857 the Muslims had fought against the British
with the same passion.

Q Why did Syed Ahmad Barelvi started the jihad movement?

Ans: Firstly, as a man of action, he believed that armed struggle was the only way to overthrow
the Muslim oppression and restore Muslim powers. The main purpose of jihad movement and
Syed Ahmad was to establish a state based on Islamic principles

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Secondly, at the time of Syed Ahmad, areas of NWFP and Punjab were under Sikh ruler, Ranjit
Singh who did not gave Muslims religious liberty. There was ban on azaan and tax on beard.
Therefore he believed Islam can only rejunvated if Sikh rule was overthrown and began jihad
movement.

Lastly, as being a follower of Shah Wali Ullah in madrassa Rehmiya, he was also influenced by
his beliefs. Therefore, he started jihad movement to purify Islam, remove Hindu influences and
end social evils and moral corrupt on in society.

HAJI SHARIATULLAH
Q What was the Faraizi movement?
Ans: The Faraizi movement was founded by Haji Shariat Ullah in Bengal to restore the pride of
lslam. He wanted to revive lslam and remove Hindu practices from the Muslim society, He
emphasized "farz namaz (obligatory prayers) and to lead a righteous life. THis unity of Muslims
alarmed Hindus. During his lifetime Faraizi movement could not develop much. After his death
the movement was re-organized by his son Muhammad Mohsin (Dudu mian). This movement
was finished after his death.

Q Who was Titu Mir?

Ans: Mir Mithar Nasir Ali (Titu Mir) was disciple of Syed Ahmed Shaheed Barelvi. He believed
that fighting one's enemies was the best cause of action. In 1830's he organized Muslims in
Bengal against Hindu atrocities. He set up his headquarters near Calcutta and gathered a small
army to defend his fellow Muslims, and declare independence. This provoked the British. In
1831 battle took place and Titu Mir was killed.

Q Describe the achievements of Haji Shariat ullah in reviving Islam.

Ans: Haji Shariat ullah, born in 1781 in East Bengal at Fareedpur district, was a religious
thinker. He had become more convinced after coming in touch with Shaikh Abdul Wahab. After
the death of Aurangzeb disintegration had started in Mughal Empire. Its majority had gone
under Hindu dominations. The Muslims were de-graded morally and ethically. At such a time
Haji Shariat Ullah launched his Faraizi movement and emphasized the Muslims to go with their
Islamic way of life, especially to perform their obligatory prayers (farz namaz) at least. The
unification of Muslims under Islamic banner was a threat to local Hindu landlords. They put their
efforts to disperse them. After his death, the movement was headed by his son but finally the
Hindu landlords were successful. To bring Islamic spirit in a Hindu dominated area was the
greatest achievement of Haji Shariat Ullah.

7 MARKS:
Q Why did Haji Shariat Ullah started Faraizi movement?

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Ans: Firstly Faraizi movement was formed to encourage Muslims to return to true Islamic duties
called fariaz. It also encourages Muslims to repeat tauba for past sins and promise t lead a
righteous life

Secondly, Muslims were historically strong in Bengal but when British took over they worked
with local zamindars (Hindus) and Muslims were reduced to poverty. Hindu Zamindars
oppressed Muslims by denying them wages for their hard work. Therefore the aim was to unite
Bengal peasantry against Hindu zamindars for their rights.

Lastly, Haji Shariat Ullah time, Muslims were getting the influence of other religion especially
Hinduism and were becoming superstitions. Therefore, he started Faraizi movement to restore
Islam to its original purity for example hated titles for peer and murid wanted them t be changed
by Ustad and Shagird.

COMBINED 14 MARKS:

Q Shah Walliullah played important role in the spread of Islam than anyone else in the sub-
continent before 1850? Explain your answer.
Ans: Shah Walliullah was the son of Shah Abdul Rahim who founded the Madrassa Rehmiya to
bring true Islamic practices back. After his death, Shah Walliullah started teaching at the
Madrassa to continue his father mission. He also write 51 books to support his mission, Most
famous ones are Izalat – e – Akhfa and Hajjat Allah al Baligha.

Secondly, Shah Wali Ullah knew that one of the reason for the decline of Mughal Empire and
the position of the Muslims were due to the ignorance of the Quran. He also knew that Persian
was the most spoken language in the Sub-Continent whereas Quran was in Arabic which was
spoke and used by very few people. Shah Walliullah translated the Quran into Persian which
enabled many people to read and understand it. Later his sons, Shah Abdul Qadir and Shah
Rafi translated the Quran into Urdu which enabled more and more people to understand it.

Thirdly, Shah Walliullah fought the 3rd battle of Panipat against the Marathas as they were the
great threat to Islam. He called on all noble leaders to join together against them. He also
succeeded in calling Ahmad shah Abdali from Afghanistan and together defeated the Marathas.
The Marathas never dared to come to Delhi again. However, despite his effort to unite the
Muslims, they didn’t not unite to take the advantage of the Marathas defeat.

There were other leaders too like Syed Ahmad Barelvi had launched armed struggle to liberate
the Muslims of the Punjab and the NWFP from the tyrannical clutches of the Raja Ranjit Singh.
There was no freedom of worship. Even Adan was not allowed. Mosques were used as Stable
for Horses. Syed Ahmad Barelvi, a student of madrassa Rehmiya launched Jihad against Him.
The Muhajideen fought many battles and got victory. However they suffered defeat in the battle
of Balakot and many of them were killed. Though it failed however it was the first attempt of the
Muslims.

Haji Shariat Ullah also contributed in the revival of Islam. Haji Shariat Ullah believed that the
Muslims had got away from the true Islamic practices called Fariaz and to restore it, he started a
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movement called Faraizi movement by which Muslims get to know about their obligations. The
movement did not develop much during his lifetime however after his death, the movement was
reorganized by his son Mohsin Ud din.

All the 3 Reformers contributed in the revival of Islam. Syed Ahmad Barelvi launched the jihad
movement and fought many battles. Haji Shariat Ullah started Faraizi movement to restore
Islam and preaching and Shah Walliullah did preaching, Wrote books, translated the Quran and
fought the 3rd battle of Panipat. This I agree with this statement.

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 DECLINE OF MUGHAL
EMPIRE
Q Who was Aurangzeb?
Ans: Aurangzeb was the sixth Mughal emperor. His father name was Shah Jehan. He got into
power by defeating his brother Dara Sheikh. He was an Islamic ruler and brought back jizya
which was abolished by Akbar. He divided the empire between his 3 sons before his death in
1707.

Q What is Jizya?
Ans: From earliest Islamic period, we find that the jizya tax was imposed on those who did not
serve in the army. During the Mughal times, those wished to remain Hindu had to pay the tax. In
1579. Akbar had abolished the tax, but later, Aurangzeb the 6th emperor levied this tax on non-
Muslims monks and beggars were not exempted from this tax.

Q Who were Marathas?

Ans: Marathas were the Hindu group in southern India. They were skilled guerrilla warriors who
started to acquire Mughal land under their leader Shiraji. In 1737, they took over Delhi and by
1760 they became the strongest force in Delhi. However they were defeated by Ahmad shah
Abdali in 1761 and they never dared to come back.

Q Who was Robert Clive?

Ans: He was the British officer in India. He is seen as the founder of British India. He defeated
the Nawab Siraj ul Daula in the battle of plassey and brought the richest state Bengal under the
British. He also defeated the combined forces of Shah Alam II, Mir Qasim and Nawab of Oudh.
To reward him, he was made the nawab of Bengal but later charged with plunder in Bengal. He
committed suicide mainly due to opium addiction in 1773.

Q What was the Battle of Plassey?

Ans: The Battle of plassey as fought between Nawab Siraj Ud Daula and British (Robert Clive).
To win this battle, the British bribed Mir Jafar due to which Siraj – Ud – Daula suffered Defeat.
His dead body was found in the river. Mir Jafar was made the Nawab of Bengal and the Richest
State Bengal came into the hands of the British.

Q What was the Battle of Buxar?

Ans: Mir Jafar son, Mir Qasim joined the forces with Mughal emperor Shah Alam II and Nawab
of Oudh to drive EIC out of India. They could not defeat them and suffered defeat. After the
Battle, the British took control of the revenue collected from Bihar, Bengal and Orissa and its
Influence increase in Oudh.

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Q Who was Tipu Sultan?
Ans: Tipu Sultan, known as Bengal Tiger', was the son of Haider Ali, the ruler of Mysore. He
continued his father's mission and had fiercely resisted the rule of East India Company in
Karnatak in the last decade of 18th century. He used to quote 'One day life of tiger is better than
hundred day’s life of a jackal'. He fought three Karnatak wars against East India Company. Both
of his sons were also made captive. During the governor generalship of Lord Waltesley in 1799
in III Battle of Karnatak fought at Srirangapatna. Tipu Sultan was killed and Karnatak becomes a
part of British domain.

Q What was the EIC?

Ans: The British East India Company was founded in 1601, after signing of the charter of
companies by Queen Elizabeth I, to trade with India. They got success and set their settlements
(factories) at Calcutta, Surat, Madras and Bombay. Gradually they started taking interest in local
politics and started their policy of annexation first Bengal, Mysore and then others. By 1857 after
defeating Indian freedom fighters and Mughal armies, it became the master of the Sub-
Continent. In 1858 East India Company was ceased and the British rule promulgated in India.

Q What was the Pits India Act?

Ans: It was the act of parliament passed by the British through which it took control of the EIC. It
appointed the governor general to have control over 3 presidencies and provisional governor
along with commander in chief of army. Police force and civil service were also introduced but
local people were not given jobs in it. EIC continued to trade but lost administrative powers.

Q What was Suttee?

Ans: Suttee was the indian-hindu ritual in which widows were burned on death of their husband.
It was first banned by Aurangzeb. Christian missionaries tried to ban it but this bold step was
taken by Lord Bentinck.

Q What was Thugee?

Ans: They were armed robbers in central and upper India. They claimed that they ere serving
their goddess. They used to murder victims and terrified people. In 1830, all Thugee were
captured and dealt by colonel seleman.

Q Who was Siraj – Ud – Daula?

Ans: He was the last independent nawab of Bengal. Due to the support from French he attacked
British presidency at Calcutta and captured it. However, Robert Clive defeated him and took
over. This was due to the treachery of his key man, Mir jafar who was bribed and exposed war
plan. He was executed by the British.

Q Who was Warren Hastings?

Ans: Warren Hastings was the first Governor General of Bengal between 1772 and 1785. An
employ of East India Company had risen through the ranks. His main aim was to increase the
power of the government. With his effort the revenue was increased, though it gave rise to
corruption. He also extended British Control of India by wars against the Marathas (1778-82),

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Haider Ali of Mysore (1780-84) and his son Tipu Sultan, who fiercely resisted. To finance these
military ventures Warren Hastings took bribe from Indian Princes for which he charged.

Q Who was Lord Wellesley?

Ans: Lord Wellesley came to India in 1798 as Governor General of India. Credit goes to him to
bring more and more land of India under East India Company's control. He persuaded the
Indian rulers to accept (sign) 'Subsidiary Alliance'. After being defeated in 1800 1lyderabad, in
1801 Oudh (Lucknow) and in 1802 Peshwas (Maratha) came under British protection. The
British protected rulers were forbidden for any other alliance they could carry out their jobs and
to protect the British rights a British resident advisor was appointed in each state. The ruler had
to bear the cost and expenses of the 'Advisor'. Likewise Lord Wellesley did the best British
reinforcement to grab and control Indian lands.

Q Who was Mir Qasim?

Ans: Mir Qasim was the Nawab of Bengal from 1760-63. As he did not approve of the British
exploiting the North-Eastern states (Bengal, Bihar and Oudh) joined forces with the Mughal
Emperor Shah Alam II and Nawab of Oudh to challenge the British, Siraj-Ud-Daula of Oudh,
Shah Alam II and Mir Qasim were defeated by the British.

Q How did British Annexed Sindh?

Ans: Sindh was ruled by the collection of Amirs. The Amirs had signed a treaty of friendship with
the British in 1809. British fear that the Sikh ruler was following the policy of expanding
extending his empire so he might annex Sindh. To annex Sindh, they just needed an excuse. To
get that that provoked the amirs of Sindh so much that they attacked the British residency. Now
they got the excuse and defeated them and annexed Sindh. They later admitted that they had
no right but they wanted to annex it so they did.

Q How did the British Annex Punjab?

Ans: Raja Ranjit Singh had signed a friendship treaty with British in 1809. However, Raja Ranjit
Singh died and rival chief started fighting that who shall be the next king. The Sikh fear that the
British would invade Punjab so they launched the attack on British. The British defeated them in
the battle of aiwal in Jan 1846 and force them to sign the treaty of Lahore. In the 2nd Sikh war
they were again defeated and Sikh empire came to an end. Punjab and NWFP became part of
British.

Q Who were zamindars?

Ans: The term zamindars' is used for a heredity arable land owner. They were the revenue
collectors also. They had been very influential during the Mughal Empire. Some of them were
having their own army also. After the death of Aurangzeb (1707) the dismemberment of Mughal
Empire started. The zamindars were also increasingly unwilling to pay revenue to Delhi Darbar.
Some of them had been harsh to Muslims and had imposed beard tax (East Bengal) even which
formed the Muslims (Titu Mir) to revolt against them. Majority of them were the Hindus who
were very oppressive to Muslims.

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Q Who was Ranjit Singh?
Ans: Raja Ranjit Singh was the Sikh ruler of the Punjab, who was anti Muslims and had made
many atrocities upon the Muslims. Syed Ahmed Shaheed Barelvi had declared jihad against
him. Raja Ranjit Singh had made a treaty with the British and helped the British in their
expansion in Afghanistan. After Raja's death East India Company had annexed Punjab after
2nd Sikh war (1848-49) by Lord Dalhousie.

7 MARKS:
Q Why did British came to India?
Ans: Firstly, The EIC wanted to trade in East indies but Dutch were dominant there and they did
not let them stay so they had to move to India where in 1615, Jahangir allowed them to trade.

Secondly, India was one of the wealthiest country and it was known as Golden Sparrow. The
British saw its wealth and saw it as a golden opportunity to make maximize profit.

Lastly, Britain had a harsh climate and port remained frozen all year long. Therefore, they came
to India as India had 3 warm sea ports, Kolkata, Madras and Bombay which were operation
throughout year.

Q Why were British able to conquer India?

Ans: Firstly, The British were able to take over India by 1850. This was because they have
superior weapons, well equipped army and light weighted and sophisticated weapons which
were light to carry. They also had a discipline in the battlefield.

Secondly, Mughal Empire had become weakened due to succession disputed and invaders. It
had been divided into many small fractions which reduced their power. Therefore the British
took advantage of the situation.

Lastly, British network of roads and railways benefited them by increasing communication
standard and wealth. Also, battle of plassey brought vast riches of Bengal which British could
use for military conquests.

Q Briefly explain three reasons for the decline of Mughal Empire?

Ans: The reasons behind the decline were - vastness of the empire, bankruptcy, Ease loving,
wars of succession and the most important is the in-competency of later Mughals.

During the reign of Aurangzeb the Mughal Empire expanded too much, even Bijapur in the
south was also conquered. The administration was weak. Proper and systematic administration
was lacking.

Wars of succession were other reason which made the empire bankrupt and the later Mughals
could not pay proper attention to law and order, this gave rise to conspiracies.

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Non competency was the main and the most important reason for the downfall. If the later
Mughal would have been capable, they could handle every sort of situation.

Q Explain why Mughal Empire Decline following the reign of Aurangzeb?

Ans: By the death of Aurangzeb in 1707 the Mughal Empire expanded to its zenith. Contrary to
this the emperor had been absent from center for more than 25 years as he had been busy in
war against Marathas.

After the death of Aurangzeb, there was a series of wars of succession resulted in the loss of
army expertise and funds. Moreover foreign attacks like Nadir Shah plundered the country. The
later Mughals were quite non capable. They could have been competent. They would have
handled every sort of situation. The British storm worked as a nail to the declining coffin of
Mughal Empire.

Aurangzeb's successors had left administration to their ministers. The succession generally is
based on ability but here the generals had become king makers (Syed Brothers). Because of
these the treasury had become empty and the army was over stretched. Internal conflicts
sprang. The later Mughals were unable to control the empire started shrinking.

Q Why were the Marathas defeated after the decline of the Mughal
Empire?
Ans: The Marathas were divided into different factions and their loyalty to their leaders was
declined.

Firstly, there were different reasons for their defeat. The Maratha Empire become very fast
beyond control. On the other hand Indian Muslims and Afghan forces were united. The Maratha
influence under daring and ruthless leader Shivaji spread in whole southern India. The Maratha
power by 18th century had expanded across central India and in 1737 they defeated the Mughal
army outside Delhi and in 1760 they even occupied Delhi. The Marathas controlled vast areas
of Mughal Empire which they were unable to control. This led a defection in their power.

Secondly, consequently the Maratha families started showing her loyalty to local rulers rather to
their leaders and the grip on Maratha Empire started loosening.

Lastly, the main blow to them was their defeat at the 3rd battle of Panipat in 1761. In 1760 the
Marathas had besieged Delhi for about 3 months. The Delhi people - Shah Wali Ullah etc. had
invited Ahmed Shah Abdali from Afghanistan. The joint army defeated Marathas so decisively
that they never dared to come to Delhi again.

Q Why did the British government take control of the affairs of the East
India Company in the early 19th century?
Ans: The East India Company had become corrupt, Indians had started hating the British and
Russian expansions were the main reasons.

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The East India Company was a trading company but later on, the employees of East India
Company had started looking after their own interest. They were paying less taxes than they
were earning.

Due to the policies of the East India Company and their interference in socio- religious matters
of India, co-education, forceful conversion, greasy cartridge, Doctrine of Lapse etc., the Indian
had started hating the British. To remove this stain some positive steps were necessary.

Expansion of communism was also one of the main reason. To save the sub-continent the East
India Company had invaded Afghanistan in 1839 which was a miserable failure. And by 1858
East India Company had become the master of the sub-continent. To safe-guard British interest
proper the British government took control of the affairs of India in 1858 and East India
Company was ceased.

Q Why did the British build railways in India during the nineteenth Century?
Ans: There had been different reasons for the building of railways, like transporting men and
material, to modernize and to demonstrate dominance.

The British Industrial Revolution led to the rapid growth in trade with India. The British factories
needed more and more raw materials which were based on rapid and speedy transport. India
being a vast country the movement of goods and raw material was very slow. That was the
main hindrance to lower down the rate of profit.

On the other hand the troops moved speedily wherever they were needed Civil servant and
businessman could travel quickly and comfortably. In times of famine food and other essential
commodities could be moved easily Families could visit distant relations and destinations.
Pilgrims to distant places was convenient

Therefore the first public train journey took place India on 16th April 1853 from Bombay to
Thane. The British yet headed another means of extending their power and ideas across the
sub-continent. To conclude the introduction of railways was the main help to British raw material
and other goods to different parts across India.

Q Why was Robert Clive appointed the first governor of Bengal?

Ans: He was a good 'general' and capable administrator.

The reasons behind his appointment were that his commandant's ability was proved that he
won two battles and led the East India Company to become ruler of Bengal. He was a shrewd
politician and strategic administrator.

With his strategic planning the British East India Company got victory against Nawab Siraj-Ud-
Daula at the battle of Plassey in Bengal in 1757 and against Mir Qasim at the battle of Baksar in
1764. Both the battles brought complete hold on economy and profitable trade for East India
Company. Naturally Lord Clive became the hero and main figure in East India Company.

17
Born in 1725, Robert Clive had joined East India Company as a clerk. He did not like the work
sitting on desk. Obviously, he joined the army of East India Company. Soon he got a chance to
show his caliber in Anglo-French wars. The victory in 1757 at Plassey was a great success
which guaranteed the control of trade in Bengal and his victory at Baksar in 1764 made certain
that the British, thanks to Clive, were firmly in control of Eastern India. The East India Company
rewarded him by appointing him at the post of Governor of Bengal.

Q Explain why Robert Clive was successful in the Battle of Plassey in 1757.
Ans. Lord Clive was a capable general

Lord Clive was a man of courage and action. He had joined East India Company as a clerk but
with his efforts and bold steps he reached to the post of Governor of East India Company. At the
battle of Plassey he set his army strategically to charge immediately. He knew the weather
conditions and in case of rain he was ready to save the gun powder from moisture.

He also defected one of the key man of Sirajuddaulah. The defection of Mir Jafar at battle field
made Sirajuddaulah weak and disheartened. He had lost his stamina and potential against Lord
Clive. He was killed in battle field and his dead body was found nearby riverbed.

Clive had taken full advantage of this defection. He was an experienced soldier. He had fought
many battles in South East India. The tactics used in French wars helped him defeat Nawab.
The Nawab could not cover his gun powder at rain and his ammunition and arms were out of
order and was easily defeated

Q Why was Punjab Annexed?

Ans: Firstly, Punjab was a fertile land with vast agricultural resources and raw materials like
cotton and silk. The first country to experience industrial revolution was Britain and needed raw
materials to support industries. Therefore Punjab was annexed.

Secondly, Britain were following the policy of expansion and were taking control of indian lands.
Therefore, British annexed Punjab to expand their rule more effectively.

Lastly, British could not think of annexing Punjab until Ranjit Singh rule as he was a strong
leader but after his death, his successors disputers arouses and Sikh rule became weaker.
Therefore British took advantage.

14 MARKS:

Q Were successive disputes main reason for the fall of Mughal Empire? Give reasons for your
answer.
Ans: Mughal Empire had no definite law of succession which led to problems. Aurangzeb got
into power by defeating his brothers including Dara sheikh. Thereby, after Aurangzeb death in
1707, his successors started to fight for succession and situation got worse that 10 people
claimed to be emperor at same time. The succession dispute continued to erode the empire.

18
Aurangzeb policies also contributed to the downfall. Firstly, taxation was too high and he lost
support of many people. Secondly, he developed an intolerant attitude towards non-Muslims.
He brought back jizya and started to destroy temples. Drinking and dancing was also banned.
Therefore, non-Muslim started to rebel against Mughals.
Marathas from central Asia also became a threat to Muslims, they were battle-hardened
guerrilla warriors who started to capture Mughal land and even after 25 years war, and he could
not defeat them. In 1737, they took over Delhi and by 1760, became the most dominant force in
india. Moreover invasions by Nadir shah and Ahmad shah exposed their weaknesses and
Mughal Empire was confined to 300 miles in just 100 years after Aurangzeb death.

Moreover Mughal successors adopted an extravagant attitude. They became involved in their
own interest like dancing rather than welfare of the empire. It is reported that there were 100
courses on a single meal and a Peal mosque was built for Aurangzeb private prayers while they
people were suffering from drought and famine which led to discontent.

Finally, already drowning empire was crushed by British who entered as a trader and slowly with
the help of their advanced military and weapons started to conquer Muslim land and Mughal
army became weak to face them.

Thus I conclude that the Mughal empire decline due to weak and incompetent successors as if
they would have been competent they could have handled every sort of situation and British
would never be able to conquer India. Thus I disagree with this statement.

Q Was the work of Christian missionaries the most important reason why Indians opposed
British attempt to westernize them between 1750 and 1850? Give reasons for your answer.
Ans: Firstly, many Indians feared that Islam, Hinduism and Sikhism were under threat from the
British rule. The British always denied this but they were not believed. It was true, however that
Christians missionaries came to India to convert the local population as well as setup schools.
In these schools, the missionaries taught Christianity and expected locals who worked for them
to give up their religion and follow Christian teachings.

Secondly, the British replaced English as the official language of the subcontinent in place of
Persian. This made the Indian believe the British were trying to impose their language on the
Indians which upset both Hindus and Muslims. The Indians saw this as an attempt to threaten
their language therefore opposed the British attempts.

Thirdly, British introduced a number of social reforms without the consultation of the Indians and
had played with their feelings which caused more unrest. The British banned many Indians
customs such as suttee and murder of baby daughters. The Indians were forced to abandoned
purdah, which had been Indian custom for centuries. This made the Indians think that the British
were trying to Anglicize them by stopping their regional customs and imposing British rule on
them.

The Indians had to send their children to co-education schools which was hated since it
appealed to impose the British system on the Indians without due to regard to their religious and
cultural feelings. Thomas Macularly believed that European ideas of education were vastly

19
superior to anything, coming out of India and as a result, the British imposed the system of
education and promoted western education among people, who resented this.

Thus I conclude that the most important reason for the position of Indians were the Christian
missionaries the religion was very sensitive issue for the Indians and Christianity was
particularly new religion in India. Hence the Indians and Indian soldiers thought that the British
were trying to convert the whole India to Christianity.

Q Did educational reforms have a more important effect on Indians than social, religious and
economical ones introduced by the British during the years 1773 to 1856? Give reasons for
your answer.
Ans: Thomas Macularly believed that European ideas of education were vastly superior to
anything, coming out of India and as a result the British introduced a system of education that
promoted western valves on people who resented this. Indians had to send their children to co-
education which was hated since it appealed to impose the British culture on the Indians without
due regards to their religious and cultural feelings.

Christian missionaries were sent to India to convert local population as well as setup schools. In
these schools, the missionaries taught Christianity and expected locals who worked for them to
give up their religion and follow Christian teachings. This produced a fear among the Indians
that Islam, Hinduism and Sikhism were under the threat from the British rule and they began
opposing the British.

British introduced a number of social reforms without the consultation of the Indians and had
played with their feelings which caused more unrest. The Replacement of English in place of
Persian angered many Indians. The British banned many Indians customs such as suttee and
murder of baby daughters. The Indians were forced to abandoned purdah, which had been
Indian custom for centuries. This made the Indians think that the British were trying to Anglicize
them by stopping their regional customs and imposing British rule on them.

In 1852, Lord Dalhousie introduced Doctrine of Lapse through which if a ruler die without a
natural heir, his land would be taken by the British. Soon Jhansi, Nagpur and Sitara fell into the
hands of the British. They also took Nawab of Oudh land’s even though he had a natural heir.
This cause opposition of the British and the Indians now thought that British were nothing but
greedy land grabbers.

The introduction of railways in India revolutionized communication and transformed the country.
For Britain, it was means of extending their powers as it helped the industry to profit by
transporting raw materials to the port in low transport charge. For Indians, there were many
advantages, especially times of famine when food could be transported easily and Indians could
pay visit to their far off relatives.

This I conclude that the religious reforms had the greatest effect as the Indians were very
sensitive to their religion. Christian missionaries made the local Indians convert to Christianity
and the Indians thought that whole India would be converted into Christianity.

20
Q How successful were the British attempts to take control of the lands in the sub-continent
between 1750 and 1856? Give reasons for your answer.
Ans: The first opportunity came in 1757 when the battle of plassey took place. In this battle
Nawab Siraj Ud Daula was defeated and was killed. This gave the control of the Bengal in
British hands and they stored Mir jafar as a puppet ruler in Bengal. This enabled the British to
use the wealth of Bengal to increase their power.

The battle of plassey was followed by the battle of buxar in which the combined force of Mir
Qasim, Mughal Emperor Shah Alam II and the nawab of Oudh were defeated by the British and
as a result the British took direct control of revenue collection of Bihar, Orissa and Bengal and
appointed Robert Clive as the governor general of Bengal. They also extended influence into
Oudh.

The British wanted full control of south India to profit from spice trade. As a result 4 battles were
fought between the British and which was ruled by Haider Ali and then his son Tipu sultan.
Although in the first three angle Mysore wars, the British did not succeed in conquering Mysore
but in the 4th Anglo Mysore war in 1799. Tipu Sultan of Mysore was defeated and killed while
defending his fort at sirrigapatna. Hence the kingdom of Mysore fell into British hands. In
Deccan the Marathas had risen to power and gave the resistance to British. In 1818 the
Marathas were defeated and whole Deccan fell into British hands.

The British had signed a treaty of friendship with the Amirs of Sindh. However the British feared
that the Sikh ruler Raja Ranjit Sindh was following a policy of expanding his empire and thus
would soon annex Sindh. Before he does, British need to annex it but due to the friendship
treaty, the needed an excuse. For that they provoked the amirs so much that they attacked the
British presidency and British defeated them and annexed Sindh.

The British had signed a treaty of friendship with Raja Ranjit Singh in 1839, the Sikhs were
worried that British would invade Punjab and so launched an attack on British. The British
defeated the in the battle of Aiwal and forced them to sign the treaty of Lahore. Afterwards, the
2nd Sikh war took place and they were defeated again and Punjab and NWFP became part of
British Empire.

In 1852, the governor General Dalhousie introduced doctrine of lapse according to which the
states of sitara Nagpur and Jhansi fell into the hands of the British. In 1856, the nawab of Oudh
died and although he had several legal heirs, Dalhousie declared that the nawab of Oudh had
governed his people badly and annexed Oudh. People started saying British were nothing but
greedy land owners.

Thus I conclude that British were largely successful in their attempts to take control of idnain
lands because of the strength of the British army and disunity among Indians. However they
faced a few failures like in Afghanistan.

21
 WAR OF INDEPENDENCE
Q Who was Nana Sahib?
Ans: Nana Sahib was a British troop leader who had joined the revolt of 1857 at Kanpur. He had
a personal grievance also as his large pension was stopped by the British. His troops had killed
the British officers and any 1European they could find. A British force managed defensivve
position with the assurance of safe passage to the British surrendered but Nana Sahib opened
fire on the barge taking them down to river. Almost cvery soldier was killed along with 300
woman and children. The survivors were made prisoners. The British reinforcement came. Nana
Sahib killed all the captives. In retaliation the British killed the sepoys and other Indians of
Kanpur but Nana Sahib escaped.

Q What was the Battle of Kanpur?

Ans: It happened in 1857. Indians troops led by nana sahib rose up against the british. British
forces were trapped but they were agreed safe passage if they surrendered. However, after
british surrendered, nana sahib turned from his promise and attacked the british. 300 british
officers along with children and woman were killed.

Q Who was Lakshmibai?

Ans: Lakshmibai was the queen of Jhansi known as Rani of Jhansi. She had adopted a child as
an heir without seeking permission from Governor General of East India Company against the
declaration of 'Doctrine of Lapse'. She led the rebel sepoys after the British took control of
Lucknow in 1857. Tatya, an Indian general has also assisted her. In 1958 she was killed in the
battle field at Gwalior. Her career was finished but her valour was praised by Indians as she had
fought in a man's disguise.

Q What was the Doctrine of Lapse?

Ans: The Doctrine of Lapse was introduced by Lord Dalhousie in 1852. It was an attempt to
annex Indian states by the British. It stated that the state was to be annexed if the ruler died
without a male heir, adoption was not permitted. Under this application Satara, Jaipur,
Sambhalpur, Udaipur, Nagpur, and Jhansi were annexed. Battle of Jhansi had taken place
because of this inhuman act. This was the most hated step of the British. This was also one of
the main reasons for the war of independence in 1857.

Q What was the Grease cartridges?

Ans: they were introduced by the British in January 1857. It was rumored that they made of pig
and cow aft and as they had to be chewed before being used Muslins and Hindus soldiers
refused to use them as pig is haram for Muslims and cow is scared for Hindus. Mangal Pandey
was executed when he refused to use them. The cartridges were one of the reason for the
Indian revolt 1857.
22
Q What were the main events of WW1?
Ans: in 1857, a sepoys named Mangal Pandey was executed by British as he defied them.
Many sepoys in Meerut also refused to touch, the grease cartridges and they were imprisoned.
However Meerut was sacked and British officers were killed. Soldiers marched to Delhi and
captured it. The revolt spread and brutish lost control of Jhansi, Allahabad, Mathura, and
Kanpur. In Sept, British took control of Delhi and Bhahadur shah Zafar was surrendered and his
sons were killed, Lucknow was taken back too and finally also came under British in 1858.

Q What was the proclamation of Allahabad?

Ans: Proclamation of Allahabad was held at Allahabad in July 1948. It was held to war of
independence. British recognized Indian rights, no interference in religion and doctrine of lapse
abolished. British paid less attention to those in practice.

Q What were the Effects of War of Independence?

Ans: The failure of the war conformed the British masters of India. The war did not loosen
control but rather tightened it. The East India Company was abolished and the Britain took full
control of the Indians affairs. In 1877 the Queen Victoria was given the title as Empress of India
and the Mughal royal family decade away. There were very cruel acts in the war as in the town
of Cawnpore the Indians had murdered several British women and children to avenge their
deaths the British killed anyone who was sympathetic to Indians. They also introduced Viceroy
who was known responsible for all the acts in the country. He had over thousand civil servants
to help him administer the country. These ranged from highly paid judge to lowly paid junior
administer. After the War the British stopped funding Muslim schools and because Muslims still
were not ready to accept the British rule so they did not go in the British schools and became
uneducated. This was not the case with Sikhs and Hindus and they became friendly with the
British and very quickly learned to speak English. After 1857 British did not trust the Indians and
thus they were not taken in the army and the British did not allow Indians to have their own
weapons and thus making the further rebellions less effective. The Control of the British in India
was now unchallenged.

Q What were the effect of war of independence on Muslims?

Ans: The effect of war of independence on Muslims were that after the war, the British had but
put the whole responsibility of war of independence on the Muslims. They said that the Muslims
were largely to blame for the war as they wanted to restore Mughal powers. Funding to Muslims
schools were stopped and they were treated as enemies.

7 MARKS:

Q Explain three reasons for the war of independence?

Ans: Land grabbing policy was applied by the EIC. Since the beginning they made different
annexations – Bengal in 1764, Mysore in 1799, Sindh in 1843, Punjab in 1849 and Finally
“Doctrine of lapse” in 1852. All this made the Indians resented.

Secondly, they pocked their nose in Indian society and culture, they also put a ban on suttee,
infanticide, and Persian was replaced by English and in pardah observing the society co-
education schools were opened

23
Lastly, they did not leave religion either. Forceful conversion to Christianity was done . in some
schools bible was taught and finally ‘grease cartridges’ which ignited the sepoys to stand
against the British.

14 MARKS:
Q Was doctrine of Lapse main cause of war of independence? Do you agree? Give reasons for
your answer.
Ans: Doctrine of Lapse was one of the causes of war of independence (WW1). According to it in
1852, if a ruler dies without a natural heir, his land would be taken by the British. Under it sitara,
Jhansi and Nagpur fell under British hands. Nawab of Oudh’s land was also taken even though
he had natural heir. This enraged local rulers and they started to call British greedy land
grabbers.

Secondly, grease cartridges event was also the reason for the WW1. The British introduced a
new rifle which end needs to be bitten off before it could be used. Rumors spread that it was
made up of pig and cow fat. Muslims and Hindus refused to use it as for Muslims pig was haram
and for Hindus cow was scared. They refused to use it and British started to imprison them. The
Indians got angry and started to oppose the British

Thirdly, Indians claimed that the British were trying to convert the local population into
Christianity. In some schools bible was taught and the people who work under them, Christian
missionaries expected from them to give up their religion and accept Christianity. Many Indians
started to fear that soon whole of India would be converted into Christians.

Fourthly, British introduced social reforms without consultation from the Indians and they had
played with their feelings. The British considered Indians inferior to them. They used to say one
shelf to European library was far better than whole literature of Indians and Arabia. They
introduced co-education and replaced English as an official language in place of Persian. They
also banned suttee and pardah observing which outraged Indians.

Fifthly, British also exploited Indians. Taxation as too high and Indians were only given low
posts in civil service and army. Moreover as a result of industrialization revolution, imported
goods flow into India and local industries could not matched the quality of imported goods and
suffered. Unemployment rose to a record level. British also forced Hindu soldiers to fight in
Afghanistan which is against their religion and enraged them.

Thus I conclude religious issues were the main cause of war of independence as Indians were
highly devoted to their religious customs and wouldn’t compromise an attack on them.

Q War of independence failed due to lack of unity. Do you agree?

Ans: Lack of unity was one of the reason for the failure. Freedom fighters lacked unity and coo-
ordination among them mainly due to lack of communication. Three groups Sikhs, Hindus and
Muslims fought for their own purpose. Muslim fought for the restoration of the Mughals, Hindus
fought to gain control of India and Sikhs fought as Nana Sahib was deprived of power and
pension. Therefore, British found it easy to defeat them.

However, there were other reason too. Indians lacked resources of all types. They were short of
food and military equipment. Secondly, weapons were not up to date. They were fighting with

24
swords and lances which were no challenge to Enfield guns. They local merchant too refused to
finance the war which created shortage of funds.

Rebels also suffered a lot on leadership. There was no military genius or statesman worth it.
General Bakht Khan was a great military leader but was not in charge of whole army. Rani of
Jhansi was a capable woman but not a capable military general. Muslims were led by Bhahadur
Shah Zafar who was too old and incompetent.

It is also a stark fact that Indians revolt lacked support from many parts of India. Many local
rulers found their power associated with the British and supported them like ruler of Kashmir
sent 2000 men to assist British. Punjab was also not interested in supporting the war of
independence. Indians were also weakened by traitors like Maulvi Rajab Ali.

On the other hand, British were too powerful. They were also well coordinated and highly
trained, disciplined and united. As for resource, they had up to date weapons combined with
assistance provided by railways and ports for speedy transport of troops and weapons to
troublesome areas. Along with it, came confidence of winning the war. Moreover they were
blessed with competent leaders like sir henry Lawrence who adopted clever tactics to defeat
Indians. They were highly trained and disciplined diplomatic and topped spreading of revolt.

Thus, I conclude war of independence failed mainly due to lack of unity. There was no sense of
patriotism and British found it easy to defeat them.

Q War of independence achieve nothing. Do you agree?

Ans: the Indian plan to overthrow the British had failed badly. The rebellions were easily
defeated and crushed. British regained control over Delhi, Kanpur, Jhansi and Allahabad after
serious fighting and by July 1958 all uprising were suppressed and proclamation of Allahabad
was introduced.

Countless Indians lost their lives in the revolt. Later British also took revenge from Indians. They
were hanged in large number, their property was confiscated and many were driven out of jobs.
In Kanpur, British took revenge by blowing of sepoys by canons.

British found Indian Muslims responsible for the revolt as many revolts were led by Muslims who
wanted to restore Mughal power. Therefore, Muslims became the victims of atrocities of the
British after the war. They were not given jobs in civil service and were treated as rebellions by
the British.

However, war of independence became a source of pairotic inspiration for Indian people in later
years. War symbolized Indian determination to free Indians from British rule. Indians realized
that they could not withstand British power as they were too powerful and later educated
Muslims formed political parties like congress in 1885 and Muslim league in 1906and adopted
constitutional way of achieving freedom and achieved it in 1947.

On the other hand, war was absolute victory for the British. India came directly under British rule
and EIC rule was ended. British further enforced their power in India by viceroy who granted full
autonomy over Indian affairs and by reducing the number of Indians in the army to avoid mutiny
again. India became British colony and source of economic benefit and British emerged as
superpower.

25
This, I conclude that Indian revolt through achieved nothing in an immediate terms however it
did teach them a lesson that they cannot indulge in war with too powerful British.

SIR SYED AHMAD KHAN

4 MARKS:
Q What was the Loyal Mohammedans of India?
Ans: The Loyal Mohammedans of India were the pamphlets written by Sir Syed Ahmed Khan
after the mutiny of India in 1857. The concept of Muslims being inveterate admirers of the British
was eminent. Therefore, to remove the misunderstanding and to bring the Muslims close to
British, Sir Syed Ahmed Khan had brought forth the Loyal Mohammedans of India. In which he
had made it clear that in spite of the rebellion most of the Muslims were loyal to British. It was
an effort to encourage the British enthusiasm with Indians.

Q Describe the 'Hindi-Urdu-Controversy?

Ans: The 'Hindi-Urdu-Controversy' sprang in 1867 when some influential Hindus of Banaras had
started the campaign that Urdu, written in Persian script, should be discontinued in law courts
and in place Hindi, written in Davenagri script, be introduced'. Sir Syed was alert and realized
that Muslim language and culture was to be doomed. He put all his efforts to safe guard Urdu.
His whole emphasis and persuasion is known as 'Hindi-Urdu-Controversy

Q What was the Mohammedan Anglo-Oriental school?

Ans: In May 1875 Mohammedan Anglo-Oriental School was opened at Aligarh in U.P. by Sir
Syed Ahmed Khan. It was a positive steps of Sir Syed Ahmed Khan in which he stepped to
provide better future and prosperity to the Muslims. On returning from London in 1875 he
thought that a proper western education with the Muslim education was persistent for the
Muslim youth. He preferred Cambridge pattern of Education. This step of Sir Syed was
appreciated by the British and after two years this school was raised to college level and in 1920
after Sir Syed's death, it was raised to a university.

Q What were the major miss-understanding between the British and Muslims regarding
cooperation?
Ans: There were several miss-understanding between the British and Muslims that British
blamed Muslims for the cause of the revolt. They putted the entire responsibility on Muslims.
Muslims consider British as foreign invaders as they thought they were trying to convert
Muslims to Christianity. Muslims also rejected western education as they said it was not
matching Islamic beliefs.

Q What was the ‘Essay on the causes of Indian revolt’?

26
Ans: Essay on the causes of Indian revolt was a pamphlet written by Sir Syed Ahmad khan in
which he pointed the main reasons of the uprising which include less job opportunities and lack
of representation in government of the country for Indians. He also mentioned about the forcible
conversion of Muslims to Christianity through schools. Lastly, he mentioned about grease
cartridges and poor management of Indian army. Other than these, he also listed other reasons.

Q What was the Tabiyun -ul- kalam?

Ans: Tabyin – ul – kalam was written by Sir Syed Ahmad khan in which he pointed similarities
and differences between Islam and Christianity. Due to the lack of resources, the work could not
be competed but it showed Sir Syed commitment to improving relation between Islam and
Christianity. This book was another effort on the part of Sir Syed Ahmad in academic field t
create a atmosphere of good will between the British and the Muslims.

Q What was the Two-nation theory?

Ans: The Two-Nation theory was developed by Sir Syed Ahmad khan. It was a two-religion
theory concept that influenced to have a separate state for the Muslims in the sub-continent.
According to this theory, the Muslim and Hindus are two different nations from every point of
view religion, culture, language and cannot live together. This theory was developed as Sir Syed
realize that Hindu and Muslim could not be united after the Hindi-Urdu controversy.

Q What was the Thar – ul - Sanadeed?

Ans: In 1847, Sir Syed Ahmad published an Urdu text, listing and describing notable
monuments of Delhi entitled Thar – ul – Sanadeed. His work was so impressive that British
scholars in Delhi invited him to join the Asiatic society and write a second improved version for
translation in to English but unfortunately, the translation was never written.

Q Who was Sir Syed Ahmad khan?

Ans: Sir Syed Ahmed Khan was born in 1817 in Delhi. He came from a wealthy family and his
father gave him high quality education. When he was 18 Sir Syed was skilled in Arabic, Persian,
Mathematics and Medicine. He was also introduced as Sub-continent most able writer. In 1838
his father died so he became a judge in Delhi in 1846. When the war of Independence broke out
in 1857 he was working as Chief Judge in Bijnaur and had saved the life of British women and
children during the fighting. In return for his loyalty the British gave him estate with large income
but he refused.  His Belief that armed uprising against the British was pointless made him
unpopular to many Muslims. He was appointed Chief justice in Muradabad and was later
transferred to Ghazipore. In 1864 he was transferred to Aligarh where he played an important
part in establishing the college. In 1876 he retired from his work to concentrate on running the
college and devoting himself to improve the position of Muslims through education. He died on
27 March 1898.

7 MARKS:

Q Why did Sir Syed Ahmed Khan try to improve the relations between the Muslim and the
British?
27
Ans: The Muslim had gone to slumber. After the war of independence 1857 the Muslim society
had gone to socio- economic, political and religious decline.

According to Sir Syed Ahmed Khan the main reason was the lack of communication which could
not be removed without acquiring modern education introduced by the British.

The war of independence had brought the Muslims to isolation. In every field they were left
alone. Their socio-economic condition was declining. If they wanted to come out of this disaster
they had to acquire the language spoken by the British without which the Muslims could not
clear out their position and could not come close to British and without communicating properly
with the British they could not come out of this disaster.

Q Why did Sir Syed Ahmad found the Aligarh Movement?

Ans: 19th century was the declining period for the Muslims of the sub-continent. Socially,
politically and economically they were lacking behind.

After the failure of War of Independence (1857) the Hindus had taken fall advantage. They
came close to British and whole responsibility of war was put on the shoulders of the Muslims.
The Muslims could do nothing as there was a gap of communication. The Muslim society went
to slumber. They were left behind. They were not getting job because of the competitive exam
system introduced in 1977. Their language Urdu was also in danger (Hindu- Urdu Controversy -
1867). They were not well aware of election system also.

Sir Syed Ahmed Khan wanted to take the Muslims out of this precarious slumber. Western
Education was the only solution. Sir Syed had already started school system at different places
in U.P - Muradabad, Gharipur etc. On returning from England he launched his Aligarh
Movement by founding Mohammadan Anglo Oriental (M.A.O.) School at Aligarh in 1875.

It was very successful and by working on it the Muslim youth got education, courage to initiate
and political awareness. In 1906 All India Muslim League was founded.

Q Why did Sir Syed Ahmad Khan introduced his two nation theory?
Ans: Firstly, the British wanted to have democratic representations of Indians in a government
established through general elections. Sir Syed Ahmed saw that such democratic system of
political representations was not in the interest of Muslim community as they were a minority. Sir
Syed believed that they wouldn't be fairly represented in the government established through
such elections.

Secondly, congress had demanded the distribution of government services should be done on
the basis of merit through competitive exams. Since Muslims lagged behind Hindus in
education, Sir Syed knew that they would not able to complete with them. Therefore he
demanded that distribution of government services should instead be done through a quota
system.

Lastly, in 1867 the Hindus had demand that Hindi should replace Urdu as the next official
language because Urdu was written in Arabic script and was a religious language. Sir Syed

28
opposed this demand vehemently and saw it as an attempt to underline Muslims culturally,
socially and politically. The belief of Sir Syed that congress was working against the interest of
Muslims community led him to develop two nation theory.

Q Why did Sir Syed Ahmad Khan think that education was so important for muslims?
Ans: According to Sir Syed, Muslims had to bring a positive approach to the British and accept
their ways of education. This was the only way to improve the communication between them so
as to improve their relation which was impossible without getting education.

He wanted the Muslims to benefit from the British. Hindus had already taken the advantage and
were gaining western education through which they were able to take up more jobs in civil
service and army. Muslims were left behind in every part.

Lastly, he believed that Muslim need to gain education so as to participate in competitive exam
system. English was the official language and without Muslim getting western education they
cannot learn English and cannot pass test.

Q Why did Sir Syed Ahmad Khan wrote ‘the causes of the Indian Revolt’.
Ans: Firstly, British had put the whole blame of War of Independence on the Muslims. Sir Syed
Ahmad wanted to correct this British View.

Secondly, He wrote to show the main reason for the war of independence that was mostly due
to British not giving job opportunities and hard treatment with the Indians.

Lastly, the Muslims had gone into political, economic slumber. Sir Syed Ahmad want to improve
their condition by improving their relation with the British.

14 MARKS:
Q Was the Attempt for better understanding between the British and the Muslim were the
most important contribution of Sir Syed Ahmad Khan? Give reasons for your answer.
Ans: For the better understanding between the British and the Muslims Sir Syed Ahmed Khan
tried to convince the British that Muslims were not responsible for the mutiny in 1857. He
explained to them 'the causes of the Indian revolt'. The Muslims were as loyal to British as other
nations of India. He also tried to convince the Muslims that the British were "Ahl-e- Kitab" (co
bookers) and the Muslim were equally respectable as other nations. He wrote 'the similarity and
the difference between the Quran and the Bible'. He also wrote 'etiquettes of eating with Ahl-e-
Kitab' also.

To remove the misunderstanding between the Muslim and the British communication was the
only solution. For better communication Sir Syed Ahmed Khan asked the Muslims to acquire the
modern western education. Sir Syed established a series of schools at Muradabad, Ghazipur
and Aligarh. In 1869 Sir Syed Ahmed Khan had gone to England where he studied the pattern
of Oxford and Cambridge education system. On reaching India in 1875 he opened
Mohammadan Anglo Oriental School at Aligarh which was a boarding house school where
English was taught as a subject. This school was upgraded to college level in 1877 and was
29
further upgraded to university level in 1920. Sir Syed also setup Aligarh Institute Gazette and
Scientific Society at Ghazipur where Urdu and English Literatures were translated.

To make them politically aware he asked the Muslims to acquire western education so that they
could come to the level of Hindu and British equally. He defended Urdu at time of ‘Urdu-Hindi-
Controversy’ in 1867. To bring political status he used the word ‘NATION’ for the Muslim-Two-
Nation-Theory in 1867. In 1877 he opposed competitive exam system in government services
as he Muslims were lacking in education. He wanted the jobs for the Muslims as per their ratio
in population. He also asked the Muslims not to join the congress in 1885 as the Muslims were
in minority and the congress would be a Hindu dominant party.

Sir Syed Ahmad Khan did believe in Hindu-Muslim unity, but some actions by the Hindu (Hindu-
Urdu Controversy and democratic government as a govt. Britain) made him change his mind.
He was not sure if they could now live peacefully in a country after British would leave India. For
these reasons he put forward the Two-nation Theory.

Sir Syed Ahmad Khan was of the option that without understanding the British (Christians) the
Muslims could not develop and prosper. He wanted the Muslims to understand ‘Ahl – e – Kitab’.
In first book he explained the similarities between the Quran and the bible and in the second
explained the eating etiquettes with Ahl – e – Kitab the Christians. He also gaved the
explanation of word Nadarath.

In the end I conclude that there is no doubt better understanding between the Muslims and the
British was the important contribution of Sir Syed Ahmad Khan by working on which the Muslims
the Muslim got pride and separate homeland in 1947.

30
 LANGUAGES
7 MARKS:
Q Why have regional language has been promoted by the Pakistan government since 1947?
Ans: They were promoted to keep the regional languages Alive, for the unity and the integrity of
the nation and to create the pride of cultural sense.

The regional languages had an important role in Pakistan Movement, and the creation of
Pakistan. Balochi was less developed before the creation of Pakistan but afterwards special
consideration was given to rise it to the level of regional language.

Promotion of regional languages was also necessary for the development of local culture and
movements with historical background.

The promotion was also necessary for the folk singers and folk artists including the teaching
community so that the people of different regions might not feel depressed that their own
language was ignored.

14 MARKS:
Q How successful was Pakistan in promoting its regional languages? Explain your answer.
Ans: Balochi is the language spoken in the province of Balochistan. It had been an oral
language with very little literature. After the creation of Pakistan the government has taken
considerable steps for its development. Balochistan University and Balochi literary association
were founded. Literature and magazines were published. The famous are Nan Kissan and
Olissis. Balochi poets and writers have also done meritorious jobs. Radio Pakistan (Quetta) and
Pakistan T.V had broadcasted their regular programs in Balochi language. Academic literature
and other books have been written in Balochi language.

Punjabi is the regional language, widely spoken in Punjab and all over Pakistan the Government
of Pakistan has taken considerable steps to promote it academic subject books, novels, stories
and other literary books, written in this language. Even the Holy Quran has been translated in
Punjabi. The authors writers like Ahmed Rahi, Munir Naizi, Ustaad Daman have played key role
in the development of this language. Heer Ranjha, Sassi Punnu, Sohni Mahiwal, Mirza Sahiban
etc, are the famous romantic stories, Haq Bahu, Baba Bullay Shah etc are the famous Sufi
Saints and Alam Lohar, Arif Lohar etc are famous singers of Punjabi language.

Pushto is the language spoken in Khyber Pakhtoon Khwa (formally N.W.F.P.). After the creation
of Pakistan its development was taken into consideration. In 1954 Pushto Academy was

31
founded where Pushto is taught up to master levels. The language itself is one of the oldest
language of Pakistan. The mystic poetic collection of Khushal Khan Khattak and Rehman Baba
have been translated into different languages. Radio, T.V, newspapers, magazines, poets,
writers and singers have played key role in its development the efforts of Pathani Khan cannot
be forgotten. Rahim Shah is present day famous singer of this language

Sindhi is one of the oldest languages of Pakistan spoken in Sindh. After the creation of Pakistan
the government had taken keen interest in its development. Sindhi Literary Society was founded
1948. In 1954 Bazam-e- Talib-Maula was also setup at Hala. Academic and other books have
been translated into Sindhi, the Holy Quran has also been translated into Sindhi Sindhi is taught
up to Masters Level. Radio, T.V, have also broadcasted their programs in Sindhi language.
Newspapers and magazines were also published. Shah Abdul Lateef Bhittai is one of the
famous Sufi poets of Sindh. Shah Jo Risalo is one of his famous work. Mai Bhagi, Allan Faqir,
Abida Parveen etc are the famous singers

In the end I conclude that Pakistan had took keen steps to promote the regional languages by
building universities, though radio and T.V. thus, I conclude that Pakistan had been very
successful in promoting regional languages.

4 MARKS:

URDU
Q How has Pakistani government promoted the development of Urdu since 1947?
Ans: Urdu was given more priority. In 1948, Urdu Development Authority and Urdu Dictionary
Board were setup. In 1954 Urdu Academy was founded. Same year Karachi University was
founded where Molvi Abdul Haq 'Baba-e- Urdu' (he had compiled the first Urdu dictionary) was
appointed as the head of Urdu Department. In 1964 he set up Urdu Science College at NIPA in
Gulshan-e-lqbal which was upgraded to Federal Urdu University in 2002. Urdu course and
literacy books were printed. Literature of different books were translated into Urdu. Radio, TV,
newspaper, magazine, journal, poets, singers, writers etc have played key role in development
of Urdu language

Q Why did Pakistan choose Urdu as a National Language.

Ans: Urdu was understood and spoken by all, it was the unifying language, it was rich in
literature, and it had been the language of Pakistan Movement. Urdu has been of immense
importance for the last 300 years.

Urdu was chosen as the national language because of its popularity. In East Pakistan Bengali
was spoken in West Pakistan there were four languages. All five languages were entirely
different of one another. Urdu was the only spoken and understood language in whole East and
West in Pakistan Movement.

32
Another reason was that this language was rich in literature. GhAlib, Mir Taqi Mir, Mir Dard,
Zoaq, HAli, Deputy Nazir Ahmed, Allama lqbal etc had added to this language. Sir Syed Ahmed
Khan had also written majority of his works in Urdu language.

BALOCHI
Q How has the Pakistani government promoted the development of Balochi since 1947.
Ans: Balochi is the language spoken in the province of Balochistan. It had been an oral
language with very little literature. After the creation of Pakistan the government has taken
considerable steps for its development. Balochistan University and Balochi literary association
were founded. Literature and magazines were published. The famous are Nan Kissan and
Olissis. Balochi poets and writers have also done meritorious jobs. Radio Pakistan (Quetta) and
Pakistan T.V had broadcasted their regular programs in Balochi language. Academic literature
and other books have been written in Balochi language.

PUNJABI
Q How has Pakistan government promoted the development of Punjabi?
Ans: Punjabi is the regional language, widely spoken in Punjab and all over Pakistan the
Government of Pakistan has taken considerable steps to promote it academic subject books,
novels, stories and other literary books, written in this language. Even the Holy Quran has been
translated in Punjabi. The authors writers like Ahmed Rahi, Munir Naizi, Ustaad Daman have
played key role in the development of this language. Heer Ranjha, Sassi Punnu, Sohni Mahiwal,
Mirza Sahiban etc, are the famous romantic stories, Haq Bahu, Baba Bullay Shah etc are the
famous Sufi Saints and Alam Lohar, Arif Lohar etc are famous singers of Punjabi language.

PUSHTO
Q How has Pakistan government promoted the development of Punjabi?
Ans: Pushto is the language spoken in Khyber Pakhtoon Khwa (formally N.W.F.P.). After the
creation of Pakistan its development was taken into consideration. In 1954 Pushto Academy
was founded where Pushto is taught up to master levels. The language itself is one of the oldest
language of Pakistan. The mystic poetic collection of Khushal Khan Khattak and Rehman Baba
have been translated into different languages. Radio, T.V, newspapers, magazines, poets,
writers and singers have played key role in its development the efforts of Pathani Khan cannot
be forgotten. Rahim Shah is present day famous singer of this language.

SINDHI
Q How has Pakistan promoted the development of Sindhi since 1947?
Ans: Sindhi is one of the oldest languages of Pakistan spoken in Sindh. After the creation of
Pakistan the government had taken keen interest in its development. Sindhi Literary Society

33
was founded 1948. In 1954 Bazam-e- Talib-Maula was also setup at Hala. Academic and other
books have been translated into Sindhi, the Holy Quran has also been translated into Sindhi
Sindhi is taught up to Masters Level. Radio, T.V, have also broadcasted their programs in
Sindhi language. Newspapers and magazines were also published. Shah Abdul Lateef Bhittai is
one of the famous Sufi poets of Sindh. Shah Jo Risalo is one of his famous work. Mai Bhagi,
Allan Faqir, Abida Parveen etc are the famous singers.

34
SECTION 2:
EMERGENCE
OF
PAKISTAN

35
 DEVELOPMENT OF
PAKISTAN MOVEMENT IN
EARLY 20 CENTUARY
th

(1885 – 1927)

PARTITON OF BENGAL (1905) AND ITS

REVERSAL (1911)
4 MARKS:

Q What was the Indian National Congress (1885)?

Ans: The INC was the first national movement of a political kind in India with the initial aim of
getting more Indians involved in the governance of the country. Later on, its purpose upgraded
to complete independence. And, post-independence, it emerged as a major political party in the
country. For the first session, Hume obtained permission from the then Viceroy of India Lord
Dufferin. It was initially supposed to be held in Poona but was moved to Bombay due to the
outbreak of cholera in Poona. In 1883, Hume had written an open letter to Calcutta University
graduates expressing his idea of having a body for educated Indians to demand more share in
the government and also for a platform by which dialogue could be initiated and sustained
between educated Indians and the British government. The first session was attended by 72
delegates from all the Indian provinces. There were 54 Hindus, 2 Muslims and the rest were
Jain and Parsi members. The president of the first session was Womesh Chandra Bonnerjee.
Prominent attendees of the maiden session were Dadabhai Naoroji, Dinshaw Wacha, William
Wedderburn, Pherozeshah Mehta, etc. In its early years, the INC was a moderate organisation
and limited its means to constitutional methods and dialogue. Its demands were limited to
including more Indians in the civil service and the armed forces. It never talked of
independence. After a few years, the party became more radical in its demands and approach.
By 1905, there was a clear rift in the party which was now divided between old moderates and
the newer group, the extremists – who were so called because of their radical methodologies.
The 1905 partition of Bengal saw the party transforming into a mass movement.

36
Q Who was Allan Octavian Hume?
Ans: Allan Octavian Hume worked for the Imperial Civil Service, which was later renamed the
Indian Civil Service. Hume founded the Indian National Congress. He was also an ornithologist,
and he is known as the "Father of Indian Ornithology." A.O Hume arrived in India in 1849 and
joined the Bengal Civil Service at Etawah in the North-Western Provinces, now Uttar
Pradesh,the following year. He recognized the Indian Rebellion of 1857 as a result of
misgovernance as an administrator in Etawah, and he worked hard to improve the life of the
common people. Etawah was one of the first districts to be returned to normalcy, and over the
next few years, Hume's reforms made the district a model of progress. Hume progressed
through the Indian Civil Service, but, like his father, a radical member of parliament, he was
outspoken in his criticism of British policies in India. Under Lord Mayo's leadership, he advanced
to the position of secretary of the Department of Revenue, Agriculture, and Commerce in 1871.
In 1879, however, his criticism of Lord Lytton resulted in his dismissal from the Secretariat.

Q Who is Lord Dufferin?

Ans: Lord Dufferin served as Governor General of India and Viceroy from 1884 to 1888. During
his tenure, the Third Burmese war led to annexation of whole of Burma and Burmese ruler was
exiled to India. In 1885, AO Hume laid the foundation of Indian National Congress. In 1885, the
Panjdeh Incident happened in which the Russian forces seized Afghan territory south of Amu
Darya around site of Panjdeh {now located in Turkmenistan}. This created a diplomatic crisis
between Russia and Great Britain.

Q What was the partition of Bengal?

Ans: It was suggested by Lord Curzon in 1903 that Bengal should be divided into east Bengal
and west Bengal because it was a huge province and difficult to govern. Thus, it was partitioned
in 1905. Hindus saw it as a divide and rule policy of British to break their majority. Muslim saw it
as a positive step as it will evade Hindus domination in Bengal.

Q What were the terms of partition of Bengal?

Ans: East Bengal & Assam: Dhaka as its capital. The eastern province would include Assam
and three districts previously considered to be a part of West Bengal, Dhaka, Chittagong and
Mymensingh. It had a population of 31million people out of which 18 million were Muslims. West
Bengal: Calcutta its capital. It had a population of 54million out of which 45million were Hindus

Q What was the Swadeshi Movement?

Ans: In 1906 as an economic device to compel the British government to reverse the partition of
Bengal the ‘anti-partition elements’ started the Swadeshi movement which aimed at boycotting
British products using homemade goods. The Hindu landlords also tried to bring the Muslims
tenants into the Swadeshi culture. This movement also became a serious cause of Hindu-
Muslim conflicts in Bengal, Feroz shah Meetha (a Parsi) than president of all India national
congress had led this movement.

Q What was the reaction of Muslims regarding partition of Bengal?

37
Ans: The Muslims greatly welcomed the partition and felt jubilant over it because in the newly
created East province, they were in majority. On 22nd October 1905 a large number of Muslims
met at Dhaka & appreciated thanks giving prayers to celebrate the establishment of the new
province. Now at last the Muslims had true recognition – a province in which they were in the
majority. This would enable millions of Muslims to escape from the oppression of Hindu rule.

Q What was the reaction of Hindus regarding partition of Bengal?

Ans: The Hindus on the other hand reacted violently to the partition because they had been
holding a privilege position in the socio-economic life of Bengal till the partition took place. They
now believed that they lose their status & declared that the partition was an attempt to weaken
& divide Bengal and called it “Divide and rule” policy of British. The Hindus greatly opposed this
partition & started a movement generally known as “Swadeshi Movement” in which they
boycotted all English goods. Many Hindus observed the partition day as the day of National
mourning. Even the Indian national congress supported the Hindus. Mass protest started and
situation grew even worse that assassination attemts were made on future viceroy of india

Q What was the British reaction to Hindu protest?

Ans: The British took immediate steps to deal with the Hindu protest. Restrictions were placed
on newspapers and public meetings. Between 1906 and 1908 editors were prosecuted and
some were imprisoned. In 1908, press act was gave the government a even greater control over
newspapers. Tilak was arrested in June 1908 and he was sentenced to six year imprisonment.
Other radical leaders left India to avoid arrest. Soon local prisons were filled with those the
British considered to be “revolutionaries”. Sometimes suspects were simply deported – without
being charged or put on trial.

Q What was the Press Act of 1908?

Ans: The Press Act of 1908 was legislation promulgated in British India imposing strict
censorship on all kinds of publications. The measure was brought into effect to curtail the
influence of Indian vernacular and English language in promoting support for what was
considered radical Indian nationalism. This act gave the British rights to imprison and execute
anyone who writes radical articles in the newspapers.

Q What was the reversal of partition of Bengal (1911)?

Ans: In 1911, Lord Harding announced the reversal of partition of Bengal. This was because of
the pressure put by the Hindus through Swadeshi movement and other protest. British were
unable to protect the Muslims interests due to Hindu protests. Muslims were annoyed as
through this they had lost their separate area where they were in majority and free from Hindu
majority domination.

Q What was the reaction of Muslims on the reversal of partition of Bengal?

Ans: The reversal of the partition was bitterly opposed by the Muslims, but the British were not
to be moved. The Muslims now realized just how vital it was that the Muslim league prospered if
Muslim were to receive fair treatment in India. They now had lost all their hopes & created
feeling of distrust among the Muslims about British. The deep disappointment caused by
annulment of the Partition, however indirectly served to quicken the growth of the Muslim

38
politics. They became politically more conscious. They came to the decision that they could not
trust the British Government for the protection of their rights. Muslims lost faith in British to allow
them any real power. Muslims also realized that Minto-Morley reforms did not provide Indians
any genuine voice, which resulted as Poor relations between British and Muslims.

Q Who was Lord Harding?

Ans: Lord Harding was the governor general of India when WW1 Happened. He Shifted the
Capital from Calcutta to Delhi in 1911. He Held Delhi durbar for the coronation of Kind George V
in 1911 and announced the shift of the capital. He was also the one who annulled the partition
of Bengal in 1911.

7 MARKS:
Q Why was Bengal partitioned?
Ans: Bengal was partitioned in 1905 to solve administrative problems, break Hindu unity and
favor Muslims.

Firstly, Bengal was the largest province of India covering 189,000 sq. miles. It had a population
of 85 million which as 10 times greater than Britain. So it was difficult for the British to govern
suck a large area as a single province and was causing administrative problems. Therefore, it
was portioned to solve administrative problems.

Secondly, Hindu capitalist were strong in Bengal and exploited Muslims peasants. Therefore,
Bengal was partitioned to follow the policy of divide and rule so that Hindu unity could be broken
and Hindu extremist could be controlled.

Lastly, Muslims peasants were exploited by Hindu capitalists and were reduced to poverty and
due to the role played by Sir Syed Ahmad khan to remove conflicts between Muslims and
British. British realized that they had been victimized since 1857 and therefore they partitioned
Bengal to give relaxation to Muslims.

Q Why was the partition of Bengal reversed?

Ans: Bengal partition was reversed due to Swadeshi movement, Congress protest and outbreak
of terrorist activities.

Firstly, Hindus thought it was an attempt by British to break their unity and follow divide and rule
policy. Therefore, Congress opposed it by holding rallies and meetings to put pressure on
British. Therefore, it was reversed to win the support of Hindus.

Secondly, Hindus also started Swadeshi movement in response which brought great economic
loss to the British. They boycotted British goods and schools, and put them on fire. Therefore, to
regain their economic status, partition was reversed.

39
Lastly, there was also an outbreak of terrorist activities and violence. An assassination attempt
was also made on Lord Minto, future viceroy of India. Also Lord Curzon, the originator of the
idea was no longer the viceroy so it was easier for the British to reverse it.

14 MARKS:

Q Was the Bengal partitioned due to geographical factor? Do you agree or disagree? Give
reasons for your answer.
Ans: Bengal was the largest province of India covering 189,000 sq. miles. It had a population of
85 million which as 10 times greater than Britain. So it was difficult for the British to govern suck
a large area as a single province and was causing administrative problems. Therefore, it was
portioned to solve administrative problems.

However there were other reason too like Hindu capitalist were strong in Bengal and exploited
Muslims peasants. Therefore, Bengal was partitioned to follow the policy of divide and rule so
that Hindu unity could be broken and Hindu extremist could be controlled.

Secondly, Muslims peasants were exploited by Hindu capitalists and were reduced to poverty
and due to the role played by Sir Syed Ahmad khan to remove conflicts between Muslims and
British. British realized that they had been victimized since 1857 and therefore they partitioned
Bengal to give relaxation to Muslims.

Thirdly, there was an economic disparity between east Bengal and west Bengal. West Bengal
was far more developed than east Bengal. East Bengal was an agriculture area whereas west
Bengal was an industrial area. All the raw materials were sent to west Bengal and it was seen
that west Bengal was getting developed on the cost of west Bengal. Therefore, British divided
Bengal so that economy of west Bengal could flourish independently.

Fourthly, it was also done to counter growing the influence of the congress ad maintain law and
order situation. Due to the constant conspiracies of ‘Arya Samaj’ against Muslims and British,
Bengal as becoming ungovernable. There was a series of break of violence and it was difficult
to maintain law and order situation. Therefore to main law and order situation Bengal was
partitioned.

In the end, I conclude that Bengal was partitioned manly because of large province as it was
difficult to govern and control as a single province.

Q Partition or reversal. Were the reasons why Bengal was partitioned in 1905 more important
than those causing its reversal in 1911? Explain your answer.
Ans: Bengal was partitioned as Bengal was the largest province of India covering 189,000 sq.
miles. It had a population of 85 million which as 10 times greater than Britain. So it was difficult
for the British to govern suck a large area as a single province and was causing administrative
problems. Therefore, it was portioned to solve administrative problems.

40
Secondly, Hindu capitalist were strong in Bengal and exploited Muslims peasants. Therefore,
Bengal was partitioned to follow the policy of divide and rule so that Hindu unity could be broken
and Hindu extremist could be controlled.

Thirdly, there was an economic disparity between east Bengal and west Bengal. West Bengal
was far more developed than east Bengal. East Bengal was an agriculture area whereas west
Bengal was an industrial area. All the raw materials were sent to west Bengal and it was seen
that west Bengal was getting developed on the cost of west Bengal. Therefore, British divided
Bengal so that economy of west Bengal could flourish independently.

The reasons for the reversal of partition were that Hindus thought it was an attempt by British to
break their unity and follow divide and rule policy. Therefore, Congress opposed it by holding
rallies and meetings to put pressure on British. Therefore, it was reversed to win the support of
Hindus.

Secondly, Hindus also started Swadeshi movement in response which brought great economic
loss to the British. They boycotted British goods and schools, and put them on fire. Therefore, to
regain their economic status, partition was reversed.

In the end I conclude that the reasons for the partition of Bengal were more important as this
would help British given a province much better and also this helped the muslims to get safe
from Hindu domination.

Q How successful was partition of Bengal? Explain your answer.

Ans: After the partition of Bengal, it became easy to govern it as now it was divided into 2
provinces each having a majority so now British can govern it as liked by the people living in
each province. It was also easy for the British to control any break of law and order situation and
control it as soon as possible.

Secondly, as British partitioned Bengal, Muslims got their separate province where they lived as
a majority. They got their separate identification which was liked by the Muslims and this
improved the relations between British and Muslims. British also saved them from Hindu
capitalist who exploited Muslims peasants and reduced them to poetry.

Thirdly, through partition, East Bengal got independence in economy as before west Bengal
was developing on the cost of east Bengal and east Bengal as left far behind. This was due to it
being an agriculture country and all the raw materials transported to west Bengal. Now it got
independent and could flourish independently.

However, there were some failures too like after the partition of Bengal, Hindu – British relation
worsened and they objected on the partition. They held mass demonstrations and protests to
pressurize the British. The got so insane that assassination attempts started on British like on
the future viceroy of British Lord Minto

Secondly, Hindus started Swadeshi movement in which they boycotted births goods. They
refused to buy British goods and schools and put them on fire. This did a lot of economic loss o

41
British and their economic status was hit badly and their sales went down. Handmade goods
were recommended and used widely.

In the end I conclude that the partition of Bengal was a failure as due to it, mass protest started
and demonstrations started. Even assassination attempts were made and also British schools
and goods were boycotted hitting their economic image.

SIMLA DEPUTITION (1906)

4 MARKS:
Q What was Simla Deputation?
Ans: It was a delegation of Muslims under Aga khan who met lord Minto to make some
requests. These included Muslims to have own representatives elected by Muslims voters and
Muslims to have a higher percentage of seats in council than heir percentage of population.
Minto agreed t these proposals which showed British were now prepared to work with or even
make concessions for Muslims.

7 MARKS:
Q Why did Simla Deputation meet Lord Minto?
Ans: Muslims me lord Minto in 1906 in order to demand separate electorates, retain Bengal
partition and show loyalty to British.

Firstly, Muslims realized that they would never be able to win any election mainly due to Hindu
majority. Therefore, Simla deputation met lord Minto to demand spate electorates and 1/3 of the
separate electorates.

Secondly, Muslims saw the mass rallies and strikes by Hindus which they feared might lead to
the reversal of Bengal partition. This partition had given Muslims separate recognization and
they did want it to be reversed. They also knew it they could not hold that much big protest to
retain the partition therefore, they met Lord Minto to share their views.

Lastly, due to the efforts of the sir Syed Ahmad khan, Muslims realize that improved relations
with British is the only thing that could guarantee their survival in India. Therefore, they met lord
Minto in 1906 to show their loyalty to the British in a situation when British Hindu relation had
been deterioted.

Q Why was Simla Deputation an important turning point for Muslims?

Ans: Simla Deputation was important as it showed improved Muslim – British relations, and
emphasized success of two nation theory.

42
Firstly, British acceptance at Simla Deputation of Muslims demands showed that attempts made
by Sir Syed Ahmad khan to restore Muslim – British relations had been a success. British were
now ready to make concessions for Muslims.

Secondly, it also showed that Muslim community had decided to ensure a secure place in
constitution by its own methods. Hindu Muslim rivalry that existed in day to day life now also
existed in constitution as well.

Lastly, Deputation marked the relevance of two nation theory of sir Syed. It showed that
Muslims were separate community from Hindus. From this, it was only short step away from to
breaking from congress and establishing Muslims league in 1906 to work for Muslim interest
only.

ALL INDIA MUSLIM LEAGUE (1906)

4 MARKS:
Q What was the All India Muslims League?
Ans: The All-India Muslim League (AIML) was a political party established in Dhaka in 1906
when some well-known Muslim politicians met the Viceroy of British India, Lord Minto, with the
goal of securing Muslim interests on the Indian subcontinent.

Q Who was Viqar-ul-Mulk?

Ans: Nawab Viqar-ul-Mulk was born on 24 March 1841, in Meerut. He was conferred the title of
Nawab Viqar-ul-Mulk on 9 December 1890.He also remained a member of Scientific Society
since 1866. He was also known for his involvement in Aligarh Movement. It was his magnetizing
personality which had induced Quaid-e-Azam to join the All India Muslim League.

14 MARKS:
Q Why was All India Muslim League Formed?
Q Was the need for political party most important reason for the formation of Muslim
league? Explain our answer.
Ans: Muslim league was formed in 1906 because congress was Hindu dominated, success at
Simla deputation, to unite Muslims, retain Bengal partition and improve relation with British.

Congress was formed in 1885 by British to hear views of Indian but with the passage of tie
Muslims realized it was working for Hindus only as it demanded joint electorates and Hindi as
official language of India. Therefore, Muslim realized their own political party, to advance Muslim
rights, protect Urdu and counter growing influence of the congress.

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The success at Simla deputation also motivated Muslims to start their own political party. They
realized that British were now ready to work and even make concessions for Muslims.
Therefore, they started their own political party as they believed British would support it.

Muslims of India were very behind other communities because of their disunity and ignorance of
British education. Therefore, some top leaders realized that Muslims needed a political platform
to unite against all other communities of India. However, it also believed that without their
support of other communities. Muslims could not achieve their rights so it was also formed to
bring other communities closer to each other.

A main purpose of forming league was to retain Bengal partition. Muslim saw the mass rallies
and strikes which they feared might lead to the reversal of Bengal partition. This partition had
given Muslims a separate reorganization and they did not want it to be reversed. Therefore,
Muslim league was not only formed to represent Muslim demands but also to put pressure on
government to retain partition.

Due to the efforts of sir Syed ahmad khan, Muslims realized good relations with the British is the
only way of their survival in India and protection from Hindu extremist groups like “Arya Samaj”
who demanded that Muslims should be forcibly converted to Hinduism. Therefore, Muslim
league was formed to improve relations with British.

Thus I conclude that Muslim league was mainly formed to counter anti-Muslim demands of
congress and gain protection for Muslim minorities.

MORLEY MINTO REFORMS (1909)

4 MARKS:

Q What were the Morley Minto Reforms?

Ans: It was passed in 1909 in British parliament. A number of reforms were introduced like
separate electorates were given to Muslims and no. of seats in both provincial and executive
council were increased for Indians. Congress opposed it as it fell separate electorates for
Muslims was undemocratic and council could just advise but had no real powers.

Q What were the Terms of Morley Minto reforms?

Ans: Indian Council Act of 1909 popularly known as Morley-Minto Reforms was introduced to
create more partnership with moderate Indians. The imperial council increased to 60 non-official
members. The central executive council also raised by 60 seats. They could discuss the
important matters and advice on important matters including budget. Larger provinces were
raised by 50 seats and smaller provinces by 30 seats with direct elections for provincial
legislative councils. Muslims were given separate electorate. The decisions were in the hands of
the British. The reforms were well mentioned but were not appreciable for many Indians they did
not go nearly far enough.

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Q What is meant by the Separate electorates?
Ans: Separate Electorates are that type of elections in which minorities select their own
representatives separately, as opposed to Joint Electorates where people are selected
collectively. When minorities fear that they would not get representation in state affairs and
government then they demand separate electorates. Same was the case with the Indian
Muslims. They were very large in number, but in case of combined elections they would not get
due representation. When the British implemented the system of democracy in India in order to
strength their rule, and to involve local people in government, the Muslims demanded separate
electorates .These were not imposed by British, however were granted on the request of the
Muslims.
OR
Separate electorates are usually demanded by minorities who feel it would otherwise be difficult
for them to get fair representation in government. For example, separate electorate for Muslims
means that Muslims will choose their separate leader by separate elections for Muslims.

Q What is meant by join electorates?

Ans: A joint electorate is one where the entire voting population of a country or region is part of
a single electorate, and the entire electorate votes for the candidates who contest in the
elections.

7 MARKS:
Q Why were Morley Minto reforms introduced?
Ans: Morley Minto Reforms were introduced in 1909 to solve communal tensions, work on a
plan of 10 years and to enlarge councils by adding Indians.

Morley Minto reforms were introduced as British were sick of the tensions between Muslims and
the Hindus. They wanted to resolve communal tensions between Muslims and Hindus. They
started these reforms so that they could resolve their issues politically without violence in India.

Secondly, British government wanted to work on a plan of reforms in 10 years so that Indians
could be ruled by making constitution of India with the help of all parties of India. They wanted to
give power to Indians step by step therefore they planned to do it every 10 years.

Lastly, they wanted to enlarge councils by adding Indians in law making and demand of Indians
and could resolve their issues. The government wanted to hear the views of Indians and wanted
to convey their message to them.

Q Why did the congress oppose Morley Minto Reforms?

Ans: Congress opposed Morley Minto reforms because they wanted self-rule, join electorates
and negate Muslim rights

Firstly, British intended Indians could voice their opinion in councils but congress wanted more
responsibility, which government was not prepared to give. This annoyed them who were
looking for self-rule. Hence, opposed the reforms.

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Secondly, British also accepted the rights of the Muslims for separate electorates which
annoyed Hindus as they saw it as a concession too far. They wanted join electorates as they
were in majority and would win every election

Lastly, Hindus were well aware of the power of the Muslims after separate electorates and
winning future elections. Hindus also resented high position of Muslims despite their minority.
They wanted to negate Muslim rights and wished that they should not even have few high posts.

FIRST WORLD WAR AND INDIA

(1914-1918)
4 MARKS:
Q What were the differing views of the Indians during WW1?
Ans: Some Indians agreed to provide unconditional support for British against turkey, Germany
and Indians political parties including congress and league also supported British as they
believed that they would gain more concessional constitution reforms and may have self-rule
when viceroy made a declaration that Indians would have majority in legislative council and half
of members in viceroy executive council would be Indians. However, on the other hand, some
extremist Indians find the need of British as their opportunity and started revolutionary activities
to drive out British from India.

7 MARKS:
Q Why British- Muslims relations deterioted before and during the First World War?
Ans: The reasons for deterioration between the both communities were because of reversal of
partition of Bengal, Morley Minto reforms did not provide real power and Balkan wars.

Firstly, the British partitioned Bengal in 1905 which provided a separate place for the Muslims
where they could live separately and in majority. They also got safe from Hindu domination and
got separate recognizaion but in 1911, due to the opposition from Hindus, British gaved up and
reversed the partition due to which Muslim reorganization got stolen and they again got in
minority.

Secondly, Muslims realized that Morley Minto reforms were useless and they did not provide
any genuine voice to Indians. It means that Indians did not get any real powers thus they
rejected these reforms. Thus, despite the efforts of Sir Syed Ahmad khan, Muslims lost hope
that British would provide them with real powers.

Lastly, British supported the Balkan wars against turkey. As Turkey was the major Islamic state
in Europe and had high position in the eyes of Muslims, thus they could not see British fighting
against their brothers thus, this led to the relations being strained.

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 LUCKNOW PACT (1916)
4 MARKS:
Q What was Lucknow Pact?
Ans: It was a treaty of corporation signed between Hindus and Muslims in 1916. Congress
agreed concession with Muslim league. Hindus for the first time agreed that Muslims had a right
of separate electorates and 1/3 seats in councils. Both wanted more seats in council and
protection from minorities was agreed. Self-rule seemed a possibility and Muslim league
realized that it need to work with congress to gain Muslim rights.

Q What had happened at Lucknow in 1916?

Ans: In December 1916, a Cooperation Pact between the Congress and All India Muslim
League was signed at Lucknow. The signers were Mr. Jinnah of Muslim League and Mr.
Mahajan, then President of the Congress. It was the first joint agreement. The Congress agreed
to concessions with the Muslim League like 'separate electorate and 1/3 seats in 'councils'. Both
the parties wanted more seats in councils, protection of minorities, more autonomy to provinces
and the proposals to be binding with the British. The 'Home Rule Government' was to be
seemed possible. The Muslim League also realized to the need to work with Congress.

Q How did British deal with the growing demands for self-government?
Ans: The British simply could not ignore the growing demand for self-government. Even during
the war agitation continued. The unity of the Muslim League and Congress could not be
dismissed. They had to respond to the Lucknow Pact. However, it was very difficult for British
politicians, including the Prime Minister Lloyd George, to change their mind and even begin to
think about letting go of India. Slowly, as the war proceeded, the British came round to the view
that India would have to be given a measure of self-government. The American President
Woodrow Wilson, Britain's wartime ally from 1917, was insisting that once the war was over
nations should run their own affairs. He called this self-determination. It was, he said, to be an
important principle after the war to help to ensure that there would be no more wars.
Eventually, in 1917, the British House of Commons was told of the government intention of
giving Indians a much greater say in their government.

SOURCE A: BRITAIN PROMISED INDIANS A SHARE INGOVERNMENT

“The policy of His Majesty's Government, with which the government of India are in complete
accord, is that of the increasing association of Indians in every branch of the administration and
the gradual development of self-governing institutions with a view to the progressive realization
of responsible government in India, as an integral part of the British Empire.”
E. S. Montagu M.P., Secretary of State for India, House of Commons, 20 August 1917

However, the announcement went on to emphasize that the process would be gradual and that
the pace of change would be decided entirely by the British. Not surprisingly Indian nationalists
were not satisfied-they feared the British would use delaying tactics.

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7 MARKS:
Q Why was Lucknow Pact Signed?
Ans: Lucknow pact was signed in 1916 due to Jinnah persuasion, to improve cooperation
between Hindus and Muslims and Balkan wars.

Firstly, Jinnah played a vital role in the signing of Lucknow pact. He had joined league in 19133
and believed in Hindu – Muslim unity. Therefore, he urged both parties to meet at Lucknow and
sign Lucknow pact to cooperate with each other.

Secondly, in 1911, the Bengal partition was reversed which was an anti-Muslim step and by
1912, Balkan wars had begun where British fought against turkey and it was taken as another
anti-Muslim step by British which brought them closer to congress and they realized that they
needed to cooperate with Hindus to ensure that their views was heard.

Lastly, British could not grant power to Indians according to their promise till 1914, which
brought congress and league closer. In this situation, top leaders like Jinnah and gokle from
congress played important role. They realized cooperation is the only thing to get British agree
to self-rule and Hindus agreed to separate electorates for Muslims.

Q Why was Lucknow Pact important?

Ans: Lucknow pact was important as it was the first time Hindus and Muslims made a joint
demand and Hindus agreed that degree if partition would be necessary.

Firstly, it was the first time Hindus and Muslims had made a joint demand since both of them
realized that both needed to work together to gain their rights . Hindus for the first time agreed if
separate electorates for the Muslims.

Secondly, it marked high watermark for Hindus Muslim unity. Though it was only short lived of 8
years until Khilafat movement. For sometimes, cooperation and prosperity emerged between
the two and Muslim riots were stopped.

Lastly, it also marked the first acceptance by congress that the decree of partition would be
necessary fir self-governing India which brought Muslim league and congress onto the same
page. It was also greatest success of Jinnah as he tried his level best to bring both parties
together.

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 MONTAGUE-CHELMSFORD REFORMS
(1919)
4 MARKS:
Q What was the Montague-Chelmsford reforms?
Ans: It was passed in 1919. It proposed that Indians would be given 2% voting rights and
diarchy was introduced in which some powers like forest, health were given to Indians.
However, some were retained by British like police. The Council of princes was also setup.
Indians rejected it as they hoped for greater concessions as they had helped British in World
War 1.

Q Who was Edvin Montague?

Ans: At that time, Edwin Montague was the Secretary of State for India. In his famous August
Declaration presented before the House of Commons on 20th August 1917, Montague said that
in order to satisfy the local demands, his government was interested in giving more
representation to the natives in India.

Q Who was Lord Chelmsford?

Ans: Lord Chelmsford was sent to India as the new Governor General. He stayed for six months
and held numerous meetings with different government and non-governmental people. Edwin
Montague in collaboration with Lord Chelmsford collected data and made a report about
constitutional reforms in 1918. The report was discussed in the House of Common and later it
was approved by the parliament. The Bill was introduced in India in 1919 and became Act of
1919. This Act, commonly known as Montague-Chelmsford Reforms.

Q What was the Diarchy System?

Ans: Diarchy was introduced as a constitutional reform by Edwin Samuel Montagu (secretary of
state for India, 1917–22) and Lord Chelmsford (viceroy of India, 1916–21). According to Diarchy
the various fields or subjects of administration were divided between the British councilors and
the Indian ministers, being named reserved and transferred subjects, respectively. The reserved
subjects came under the heading of law and order and included justice, police, land revenue,
and irrigation. The transferred subjects (i.e., those under the control of Indian ministers)
included local self-government, education, public health, public works, and agriculture, forests,
and fisheries. The system ended with the introduction of provincial autonomy in 1935.
OR
Diarchy means a government by two authorities. In India, it was started in the government of
India act 1919 on a provincial level. The reserved subjects such as defence were most
important and were controlled by Provincial Governors and their Executive councils and the
transferred subjects were less important such as forests and were controlled by Indian
Ministers. Diarchy was dropped at the provincial level and brought at the central level in the
Gov. of India act 1935.

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7 MARKS:
Q Why were Montague-Chelmsford reforms introduced?
Ans: Montague-Chelmsford reforms were introduced in 1919 to follow the policy of reforms, to
announce post war concessions and favor Indians.

Firstly, it was issued as British were following the policy to introduce reforms every 10 years and
it had been tie since they introduced Morley Minto reforms in 1909. Therefore, they had to
announce new reforms according to their policy in 1919.

Secondly, Indians had supported British in World War 1 and British had promised greater
concessions in exchange of their support. Therefore, they wanted to repay them by introducing
post way concessions.

Lastly, Indians had been demanding self-rule since 1916 and the join pressure of Muslims and
Hindus by Lucknow had pressurize British. Therefore, they wanted to get them support of
Indians and favor them by giving them restricted self-rule. Hence, they issued the reforms to
announce diarchy.

Q Why did Indians rejected Montague-Chelmsford reforms?

Ans: Indians rejected the Montague-Chelmsford reforms of 1919 because they were
disappointed and only minimal powers were given to them.

Firstly, British introduced diarchy under these reforms in which they retained important powers
like police and finance while transferred subjects only minimal powers to Indians like health and
power. Also viceroy was given the power to introduce any law. Therefore they rejected it
because they needed more power.

Secondly, Indians had supported British in the WW1 and in which they had lost 1000s of men
and thus hoped for better concessions from British. The reforms of 1919 disappointed them and
congress rejected the reforms by declaring them “inadequate, unsatisfactory and disappointing”

Lastly, as Muslims had been given separate electorates by British as they were minority. Other
minorities like Sikhs too began demanding separate electorates and rejected the reforms.

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