Ch-2

India In Eighteenth Century

1.Long Question & Answer
Q 1. Give an account of the political situation of India in the eighteenth
century during the period of Later Mughals.

Ans. In the 18th century, India faced extreme disunity after the decline
of the Mughal Empire. With no central authority, European trading
companies began meddling in Indian politics, taking advantage of
prevailing chaos. Indian rulers, oblivious to global developments,
became pawns in the Europeans' quest for power. This manipulation
paved the way for British conquest, starting long before the Marathas'
defeat at Panipat. Eventually, the British gained control over nearly the
entire subcontinent.

Q2. How did the Marathas rise to power? What were the main causes of
the decline of Maratha power.

Ans. Shivaji established the Maratha kingdom under Aurangzeb's rule.

After Aurangzeb's death, Shivaji's grandson Shahu was freed from
captivity. Tara Bai, Raja Ram's widow, installed her son as a rival king
in Kolhapur, sparking a war between the two factions for Maratha
control. Shahu prevailed, securing his supremacy over the kingdom.

Q3. Describe the economy and social conditions of India in the

eighteenth century.

Ans. In the past, religious discrimination was absent, and state offices
were open to all regardless of religion. Hindu-Muslim unity fostered a
shared culture. However, Hindu society had divisions between upper and
lower castes and numerous Jatis. Untouchability was prevalent, with
many treated poorly by higher castes. Similarly, some Muslim groups
considered themselves superior. Women faced low societal status,
enduring practices like dowry, purdah, sati, female infanticide,
polygamy, and widow remarriage bans, making their lives difficult.