RBSE Solutions Class 11 Political Science Chapter 14 Liberals, Extremists and Revolution

RBSE Class 11 Political Science Chapter 14 Textual Questions

RBSE Class 11 Political Science Chapter 14 Very Short Answer Type Questions

Question 1. Who were looked upon as arm-chair politicians?
Answer: The liberal leaders during the national movement were often considered arm-chair politicians. They were seen as focusing more on discussion and constitutional methods rather than direct, aggressive action. This perception sometimes led to criticism from more radical groups.
In simple words: People called liberal leaders 'armchair politicians' because they mostly talked about politics and used peaceful methods instead of taking strong action.

🎯 Exam Tip: When describing political groups, identify their key characteristics and methods clearly. Mentioning how they were perceived by others adds depth to your answer.

Question 2. Give a brief introduction of Gopal Krishna Gokhale's life.
Answer: Gopal Krishna Gokhale, a prominent liberal leader, was born in Kolhapur, Bombay, in 1866. He started his career as a teacher at the age of 20 and later became a principal. Gokhale was known for his dedication to duty and played a key role in setting up the British Council of the Indian National Congress. He strongly believed in using peaceful and constitutional methods to achieve political reforms.
In simple words: Gopal Krishna Gokhale was born in 1866 in Bombay. He was a liberal leader who worked for India's freedom using peaceful ways. Mahatma Gandhi considered him his political teacher.

🎯 Exam Tip: When providing a brief introduction to a historical figure, include their birth year, key roles, and major contributions or beliefs concisely.

Question 4. By which name did Gandhiji call Gokhale?
Answer: Mahatma Gandhi affectionately called Gokhale 'pious-soul Gokhale'. This name showed his deep respect for Gokhale's pure intentions and spiritual nature, highlighting his moral integrity in politics.
In simple words: Gandhiji called Gokhale 'pious-soul Gokhale' because he thought Gokhale had a very good and pure spirit.

🎯 Exam Tip: Mentioning titles or nicknames given by other prominent figures can illustrate the relationship and perception of the person in question.

Question 5. What did Lord Curzon say on the death of Gokhale in the House of Lords?
Answer: Upon Gokhale's passing, Lord Curzon stated in the House of Lords that he had never encountered anyone with greater parliamentary skill and talent than Gokhale in any nation. This was a high compliment to Gokhale's political abilities and oratorical skills, coming from a leading British statesman.
In simple words: Lord Curzon said Gokhale was the most skilled speaker in parliament he had ever seen from any country. It was a big praise for Gokhale's talent.

🎯 Exam Tip: When quoting or paraphrasing, ensure the essence of the statement is captured accurately, especially if it highlights respect or recognition from an opponent.

Question 6. Why did Gokhale believe in step-by-step reforms?
Answer: Gopal Krishna Gokhale believed that achieving 'Complete Swaraj' (full self-rule) was a gradual process. He felt that major changes and full independence could only be attained through a series of careful, step-by-step reforms, building a strong and stable foundation over time. This reflected his pragmatic and realistic political approach.
In simple words: Gokhale believed in slow, step-by-step reforms because he thought 'Complete Swaraj' or full independence could only be achieved gradually.

🎯 Exam Tip: Explaining the 'why' behind a leader's belief provides a deeper understanding of their philosophy. Focus on terms like 'gradual process' and 'stable foundation'.

Question 7. Why did Gokhale not favour ‘Boycott'?
Answer: Gokhale did not support the idea of a boycott because he viewed it as a violent act. He believed that boycotts carried a message of revenge, which was against his philosophy of peaceful and constitutional means. He preferred constructive cooperation and dialogue over confrontational tactics. Gokhale felt that such negative actions could lead to further instability.
In simple words: Gokhale did not like boycotts because he saw them as a violent act that spread anger and revenge, which he did not agree with.

🎯 Exam Tip: Clearly state the reason for a leader's opposition to a policy, linking it back to their core beliefs or philosophy, such as Gokhale's emphasis on non-violence and constitutional methods.

Question 8. What according to Tilak is meaning of Political Self-rule (Swaraj)?
Answer: According to Bal Gangadhar Tilak, Political Self-rule (Swaraj) meant that a nation should have complete political freedom. He believed that the country must have its own government, run by its own people, and no foreign power has the right to rule another nation. This fundamental principle was central to his vision for India's independence, emphasizing national sovereignty. His famous slogan was "Swaraj is my birthright, and I shall have it."
In simple words: For Tilak, Political Self-rule (Swaraj) meant India should be completely free, having its own government run by its own people, with no foreign country ruling over it.

🎯 Exam Tip: When defining a key concept like Swaraj, provide its meaning and optionally include a relevant quote or slogan from the leader to strengthen your answer.

Question 10. What according to Tilak is the meaning of Swadeshi?
Answer: Bal Gangadhar Tilak defined Swadeshi as a symbol of patriotism that aimed to completely transform Indian national life in every respect. He believed it was a movement essential for achieving a healthy national life and the only way to free India from British rule. Swadeshi encouraged self-reliance and the use of indigenous goods, strengthening the national economy. For Tilak, Swadeshi was a powerful tool for national regeneration and liberation.
In simple words: Tilak said Swadeshi was a sign of patriotism. It meant changing Indian life in every way and was the only effective movement to get free from British rule.

🎯 Exam Tip: Highlight how Swadeshi was perceived as more than just an economic concept by leaders like Tilak, connecting it to wider national life and patriotism.

Question 11. What does Tilak mean by Spiritual Swaraj?
Answer: For Tilak, Spiritual Swaraj referred to a form of self-rule that helped individuals grow and develop spiritually. He believed that true freedom also involved inner liberation and moral upliftment, allowing people to achieve higher spiritual goals. This was a deeper form of self-governance beyond just political freedom, focusing on the soul and moral consciousness. Tilak saw it as essential for overall human progress.
In simple words: Spiritual Swaraj, for Tilak, meant self-rule that helped people become better and more spiritual. It was about inner freedom and moral growth.

🎯 Exam Tip: Distinguish between different aspects of "Swaraj" (e.g., political vs. spiritual) when explaining a leader's nuanced philosophy.

Question 12. Who were the main heroes of the revolutionary movement in India?
Answer: The key figures of the revolutionary movement in India included Sardar Bhagat Singh, Chandra Shekhar Azad, and Subhash Chandra Bose. Many other brave individuals also contributed significantly to this movement, fighting for India's independence through various means. These leaders inspired countless people to join the struggle against British oppression.
In simple words: The main heroes of India's revolutionary movement were Sardar Bhagat Singh, Chandra Shekhar Azad, and Subhash Chandra Bose. Many others also played important roles.

🎯 Exam Tip: When asked to name prominent figures, ensure you include at least two or three well-known personalities and briefly mention their collective role.

Question 13. What was the ideology of the revolutionaries regarding the objective and the means?
Answer: The revolutionaries held the belief that if the ultimate goal was significant and noble, then the methods used to achieve it were less important. Essentially, they felt that a great objective justified any means necessary to reach it, including violence. Their focus was primarily on achieving their objective of freedom, rather than strictly adhering to specific non-violent methods, which set them apart from other movements. This approach often led them to consider direct action and armed struggle.
In simple words: Revolutionaries believed that if their goal was very important, then the methods they used to achieve it did not matter as much. They cared more about reaching their goal than about how they got there.

🎯 Exam Tip: Explain the core belief of the revolutionaries on 'ends justify means,' as it defines their distinct approach compared to other nationalist groups.

Question 14. What was the objective of the revolutionaries?
Answer: The primary goal of the revolutionaries was to liberate India completely from British rule. They aimed to establish a free and independent nation, ending all foreign control and oppression. This central objective drove all their actions and sacrifices, as they sought nothing less than full sovereignty for their homeland. Their goal was not reform, but complete freedom.
In simple words: The revolutionaries wanted to free India from British control. Their main goal was to make India a fully independent country.

🎯 Exam Tip: State the core objective clearly and concisely. For revolutionaries, 'complete freedom' or 'ending foreign rule' are key phrases.

RBSE Class 11 Political Science Chapter 14 Short Answer Type Questions

Question 1. Explain the working-strategy of the liberals.
Answer: The liberals followed a strategy focused on gradual and constitutional reforms:
(1) **Movement for slow and gradual reforms:** Liberals aimed for slow political changes. They thought India could grow by working with the British government, believing that reforms would naturally progress over time.
(2) **Belief in Constitutional reforms:** Liberals trusted peaceful, legal methods. They sent polite requests, written notes, and groups (delegations) to the British government to present their demands.
(3) **Belief in the sense of justice of the British government:** Liberals believed in the fairness of the British government. They thought British rule brought good things like modern English education, transportation, and communication to India. Their strategy emphasized dialogue and cooperation, believing it would eventually lead to greater Indian participation in governance.
In simple words: Liberals wanted reforms to happen slowly and peacefully. They believed in working with the British government and thought British rule was good for India. They used polite requests and discussions to ask for changes, trusting in British fairness.

🎯 Exam Tip: When explaining a strategy with multiple points, use clear headings or bullet points for each aspect. Emphasize their methods (constitutional means, cooperation) and their underlying beliefs (gradualism, faith in British justice).

Question 2. What was the liberal's view-point regarding the administrative system of the British government?
Answer: The liberals viewed British rule as a positive influence on India, almost like a blessing. They believed that India's progress and development could only happen with the cooperation and support of the British government. Although they were nationalists, they felt grateful for the British administration, which they thought brought order and modernity. They believed that using force would only make the British react with more harshness towards Indians, so they advocated for peaceful means. They wished for India to remain part of the British Empire, advocating for reforms rather than complete independence. Their belief stemmed from their education, which led them to trust in the British system and its potential for good governance. This perspective shaped their calls for gradual reforms, aiming for more Indian representation rather than a full break from British authority.
In simple words: Liberals thought British rule was good for India and helped it develop. They were thankful to the British and believed that working with them was best. They feared that using force would only make the British crueler. They wanted India to stay linked to the British Empire but with more rights.

🎯 Exam Tip: When discussing political viewpoints, explain not only what they believed but also *why* they held those beliefs (e.g., education, fear of repercussions). Contrast with other groups if relevant.

Question 3. Throw light on the salient features of Gokhale's life.
Answer: Gopal Krishna Gokhale's life was marked by his dedication to public service and liberal ideals:
(1) **Early Life & Career:** Gokhale was born in Kolhapur, Bombay, in 1866. He started as a teacher at 20 and later became a principal, demonstrating his commitment to education. He played an important role in founding the British Council of the Indian National Congress and promoting its newsletter 'INDIA'.
(2) **Key Actions & Influence:** In 1912, he brokered peace between Indian satyagrahis and the South African government, led by Mahatma Gandhi. Gandhi considered him his political teacher, showing Gokhale's profound influence. Gokhale also turned down a knighthood from the British, highlighting his independence.
(3) **Political Beliefs:** He disagreed with violent methods and opposed centralizing power, believing in decentralization for better governance. He aimed for self-rule through peaceful, constitutional means, advocating for gradual progress.
(4) **Legacy:** Gokhale founded 'Bharat Sewak Sangh' (Servants of India Society) to educate young people in moral and spiritual duties, showing his commitment to public service and nation-building. His life showcased a blend of academic pursuit and dedicated political activism, always focusing on reform and justice.
(5) **Political Style:** He adopted politics with a feeling of duty, emphasizing moral values and practical realism in his approach to public life.
In simple words: Gopal Krishna Gokhale was born in 1866 in Bombay. He was a liberal leader who saw politics as a duty. He became a teacher and then a principal. He helped Indians in South Africa and was Mahatma Gandhi's political teacher. Gokhale did not like violence and wanted India to rule itself peacefully. He also started the 'Bharat Sewak Sangh' to teach young people good values.

🎯 Exam Tip: For a biographical sketch, categorize information (e.g., early life, key actions, beliefs) to make the answer clear and structured. Include significant events, contributions, and defining characteristics.

Question 4. Explain Gokhale's concept of Swaraj.
Answer: Gopal Krishna Gokhale, a liberal leader, believed in a gradual approach to development for India. His concept of Swaraj (self-rule) focused on achieving reforms step by step. He thought that administrative corruption, which he linked to the English bureaucracy, could be solved through self-rule. In 1905, he stated that the Indian National Congress aimed for India to be governed for the welfare of its people, establishing a self-governing system similar to other parts of the British Empire, implying a dominion status for India. He believed self-rule would empower Indians to manage their own affairs better, leading to political and economic improvement. Gokhale's vision of Swaraj was about progressive self-governance rather than immediate, full independence, seeking reforms within the existing system.
In simple words: Gokhale's idea of Swaraj (self-rule) was about getting freedom slowly, step by step. He felt that India should be ruled for the good of its own people, just like other self-governing parts of the British Empire. He wanted India to have its own government under British rule, which he called 'dominion status'.

🎯 Exam Tip: Differentiate Gokhale's concept of Swaraj (dominion status, gradual reforms) from more radical views (complete independence). Mentioning his specific views, like the 1905 address, adds precision.

Question 8. Explain the programmes of the Extremists.
Answer: The main leaders of the Extremist movement included Bal Gangadhar Tilak, Lala Lajpat Rai, and Bipin Chandra Pal. This period in the national movement, from 1906 to 1919, saw a shift towards more assertive methods. Extremists strongly opposed British rule and sought immediate self-rule (Swaraj) rooted in Indian values. Their core programs were:
(1) **Boycott:** They advocated for refusing to use British goods, services, and institutions to pressure the government.
(2) **Swadeshi:** They promoted the use of goods made in India, aiming to strengthen local industries and foster economic self-reliance. This was a symbol of patriotism.
(3) **National Education:** They established Indian educational institutions to promote nationalist values and an education system free from colonial influence.
(4) **Self-dependence and Self-elevation:** They aimed to build self-reliance and self-respect among Indians, believing that freedom could not be gained as a charity but had to be earned through their own efforts. They worked to remove the belief that the British were all-powerful from the minds of the Indian people, inspiring them through direct action and organized resistance.
In simple words: The Extremists, led by leaders like Tilak, wanted India to rule itself right away. Their main plans were to boycott British goods, use only Indian goods (Swadeshi), promote national education, and encourage self-reliance. They wanted Indians to be brave and fight for their rights.

🎯 Exam Tip: When detailing programs, list each point clearly and briefly explain its purpose. Highlight how these programs differed from the Liberals' approach, emphasizing direct action and self-reliance.

Question 9. Throw light on the life of Tilak.
Answer: Bal Gangadhar Tilak, a key figure in the Extremist movement, was born on July 23, 1856, in Ratnagiri, Maharashtra. From a young age, his life's mission was to fight for India's freedom, focusing on achieving Swaraj (self-rule). He famously declared, "Swaraj is my birthright, and I shall have it." Tilak founded influential newspapers like 'Kesari' and 'Maratha' to spread his message and awaken national consciousness. He played a crucial role in building the national movement on a foundation of Indian cultural pride by starting festivals such as Ganesh Chaturthi and Shivaji Jayanti. He promoted boycott, national education, and non-violent resistance as ways to achieve Swaraj, inspiring many with his dedication to the cause. Tilak's emphasis on cultural pride and direct action helped mobilize a wider section of the Indian population into the freedom struggle, establishing him as a prominent nationalist leader.
In simple words: Bal Gangadhar Tilak was born in Ratnagiri in 1856. He was an important extremist leader who fought for India's freedom, famously saying, 'Swaraj is my birthright.' Tilak started newspapers like 'Kesari' and 'Maratha' and also began Ganesh and Shivaji festivals to unite people. He believed in boycott, national education, and peaceful resistance to get self-rule.

🎯 Exam Tip: For a leader's biography, include key dates (birth/death), famous quotes, and significant contributions (e.g., newspapers, festivals) that illustrate their impact on the movement.

Question 10. Explain Tilak's views on the freedom of the individual.
Answer: Bal Gangadhar Tilak viewed individual freedom as essential for personal growth and considered it a natural right, much like philosopher John Locke. He famously stated that freedom was a birthright. For Tilak, the term 'Swa' in Swaraj signified the human soul as a part of God. He believed that when individuals guided their lives by this divine consciousness, they could fully develop their souls and achieve spiritual happiness. Such enlightened individuals would then contribute to the welfare of both themselves and society. Tilak saw the country's freedom as a way to uplift the general public emotionally and morally. His perspective on freedom was primarily spiritual and ethical, offering a fresh understanding of liberty to Indians. Tilak linked individual spiritual development directly to the nation's collective welfare and freedom, highlighting a holistic view of liberty that integrated personal and national liberation.
In simple words: Tilak believed that being free was a natural right and helped a person grow. He saw 'Swa' (in Swaraj) as the soul, a part of God. When a person lived by this inner divine feeling, they would become happier and help society. For Tilak, freedom for the country also meant emotional and moral well-being for everyone. So, his idea of freedom was mostly about spiritual and moral growth.

🎯 Exam Tip: When discussing a leader's philosophy, explain the underlying principles and connect them to broader concepts (e.g., natural rights, spiritual development) to show a comprehensive understanding.

Question 11. Explain Tilak's concept of Swaraj.
Answer: Bal Gangadhar Tilak believed that freedom was vital for the complete growth and progress of every person. His concept of Swaraj (self-rule) emphasized that every nation should be governed by its own people, not by foreign rulers. He saw the British rule as a period of suffering for Indians in all aspects of life, and believed that gaining national freedom was the only way to end this suffering. Tilak declared boldly, "Freedom is my birthright, and I must have it." His idea of Swaraj was influenced by ancient Indian concepts like 'Vedic Swarajya'. He recognized two forms of Swaraj: political, which focused on earthly self-governance, and spiritual, which aimed for an individual's spiritual upliftment. His ultimate goal was to restore India's lost glory and pride through self-rule. Tilak's dual concept of Swaraj highlighted that true national liberation encompassed both political sovereignty and individual spiritual fulfillment.
In simple words: Tilak's idea of Swaraj meant that people should be free to grow and that their own nation should rule itself, not foreigners. He said, 'Freedom is my birthright!' He believed India was suffering under British rule and only freedom could fix it. Tilak thought Swaraj had two parts: political freedom for the country and spiritual freedom for people's inner growth.

🎯 Exam Tip: Fully elaborate on Tilak's Swaraj concept, explaining both its political and spiritual dimensions. Highlighting his famous quote reinforces his central role.

Question 13. Give a brief account of Sardar Bhagat Singh's life.
Answer: Sardar Bhagat Singh, a renowned revolutionary, was born on September 27, 1907, in Banga village, Punjab. Inspired by his freedom-fighter father, uncle, and grandfather, he grew up with strong patriotic feelings and joined various revolutionary groups. In 1928, he assisted Sukhdev and Rajguru in the killing of police officer Saunders in Lahore. On April 8, 1929, Bhagat Singh and Batukeshwar Dutt threw a bomb in the Central Assembly Hall to protest against British rule and make their voices heard. For his actions, Bhagat Singh, along with Rajguru and Sukhdev, was hanged on March 23, 1931. He was also a talented journalist, writing articles under pen names like 'Balwant' and 'Vidrohi' for various newspapers and magazines. While imprisoned, he authored books such as 'Biography', 'Door to Death', and 'The Revolutionary Movement in India', profoundly influencing India's youth and solidifying his status as a national hero.
In simple words: Bhagat Singh was born in Punjab in 1907. He was a brave revolutionary who fought for India's freedom. He helped kill a police officer and threw a bomb in the Assembly Hall to protest British rule. He was hanged on March 23, 1931. Bhagat Singh also wrote articles and books, inspiring many with his patriotism.

🎯 Exam Tip: For historical figures, mention significant events like birth/death dates, key actions, and literary contributions. This helps create a comprehensive overview of their life.

Question 15. Throw light on the programmes of the revolutionaries.
Answer: The revolutionaries adopted a range of programs to achieve their goals:
(1) **Spreading Hatred:** They aimed to stir up strong anti-British feelings among educated Indians using articles, speeches, and secret communications to expose injustices.
(2) **Inspiring Fearlessness:** They wanted to remove fear from jobless and hungry Indians, inspiring them with patriotism and a desire for freedom through plays, songs, and books.
(3) **Attracting Government Attention:** They sought to draw the British government's attention through public marches (Vande Mataram processions), Swadeshi meetings, and boycott activities, ensuring the freedom movement could continue without interruption.
(4) **Acquiring Arms:** They planned to produce and acquire bombs, pistols, guns, and other weapons from both local and international sources to build an armed resistance.
(5) **Funding Operations:** They raised money through looting and dacoities to fund their revolutionary operations smoothly, seeing it as a necessary evil for the cause.
(6) **Recruitment and Training:** They recruited young individuals, trained them in using weapons, and organized them into small, disciplined groups of freedom fighters. These diverse programs show the revolutionaries' commitment to both ideological awakening and direct action against the British.
In simple words: The revolutionaries had several plans: 1. To make educated Indians hate British rule using writings and speeches. 2. To make poor and jobless Indians brave by showing them plays and songs about freedom. 3. To get the British government's attention with marches and boycotts. 4. To make or get bombs, guns, and other weapons. 5. To collect money for their activities by looting. 6. To recruit and train young people to become freedom fighters.

🎯 Exam Tip: When describing programs, use clear, descriptive headings for each point. Explain the purpose behind each program to show a deeper understanding of the revolutionary strategy.

RBSE Class 11 Political Science Chapter 14 Essay Type Questions

Question 2. Throw light on Gokhale's viewpoints.
Answer: Mahatma Gandhi considered Gopal Krishna Gokhale his political guru, and Gokhale founded the 'Bharat Sewak Samaj' (Servants of India Society) to train young people in moral and spiritual duties for national service. Here are Gokhale's main viewpoints:
(1) **Belief in liberalism and just-mindedness of the British rule:** Gokhale saw British rule as a positive influence on India. He believed it brought new ideas about democracy, national awareness, laws, education, and communication.
(2) **Firm faith in Constitutional means:** Gokhale had strong belief in peaceful, legal methods. He thought it was not wise to directly confront the British power. His methods included polite appeals, written requests, sending delegations, holding meetings, publishing in newspapers, and engaging in respectful discussions and criticisms. He felt these methods were the most effective way to achieve change.
(3) **Decentralization of power:** He opposed centralizing power, as he felt it led to unchecked administrative power and public suffering. Gokhale believed Indians would gain rights only if the British government decentralized authority, giving more power to local bodies.
(4) **Concept of self-rule:** Gokhale advocated for self-rule through slow and steady reforms. He thought this approach would allow Indians to gradually achieve self-governance. He also believed that self-rule could fix problems like economic exploitation and administrative issues caused by British bureaucracy.
(5) **Gradual Reforms:** Gokhale held that Swaraj (self-rule) would be achieved through gradual changes. He saw these reforms as building blocks for India's future nationalism, viewing himself as a pragmatic politician who understood the need for patience.
(6) **Votary of Indian nationalism and its protection:** Gokhale was a true nationalist who deeply valued Indian pride. He used the 'Bharat Sewak Sangh' to spread nationalist thoughts, combining it with self-control and service to the nation.
(7) **Votary of Swadeshi:** Gokhale supported Swadeshi as a symbol of patriotism and a way to economic prosperity and self-respect for Indians. He believed it would promote mutual economic help and cooperation.
(8) **Opposition of Boycott:** He disagreed with boycott, viewing it as a violent act driven by revenge. He thought boycotting British goods or government services would not truly help the Indian cause and would only cause anger among opponents. Gokhale's approach was a strategic one, aiming for Indian empowerment through collaboration and systemic improvements rather than outright confrontation.
In simple words: Gokhale believed British rule brought good things to India. He had faith in peaceful, legal ways to make changes, like appeals and meetings. He opposed centralizing power and wanted self-rule to come through slow reforms, not violence. He supported Indian nationalism and Swadeshi but disagreed with boycotts, seeing them as angry and violent.

🎯 Exam Tip: When detailing a leader's viewpoints, use numbered points for clarity. Explain each view briefly and accurately. For comprehensive answers, include both their positive and negative stances on various issues.