RBSE Solutions Class 9 Social Science Chapter 6 Nationalism in India

Chapter 6 Nationalism in India

Textbook Questions Solved

Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)

 

Question 1. In India, printing press was started in
(a) 1800 AD
(b) 1700 AD
(c) 1830 AD
(d) 1805 AD
Answer: (a) 1800 AD
In simple words: The printing press was first brought to India in 1800 AD, changing how news and ideas were shared. This technology helped people communicate faster and wider.

🎯 Exam Tip: Remember specific dates like these for significant historical events as they are often tested.

 

Question 2. Who was the writer of the book 'India's First War of Independence?
(a) R.C. Majumdar
(b) Ashok Mehta
(c) Veer Savarkar
(d) Dada Bhai Naoroji
Answer: (c) Veer Savarkar
In simple words: Veer Savarkar wrote an important book called 'India's First War of Independence'. This book explained the 1857 revolt as a national uprising for freedom.

🎯 Exam Tip: Associating authors with their key works is important for historical and literary questions.

 

Question 3. Major Burton was a political agent in of which place?
(a) Neemach
(b) Kota
(c) Erinpura
(d) Ajmar
Answer: (b) Kota
In simple words: Major Burton was a British officer who worked in Kota as a political agent. His presence in Kota was part of the British control over princely states.

🎯 Exam Tip: Knowing the positions and locations of key historical figures helps understand their role in events.

Very Short Answer Type Questions

 

Question 1. When was the publication of Bengal Gazette started?
Answer: The publication of Bengal Gazette started in 1780 AD. This was one of India's earliest newspapers, marking an important step in the country's media history.
In simple words: Bengal Gazette started in 1780 AD.

🎯 Exam Tip: Dates of first publications are important for understanding the growth of media and public awareness.

 

Question 2. Who created the song 'Vande Mataram'?
Answer: Bankim Chandra Chatterjee created the song 'Vande Mataram'. This patriotic song became a powerful symbol for Indian nationalists. It evoked deep feelings of love for the motherland.
In simple words: Bankim Chandra Chatterjee wrote 'Vande Mataram'.

🎯 Exam Tip: Names of authors and their famous works, especially national symbols, are key facts to remember.

 

Question 3. Who led the First War of Independence in 1857?
Answer: Bahadur Shah Zafar led the First War of Independence in 1857. He was the last Mughal emperor, and his leadership brought many rebels together. His symbolic leadership united diverse groups against the British.
In simple words: Bahadur Shah Zafar led the 1857 revolt.

🎯 Exam Tip: Identify the main leaders of significant historical movements, as they represent the collective aspirations.

 

Question 4. On which date was the revolt to be started?.
Answer: The revolt was planned to start on 31st May 1857. However, it began earlier than planned due to various incidents. This early start affected the coordination of the rebels.
In simple words: The revolt was supposed to start on May 31, 1857.

🎯 Exam Tip: Note both planned and actual start dates of events, especially when they differ, as this can be a nuanced detail.

 

Question 5. Where was Major Burton assassinated?
Answer: Major Burton was assassinated in Kota. This event highlights the strong resistance against British political agents in various regions. His death showed the intensity of the revolt in Kota.
In simple words: Major Burton was killed in Kota.

🎯 Exam Tip: Specific locations of key incidents are important for mapping the spread and intensity of revolts.

Short Answer Type Questions

 

Question 2. How did Britishers economically exploit India?
Answer: The British economic policies severely harmed India's small-scale industries. They bought raw materials from India at very low prices. These materials were sent to Britain, where they were made into finished goods, which were then sold back in India at high prices. This practice destroyed India's textile industry. The East India Company wanted India to be an agricultural country to supply raw materials for British factories. The British also made Indian people pay for their government's expenses in India through heavy taxes, which drained India's wealth to England. This exploitation led to the ruin of Indian businesses and farmers, causing widespread anger and revolts.
In simple words: The British harmed India's economy by buying cheap raw materials, selling expensive finished goods, burdening Indians with taxes, and destroying local industries, which made people angry and caused revolts.

🎯 Exam Tip: Focus on the cause-and-effect relationship between British policies and their impact on India's economy, mentioning specific examples like the textile industry.

 

Question 3. Mention the names of main revolutionaries of national movement.
Answer: Many revolutionaries played a vital role in India's independence movement. Some of the main figures include Bhagat Singh, Sukhdev, Rajguru, Chandra Shekhar Azad, Ashfaqulla Balwant Khan, Ram Prasad Bismil, Rajendra Lahiri, Khudiram Bose, Prafulla Chandra, Balwant Phadke, Veer Savarkar, Subhash Chandra Bose, Lala Lajpat Rai, Vipin Chandra Pal, Bal Gangadhar Tilak, Gopal Krishna Gokhale, Arvind Ghosh, Pt. Jawaharlal Nehru, and Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. These leaders inspired millions with their courage and vision for a free India.
In simple words: Key revolutionaries included Bhagat Singh, Veer Savarkar, Subhash Chandra Bose, Lala Lajpat Rai, and Bal Gangadhar Tilak, among many others who fought for India's freedom.

🎯 Exam Tip: When listing names, ensure accuracy in spelling and try to include a diverse set of prominent figures to show comprehensive knowledge.

 

Question 4. Illustrate the spread of 1857 Revolt in Rajasthan in brief.
Answer: The 1857 Revolt began because new rifle cartridges were rumored to be greased with animal fat. Revolutionaries burned British property and declared war. From Meerut, the revolt quickly spread to various parts of India, including Rajasthan. In Rajasthan, the revolution reached places like Nasirabad, Neemuch, Kota, Jhalawar, Tonk, and Shahpura. Soldiers in these areas were determined to end British rule. However, due to a lack of strong leadership, the British were able to suppress the revolt with their military power. This shows that unity and proper guidance are crucial for any uprising.
In simple words: The 1857 Revolt spread to Rajasthan, starting from Meerut, reaching places like Nasirabad and Kota. Soldiers in Rajasthan fought the British, but the revolt failed due to poor leadership.

🎯 Exam Tip: When describing the spread of a revolt, name specific places in the region and briefly mention the reasons for its success or failure.

Long Answer Type Questions

 

Question 1. Describe the causes of origin of nationalism in India.
Answer:
1. Impact of India's glorious past: In ancient times, India was known as "Vishwaguru" (world teacher) for its vast knowledge. Important Indian figures and rulers worked to unite India. This rich history inspired a strong feeling of nationalism among Indians in the 19th century, especially against the British. Many people, including Europeans, valued ancient Indian knowledge for the good of the world.
2. Impact of British rule: The British policies exploited Indians economically and culturally. This led to many revolts against the British Government between 1837 AD and 1857 AD. The entire national movement in India was a reaction to these unfair British policies.
3. Impact of English Education: Even though Macaulay introduced English education to make Indians mentally obedient, it accidentally helped unite them. English became a common language that allowed Indians to communicate across different regions. Indian youth studying higher education became more aware of national issues, which boosted their nationalist feelings.
4. Impact of contact with western thinkers and philosophers: English education also connected Indian youth with revolutionary Western thinkers like Burke, Bentham, Mill, Rousseau, Milton, and Spencer. Learning about these philosophers' ideas strengthened nationalist thoughts in India. The British wanted to benefit from this education, but it eventually worked against them by fostering a spirit of freedom.
5. Contribution of Writers and Poets: Many writers and poets contributed to awakening nationalist feelings through their works. Prominent figures like Bankim Chandra Chatterjee, Rabindranath Tagore, Badri Narayan Chaudhary, Pratap Narayan Mishra, and Bal Krishna Bhatt used their writings to inspire a sense of national pride and unity. Their creations helped people understand the importance of nation and culture.
6. Starting of Printing Press and contribution of Newspapers: Newspapers and magazines became easy ways to spread information. The printing press started in Rampur near Kolkata in 1800 AD, leading to more newspapers. The first newspaper, India Gazette, was published in 1774 AD, and Bengal Gazette in 1780 AD. Raja Ram Mohan Roy published 'Samvad Kaumudi' and 'Miratul' to spread nationalist feelings. In 1826 AD, 'Uddant Martand', the first Hindi newspaper, was published. These newspapers criticized the East India Company's unfair policies. Through newspapers, ideas from Indian social reformers and political thinkers reached the public, creating an environment of sacrifice and nationalism in India.
7. Discriminated policy of the British for Indians: Indians were not given high-ranking jobs. After the 1857 revolt, Britishers treated Indians harshly and discriminated against them. This unfair treatment caused much anger among Indians.
8. Impact of Social and Religious Reforms or National movement: New religious groups like Brahmo Samaj, Arya Samaj, and Ramakrishna Mission helped remove social problems and started the freedom movement. Leaders like Raja Ram Mohan Roy and Swami Dayanand Saraswati worked to fix social evils and awaken national feelings among people.
9. India's economic exploitation: The British economic policies ruined India's small industries. They bought raw materials cheaply and sold finished goods at high prices, destroying local textile businesses. The British wanted India to be a raw material supplier for their industries in England. Differences in taxes on Indian imports and exports, along with the British government's expenses being paid by India, caused Indian wealth to flow to England. This economic harm and exploitation of farmers pushed Indians to revolt.
In simple words: Nationalism grew in India because of India's proud past, unfair British rule, English education that spread new ideas, contact with Western thinkers, writers inspiring people, the spread of newspapers, British discrimination, social reforms, and economic exploitation. All these factors together made Indians want their own free nation.

🎯 Exam Tip: When listing multiple causes, provide a concise explanation for each, showing how it contributed to the rise of nationalism. Use clear headings for each point.

 

Question 3. Give the causes of the failure of War of Independence, 1857.
Answer: The British were initially scared by the organized Indian revolt in 1857, and revolutionaries won in many places. However, the British eventually suppressed the First War of India's Independence due to several reasons:
1. Lack of definite planning: Revolutionaries could not connect with each other due to poor planning. There was no clear communication.
2. Insufficient resources: Indian soldiers had old weapons and not enough supplies compared to the British.
3. Lack of centralized leadership: There was no single, strong leader to guide the entire revolt. The British had superior weapons, better war techniques, and skilled leaders.
4. Support from Princely States: Many Indian kings and rulers (Princely States) supported the British. Lord Canning's clever policies made them loyal to the British. This weakened the Indian side.
5. Unsympathetic rulers: Many rulers like Scindia, Holkar, and Nizam did not join the revolt. Gorkhas, Sikhs, and Rajputs remained loyal to the British. Moneylenders, merchants, and zamindars also supported the British.
6. Selfishness: The selfish nature of some Indian soldiers also contributed to the failure.
7. Lack of public awareness: Not everyone knew about or supported the revolt, especially in some regions.
8. Disorganized start: The revolt started earlier than planned, on 31st May 1857, which disorganized the whole plan.
9. Strong Naval power: The British had a very powerful navy, which helped them move troops and supplies.
10. Weak military organization: Revolutionaries lacked a strong military organization.
11. Lack of able leadership: The Indian side did not have enough skilled leaders to guide the revolt effectively.
In simple words: The 1857 revolt failed because there was no clear plan, leaders were weak, soldiers lacked resources, many Indian kings helped the British, and it started too early.

🎯 Exam Tip: When discussing failures, categorize the reasons (e.g., leadership, resources, unity) and explain each point briefly for a comprehensive answer.

 

Question 4. Describe the importance of the First War of Independence, 1857.
Answer: Although Indians did not win the 1857 War of Independence, it forced the British to make significant administrative changes. After the revolt, the British strengthened and reorganized their army, increasing the number of British soldiers. Even though it failed, the revolt proved that if Indians made planned and organized efforts, the British could be driven out of the country. This strong spirit of nationalism eventually led to India's freedom. The revolt also showed the people the need for unity and effective leadership.
In simple words: The 1857 revolt, though it failed, was important because it forced the British to change how they ruled and showed Indians that they could fight for freedom if united. It was a crucial step towards India's independence.

🎯 Exam Tip: Highlight both the immediate and long-term impacts of the 1857 revolt, focusing on how it changed British policy and Indian nationalist sentiment.

 

Question 5. Discuss the role played by Rajasthan in the first war of Independence, 1857.
Answer: The immediate cause of the 1857 Revolt was the use of new cartridges suspected of being greased with animal fat. Revolutionaries set fire to British buildings and declared war. The revolt spread from Meerut to various parts of India, including Rajasthan. In Rajasthan, soldiers were also determined to end British rule. The people of Jodhpur and even some robbers supported the revolutionaries. Jodhpur soldiers encouraged people to revolt against the British, leading to the Auwa revolt against British forces. Here's how different places in Rajasthan participated:
1. Nasirabad: On 28 May 1857, soldiers in Nasirabad forcefully took over guns and looted the treasury. They killed a British officer, and the British army fled to save themselves. From here, these soldiers went to Delhi, showing the immediate and direct action against the British.
2. Neemach: The revolt from Nasirabad also reached Neemach. In Neemach, soldiers looted the Shastragar (weapon stock), and British officers fled to Udaipur. The Maharana of Udaipur gave them shelter, indicating local resistance and support for British escapees.
3. Kota: In Kota, common people and state military fought against the British due to the Maharav of Kota's pro-British policy, which made him an enemy of revolutionaries. Jaidayal, Mehrab Khan, Ratan Lai, and Jia Lai played a significant role in stirring anti-British feelings. Revolutionaries took complete control of Kota's administration. Major Burton, the political agent in Kota, was killed along with his two sons by revolutionaries. With public support, they imprisoned the ruler in the palace. However, due to a lack of proper and widely accepted leadership, the British suppressed the revolt with their military force.
4. Jhalawar: Tatya Tope entered Jhalawar in Rajasthan and took control. Revolutionaries seized weapon stock. His arrival sparked new energy among revolutionaries. Samant of Kothari Jodh Singh and Rawte Kesari Singh of Salumbar fully supported Tatya Tope.
In simple words: Rajasthan played a big role in the 1857 revolt. Places like Nasirabad, Neemach, Kota, and Jhalawar saw soldiers and common people rising against the British, killing officers, and taking control. Despite strong efforts and leadership from figures like Tatya Tope, the revolt eventually failed due to a lack of overall leadership.

🎯 Exam Tip: Detail specific events and the involvement of different towns or leaders in Rajasthan to show a thorough understanding of the regional impact of the revolt.

Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)

 

Question 1. Calcutta (Kolkata) had been the capital of India till which year?
(a) 1910 AD
(b) 1911 AD
(c) 1913 AD
(d) 1947 AD
Answer: (b) 1911 AD
In simple words: Kolkata was India's capital until 1911. After that, the capital was moved to Delhi.

🎯 Exam Tip: Know important administrative changes like capital shifts and their dates, as they are key historical facts.

 

Question 2. Who was Rabindranath Tagore?
(a) Poet
(b) Musician
(c) Dramatist and novelist
(d) All of these
Answer: (d) All of these
In simple words: Rabindranath Tagore was a multi-talented person. He was a famous poet, musician, playwright, and writer. He won the Nobel Prize for Literature.

🎯 Exam Tip: For figures with multiple achievements, recognize that "All of these" or similar options are often correct if all listed roles apply.

 

Question 3. Which of the following states was not merged in the British empire by Lord Wellesley?
(a) Nagpur
(b) Awadh
(c) Junagarh
(d) Jhansi
Answer: (c) Junagarh
In simple words: Junagarh was not taken over by the British empire during Lord Wellesley's time. This shows it remained independent longer than some other states.

🎯 Exam Tip: Understand the policies of Governors-General like Lord Wellesley (e.g., Subsidiary Alliance) and which states were affected.

 

Question 4. Who declared the Revolt of 1857?
(a) Mangal Pandey
(b) Rani Laxmibai
Answer: (a) Mangal Pandey
In simple words: Mangal Pandey was one of the first to openly revolt against the British in 1857. His act sparked the larger uprising, though it began with many localized incidents.

🎯 Exam Tip: Identify the individuals who initiated key revolts, as their actions often served as catalysts for broader movements.

 

Question 5. When was Tatya Tope hanged till death?
(a) 1800
(b) 1799
(c) 1859
(d) 1857
Answer: (c) 1859
In simple words: Tatya Tope, a brave leader in the 1857 revolt, was hanged to death in 1859. His execution marked a sad end for one of the key figures of the rebellion.

🎯 Exam Tip: Knowing the fates and execution dates of key revolutionary figures helps complete their historical narratives.

Very Short Answer Type Questions

 

Question 1. Who was Veer Savarkar?
Answer: Veer Savarkar was a great Indian freedom fighter. He famously called the 1857 Revolt "the first struggle for freedom". He wrote important books and was a strong voice for Indian independence. His ideas influenced many nationalist movements.
In simple words: Veer Savarkar was a big freedom fighter who called the 1857 uprising India's first fight for freedom.

🎯 Exam Tip: When asked about a historical figure, state their main role or contribution clearly and briefly mention any significant ideas or actions.

 

Question 2. Describe the role of Rajasthan in freedom struggle.
Answer: Rajasthan always played an important role in creating national awareness and leading the freedom movement against British rule. Many local leaders and communities in Rajasthan actively participated in various uprisings. The bravery shown by people in places like Kota and Nasirabad was significant. This helped to spread the message of nationalism across the region. Their resistance contributed to the overall national struggle.
In simple words: Rajasthan was key in the freedom fight, helping to spread national awareness and fighting against British rule.

🎯 Exam Tip: Focus on the specific contributions of a region (like Rajasthan) to the larger national movement, including examples of local resistance.

 

Question 3. Describe the contribution of Brahmo Samaj, Arya Samaj and Ramakrishan Mission.
Answer: Brahmo Samaj, Arya Samaj, and Ramakrishna Mission all worked to fight against the bad social practices in Indian society. They helped to awaken a sense of duty and respect towards the nation among the people. These organizations played a crucial role in social reform and promoting a strong national identity. They helped Indians realize their own worth and heritage.
In simple words: Brahmo Samaj, Arya Samaj, and Ramakrishna Mission fought social evils and made people feel proud and loyal to their nation.

🎯 Exam Tip: Highlight the dual role of these organizations: social reform and fostering nationalistic feelings.

Short Answer Type Questions

 

Question 1. How can one understand the nation, country and state?
Answer: In India, a nation, country, and state can be understood using the following table:

If people, a shared culture, a specific land area, and sovereignty (self-rule) are all present, then it forms an ideal nation. These four elements are essential for a nation to exist.
In simple words: A nation, country, and state are understood by four main parts: people, shared culture, a specific land, and the power to rule themselves (sovereignty). When all four are together, it makes a complete nation.

🎯 Exam Tip: Define each term simply and use the table structure to clearly present the interconnected elements of a nation.

 

Question 2. Name some newspapers which aroused the feeling of nationalism among the people.
Answer: Several newspapers played a crucial role in awakening nationalist feelings among people. In 1774 AD, the first newspaper, India Gazette, and in 1780 AD, Bengal Gazette, were published. Raja Ram Mohan Roy published 'Samvad Kaumudi' and 'Miratul' to spread nationalism. In 1826 AD, 'Uddant Martand', the first Hindi newspaper, was started. These newspapers openly criticized the East India Company's exploitative policies. Through these publications, the ideas of Indian social reformers and political thinkers reached the public. Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar published 'Som Prakash', and Harish Chandra Mukherjee published "Hindu Patriot". In 1868 AD, 'Amrit Bazar Magazine' was published. Tilak published 'Kesari' in Marathi and 'Martha' in English. These newspapers created a spirit of sacrifice and nationalism throughout India. They were powerful tools for sharing anti-British sentiment.
In simple words: Newspapers like India Gazette, Bengal Gazette, Samvad Kaumudi, Uddant Martand, Som Prakash, Hindu Patriot, Amrit Bazar Magazine, Kesari, and Martha helped spread nationalist feelings and criticized British rule, making people more aware.

🎯 Exam Tip: List specific newspaper names and their languages if known. Briefly mention how they contributed to nationalism (e.g., criticizing policies, spreading ideas).

 

Question 3. Discuss any one cause of the failure of war of Independence, 1857.
Answer: One main cause of the failure of the War of Independence in 1857 was the lack of strong, unified leadership. While revolutionaries initially defeated the British in many places, they struggled to maintain control because there was no central command guiding their efforts. The British, on the other hand, had a well-organized military and clear leadership. This allowed them to respond effectively and suppress the revolt. Without a single, accepted leader, the various rebel groups could not coordinate their actions well enough. This made it easier for the British to defeat them one by one. This shows how crucial strong leadership is in any major uprising.
In simple words: The 1857 revolt failed partly because it lacked one strong leader. Without a unified command, the various rebel groups couldn't work together properly, making it easier for the organized British army to defeat them.

🎯 Exam Tip: When asked to discuss "any one cause," choose a significant cause and explain its impact thoroughly, providing context and consequences.

Long Answer Type Questions

 

Question 1. Tatya Tope played an important role in the first war of India's Independence, 1857. Explain.
Answer: Tatya Tope, born in 1819 AD, was a very important leader in India's First War of Independence in 1857. He served as the army chief for Nana Saheb. He fought bravely against the British in Kanpur. When the British took control of Kanpur, he went to Kalpi and continued his revolt alongside Rani Laxmibai of Jhansi. Tatya Tope then captured Gwalior. He later entered Jhalawar in Rajasthan, taking control of the area and seizing weapon stock. His arrival in Rajasthan brought new energy to the revolutionaries. Samant of Kothari Jodh Singh and Rawte Kesari Singh of Salumbar gave him full support. Tatya Tope played a vital role in challenging British power and inspiring others during the war for independence. His strategic movements across different regions kept the British forces engaged and demonstrated strong resistance.
In simple words: Tatya Tope was a key leader in the 1857 revolt, serving as Nana Saheb's army chief. He fought bravely in Kanpur, then with Rani Laxmibai, captured Gwalior, and stirred up revolts in Rajasthan. His actions were crucial in fighting the British during the independence war.

🎯 Exam Tip: When explaining a historical figure's role, mention their key positions, specific actions or battles, and their impact on the overall movement, including their alliances.

Answers SST Chapter 12