Subject-wise Modern History Questions in UPSC Mains (2022 – 2013)

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Modern history is a fascinating subject that encompasses the study of the world from the 18th century to the present day. The period is characterized by various significant events such as the Industrial Revolution, the rise of nationalism, and the World Wars. For UPSC aspirants, modern history holds great importance as it is a critical topic in the main exam. The subject includes various aspects such as political, social, and economic changes that occurred during this period. In the previous year’s main examination, several questions related to modern history were asked, emphasizing the importance of this subject for the exam. Therefore, aspirants must have a comprehensive understanding of the topic to score well in the exam.

To excel in the Modern History section of the UPSC Mains exam, aspirants must focus on building a strong foundation. A thorough understanding of the various events, their causes, and their impact on society is essential. Additionally, aspirants must keep themselves updated with the latest developments in the field of modern history, such as new perspectives and interpretations of historical events. Regular practice of answering previous year’s questions and mock tests can also help in developing the necessary writing skills required to ace the exam. With consistent efforts, dedication, and a passion for modern history, aspirants can undoubtedly excel in this section of the UPSC Mains exam.

2023

1. What was the difference between Mahatma Gandhi and Rabindranath Tagore in their approach towards education and nationalism?

2. How did the colonial rule affect the tribals in India and what was the tribal response to the colonial oppression?

2022

1. Why was there a sudden spurt in famines in colonial India since the mid-eighteenth century ? Give reasons.

2. Why did the armies of the British East India Company – mostly comprising of Indian soldiers – win consistently against the more numerous and better equipped armies of the then Indian rulers ? Give reasons.

2021

1. Trace the rise and growth of socio-religious reform movements with special reference to Young Bengal and Brahmo Samaj.

2. To what extinct did the role of moderates prepare a base for the wider freedom movement? comment

3. Bring out the constructive programmes of Mahatma Gandhi during Non-Cooperation Movement and Civil Disobedience Movement.

2020

1. Evaluate the policies of Lord Curzon and their long-term implications on the national movement. 

2. Since the decade of the 1920s, the national movement acquired various ideological strands and thereby expanded its social base. Discuss.

2019

1. The 1857 Uprising was the culmination the recurrent big and small local rebellions that had occurred in the preceding hundred years of British rule. Elucidate.

2. Examine the linkages between 19th centuries ‘Indian Renaissance’ and the emergence of national identity.

3. Many voices had strengthened and enriched the nationalist movement during the Gandhian phase. Elaborate.

4. Assess the role of British imperial power in complicating the process of transfer of power during the 1940s.

2018

1. Throw light on the significance of thoughts of Mahatma Gandhi in the present times.

2. Why indentured labour was taken by British from India to other colonies? Have they been able to preserve their cultural identity over there?

2017

1. Clarify how mid-eighteenth century India was beset with the spectre of a fragmented polity?

2. Why did the ‘Moderates’ fail to carry conviction with the nation about their proclaimed ideology and political goals by the end of the nineteenth century?

3. Examine how the decline of traditional artisanal industry in colonial India crippled the rural economy.

4. Highlight the importance of new objective that got added to the vision of Indian independence since the twenties of the last century.

5. The women’s questions arose in modern India as a part of the 19th century social reform movement. What were the major issues and debates concerning women in that period?

2016

1. Explain how the upraising of 1857 constitutes an important watershed in the evolution of British policies towards colonial India.

2. Discuss the role of women in the freedom struggle especially during the Gandhian phase.

3. Highlight the difference in the approach of Subhash Chandra Bose and Mahatma Gandhi in the struggle for freedom.

2015

1. How different would have been the achievement of Indian independence without Mahatma Gandhi? Discuss.

2. Mahatma Gandhi and Dr. B. R. Ambedkar, despite having divergent approaches and strategies, had a common goal of amelioration of the downtrodden. Elucidate.

3. It would have been difficult for the Constituent Assembly to complete its historic task of drafting the Constitution for Independent India in just three years but for the experience gained with the Government of India Act, 1935. Discuss.

2014

1. The third battle of Panipat was fought in 1761. Why were so many empire-shaking battles fought at Panipat?

2. Examine critically the various facets of economic policies of the British in India from mid-eighteenth century till independence.

3. In what ways did the naval mutiny prove to be the last nail in the coffin of British colonial aspirations in India?

4. What were the major political, economic and social developments in the world which motivated the anti-colonial struggle in India?

2013

1. Defying the barriers of age, gender, and religion, the Indian women became the torch-bearer during the struggle for freedom in India. Discuss.

2. Several foreigners made India their homeland and participated in various movements. Analyze their role in the Indian struggle for freedom.

3. “In many ways, Lord Dalhousie was the founder of modern India.” Elaborate.

4. Critically discuss the objectives of Bhoodan and Gramdan Movements initiated by Acharya Vinoba Bhave and their success.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Question: Explain the significance of the Non-Cooperation Movement in India’s struggle for independence.

Answer: The Non-Cooperation Movement, initiated by Mahatma Gandhi in 1920, was a pivotal phase in India’s struggle for independence. It marked a departure from constitutional methods and sought to involve the masses in nonviolent resistance against British rule. The movement aimed to boycott British institutions, promote self-reliance, and demonstrate the unity of Indians. Although it was eventually called off after the Chauri Chaura incident in 1922, the Non-Cooperation Movement had a lasting impact by awakening political consciousness and fostering a sense of national pride.

2. Question: Assess the role of Subhas Chandra Bose in India’s struggle for freedom.

Answer: Subhas Chandra Bose played a crucial role in India’s struggle for freedom. He advocated for militant means to achieve independence and formed the Indian National Army (INA) during World War II, seeking assistance from Axis powers. Bose’s slogan “Give me blood, and I shall give you freedom” reflected his commitment to a forceful struggle. Although the INA’s military impact was limited, Bose’s efforts stirred patriotic sentiments and contributed to the ultimate withdrawal of the British from India.

3. Question: Analyze the impact of the Jallianwala Bagh massacre on the Indian independence movement.

Answer: The Jallianwala Bagh massacre of 1919, where British troops under General Dyer opened fire on a peaceful gathering in Amritsar, had a profound impact on the Indian independence movement. The brutality shocked the nation and led to widespread resentment against British rule. It galvanized public opinion, pushing many fence-sitters into the nationalist fold. The massacre fueled a sense of outrage that became a rallying point for the demand for self-rule and contributed significantly to the momentum of the independence movement.

4. Question: Discuss the Montagu-Chelmsford Reforms and their implications for India’s constitutional development.

Answer: The Montagu-Chelmsford Reforms of 1919 marked a significant step towards constitutional development in India. These reforms introduced the principle of responsible government at the provincial level, though with limited powers. The Diarchy system, with control divided between elected Indian ministers and British officials, was implemented in certain provinces. While the reforms fell short of full self-governance, they laid the foundation for future constitutional advancements and political awareness among Indians.

5. Question: Examine the socio-economic impact of the British colonial rule on India.

Answer: British colonial rule had profound socio-economic implications for India. The exploitative economic policies, such as the drain of wealth, disrupted traditional industries, and imposed heavy taxes, leading to widespread poverty. The introduction of railways and telecommunication improved connectivity but primarily served imperial interests. Socially, the caste system and communalism were exacerbated, leading to divisions among communities. The impact of British colonialism laid the groundwork for later socio-economic challenges that independent India had to address.

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