Samacheer Kalvi Class 8 Social Science Solutions Chapter 7 Urban Changes During the British Rule

I. Choose The Correct Answer.

 

Question 1. Ancient town are
(a) Harappa and Mohenjadaro
(b) Delhi and Hyderabad
(c) Bombay and Calcutta
(d) None of the options
Answer: (a) Harappa and Mohenjadaro
In simple words: The cities of Harappa and Mohenjadaro are very old towns from ancient times in India. They show us how people lived long, long ago.

🎯 Exam Tip: Remember key examples of ancient towns as they often appear in questions about early civilizations.

 

Question 2. Coastal towns developed by the British were
(a) Surat
(b) Goa
(c) Bombay
(d) All of the options
Answer: (d) All of the options
In simple words: The British developed many coastal cities like Surat, Goa, and Bombay. These places were important for their sea trade. They used these port cities to send goods in and out of India.

🎯 Exam Tip: When a question asks about multiple examples in a category, carefully check if all options fit the criteria before choosing "All of the options".

 

Question 3. A new trend of urbanisation began in the latter half of 19th century as a result of
(a) Opening of Suez Canal
(b) Introduction of steam navigation
(c) Construction of railways
(d) All of the options
Answer: (d) All of the options
In simple words: Many things changed how cities grew in the late 1800s. The Suez Canal opened, steamships became common, and railways were built, all helping cities get bigger and more important. These changes made travel and trade much faster and easier.

🎯 Exam Tip: Understand how major infrastructure developments like canals and railways historically drove urban growth and economic change.

 

Question 4. The British arrived India for
(a) for trading
(b) for preaching their religion
(c) for working
(d) for ruling
Answer: (a) for trading
In simple words: The British first came to India to buy and sell goods. They wanted to trade for spices, textiles, and other items from India. This trade helped them grow very rich and powerful.

🎯 Exam Tip: Focus on the primary reason for European arrival in India, which was initially trade, leading later to political control.

 

Question 5. Fort St. George was constructed by the British in
(a) Bombay
(b) Cuddalore
(c) Madras
(d) Calcutta
Answer: (c) Madras
In simple words: The British built Fort St. George in the city of Madras. This fort was an important place for their trade and military activities. It helped them protect their interests in the region.

🎯 Exam Tip: Memorize the locations of important forts and settlements established by European powers, as these are common historical facts.

 

Question 6. Which of the following port was the East India Company's principal settlement until 1774?
(a) Fort William
(b) Fort St. David
(c) Fort St. George
(d) None of the options
Answer: (c) Fort St. George
In simple words: Fort St. George was the main base for the East India Company until 1774. It served as their most important trading and administrative center. This shows its significant role in early British colonial presence.

🎯 Exam Tip: Note the timeline and the shift in importance of different British settlements, as the principal settlement could change over time.

II. Fill In The Blanks.

 

Question 1. The network of railroads in India was introduced in ................ 1853
Answer: 1853
In simple words: Railways started in India in the year 1853. This was a big step for transport and helped connect different parts of the country.

🎯 Exam Tip: Exact dates for major historical introductions like railways are crucial for fill-in-the-blanks questions.

 

Question 2. ................ rightly regarded as the Father of Local Self – Government in India.
Answer: Lord Ripon
In simple words: Lord Ripon is known as the father of local self-government in India. He introduced systems that allowed local people to manage their own affairs more.

🎯 Exam Tip: Recognize key historical figures and their significant contributions, like Lord Ripon's role in local self-government.

 

Question 3. The Government of India Act of 1919 introduced ................ in the provinces.
Answer: Dyarchy
In simple words: The Act of 1919 brought a new system called Dyarchy to the provinces. This meant that some powers were given to Indian ministers, while others remained with the British.

🎯 Exam Tip: Understand the key features and terms introduced by important acts like the Government of India Act of 1919.

 

Question 4. ................ was responsible for the formation of the corporation.
Answer: Sis Josiah child
In simple words: Sis Josiah Child played a role in setting up the corporation. This was important for organizing trade and business activities.

🎯 Exam Tip: Identify the names associated with the establishment of early administrative and commercial bodies.

 

Question 5. Francis Day and Andrew Cogan got permission to establish a factory cum trading post at Madrasapatnam in ................
Answer: 1639
In simple words: Francis Day and Andrew Cogan received permission to build a factory and trading center in Madrasapatnam in 1639. This marked an important step in the British presence in the region.

🎯 Exam Tip: Specific dates for founding settlements or receiving permissions are important factual details in history questions.

III. Match The Following.

Answer:

In simple words: This table correctly matches each item on the left with its proper description or example on the right. For example, Bombay is known for its original seven islands, and Kanpur is an example of a cantonment town.

🎯 Exam Tip: For match-the-following questions, always match the most obvious pairs first, then use the process of elimination for the remaining items.

IV. State True Or False.

 

Question 1. Towns flourished since pre-historic times in India.
Answer: True
In simple words: Yes, cities and towns have existed in India since very ancient times, even before recorded history. This shows a long history of human settlement and civilization.

🎯 Exam Tip: Understand the historical depth of urban settlements in India, recognizing that urbanization is not a recent phenomenon.

 

Question 2. British acquired political control after the Battle of Plassey.
Answer: True
In simple words: The British gained important political power after winning the Battle of Plassey. This battle was a turning point, making the British a strong force in India.

🎯 Exam Tip: The Battle of Plassey (1757) is a crucial event marking the beginning of significant British political dominance in India.

 

Question 3. Fort William is in Madras.
Answer: False
In simple words: Fort William is not located in Madras; it is in Calcutta. It was another important British fort, but in a different city.

🎯 Exam Tip: Distinguish between the locations of major British forts and settlements to avoid common errors.

 

Question 4. Army people began to live in cantonments.
Answer: True
In simple words: Yes, army personnel started living in special areas called cantonments. These areas were built for military housing and training.

🎯 Exam Tip: Remember the purpose and characteristic features of cantonment towns, which were distinct military settlements.

 

Question 5. Madras was officially renamed as Chennai in 1998.
Answer: False
In simple words: Madras was officially renamed as Chennai, but this happened in 1996, not 1998. It was a significant change to reflect local identity.

🎯 Exam Tip: Be precise with dates for significant historical events like renaming cities, as small date errors can lead to incorrect answers.

V. Choose The Correct Statement.

 

Question 1. Assertion : India became the agricultural colony of Britain. Reason: The one-way free trade policy followed by British and the Industrial revolution destroyed Indian indigenous industries.
(a) A is correct and R is Wrong
(b) A is wrong and R is Correct
(c) A is correct and R explains A
(d) A is correct and R does not explain A
Answer: (c) A is correct and R explains A
In simple words: India became an agricultural colony because British trade policies and the Industrial Revolution harmed Indian industries. This meant India mostly supplied raw materials to Britain.

🎯 Exam Tip: In Assertion-Reason questions, first check if both statements are true individually, then evaluate if the Reason correctly explains the Assertion.

 

Question 2. Which of the following statements) is/are not true?
(i) Srirangarayalu gave the English the grant of Madrasapatnam.
(ii) Day and Cogan were jointly responsible for the construction of Fort St. George.
(iii) In 1969 the state of Madras was rechristened as Tamil Nadu
(a) i only
(b) i and ii
(c) ii and iii
(d) iii only
Answer: (c) ii and iii
In simple words: Statements (ii) and (iii) are not true. Day and Cogan were involved in acquiring the land, but not jointly responsible for constructing Fort St. George itself in the way implied. Also, the state of Madras was renamed Tamil Nadu in 1969.

🎯 Exam Tip: When identifying untrue statements, carefully review each point against your knowledge of facts and dates to avoid confusion.

 

Question 3. Assertion: British built up their alternative capitals in hilly areas. Reason: They found the Indian summer inhospitable.
(a) A is correct and R is Wrong
(b) A is wrong and R is Correct
(c) A is correct and R explains A
(d) A is correct and R does not explain A
Answer: (c) A is correct and R explains A
In simple words: The British built hill stations as their summer capitals because they found the hot Indian plains unbearable in summer. This helped them escape the heat and maintain their health.

🎯 Exam Tip: For Assertion-Reason type questions, identify the cause-and-effect relationship. If the reason directly explains the assertion, it's the correct option.

VI. Answer The Following In One Or Two Sentences.

 

Question 1. What is an urban area?
Answer: An urban area is a place with many people living close together. Most people in urban areas work in jobs other than farming, and they live in many buildings. These areas often have a lot of services and infrastructure.
In simple words: An urban area is a city or town where many people live, work in non-farming jobs, and there are many buildings.

🎯 Exam Tip: Focus on the key characteristics of urban areas: high population density, non-agricultural occupations, and a built environment.

 

Question 2. Hilly areas were distinctive features of colonial urban development. Why?
Answer: Hilly areas were special because they had cooler weather, unlike the hot plains. The British visited these places for specific reasons, like escaping the heat or for strategic military purposes. These hill stations became important retreats.
In simple words: Hilly areas were special for the British because they were cooler and helped them escape the hot Indian summers.

🎯 Exam Tip: When asked "Why," provide the main reasons clearly. In this case, the climate and strategic needs were key factors.

 

Question 3. Name the three Presidency cities?
Answer: The three Presidency cities that grew important in the late 18th century were Calcutta, Bombay, and Madras. These cities served as major administrative and trading centers for the British.
In simple words: The three main Presidency cities were Calcutta, Bombay, and Madras.

🎯 Exam Tip: Always list all required items for a question asking to "Name" them, ensuring accuracy.

 

Question 4. State any four reasons for the new trend of urbanization in the 19th century.
Answer: There were several reasons for new urban growth in the 19th century:

• Opening of the Suez Canal, which made sea travel shorter.
• Introduction of steam navigation, speeding up transport.
• Growth of banking, providing financial support for trade.
• Expansion of shipping and insurance services, supporting global commerce.

These developments made cities more connected and economically active.
In simple words: New city growth in the 1800s happened because the Suez Canal opened, steamships started, banks grew, and shipping services expanded.

🎯 Exam Tip: When listing reasons, use clear bullet points to make your answer easy to read and comprehensive.

 

Question 5. Write a short note on Cantonment towns.
Answer: Cantonment towns were special settlements built by the British mainly for their military. The British needed strong military camps, so they set up these towns where army people could live and work. Over time, these military settlements grew into proper cities, like Kanpur and Lahore.
In simple words: Cantonment towns were places built by the British for their army. They were military bases that later grew into cities like Kanpur.

🎯 Exam Tip: Define the term, explain its purpose, and provide relevant examples to make your short note complete.

 

Question 6. What were the regions covered in the Madras presidency during the British regime?
Answer: During the British rule, the Madras Presidency covered a large area. This included modern-day Tamil Nadu, Lakshadweep Island, Northern Kerala, Rayalaseema, Coastal Andhra, parts of Karnataka, and several districts of southern Odisha. It was a very big administrative region.
In simple words: The Madras Presidency covered a large area including Tamil Nadu, Lakshadweep, parts of Kerala, Andhra, Karnataka, and Odisha.

🎯 Exam Tip: Remember to list all the significant regions or states that were part of a larger historical administrative unit like a Presidency.

VII. Answer The Following In Detail.

 

Question 1. Describe colonial urban development.
Answer: Colonial urban development in India saw the growth of different types of cities under British rule:
(i) Port cities:

• The British came to India for trade, and cities like Madras, Calcutta, and Bombay became key ports.
• These cities were vital for trade and grew into big commercial hubs with European-style buildings.
• Fort St. George in Madras and Fort St. William in Calcutta are prime examples of these fortified port cities.

(ii) Cantonment towns:

• As the British gained military and political control, they needed strong army camps.
• They established cantonments for their military forces, which later grew into cities like Kanpur and Lahore.

(iii) Hill Stations:

• Hill stations were a unique feature of colonial urban growth.
• Though some existed before, the British founded many new ones with small populations, mainly to escape the hot Indian summers for specific purposes.
• Srinagar (a Mughal center) and religious sites like Kedarnath and Badrinath were also sometimes used for recreation.

(iv) Railway towns:

• Railway towns were a new type of urban settlement, established after railways started in 1853.
• These towns were usually located on the plains, centered around railway transport links.

These different types of cities show how British needs shaped urban growth in India.
In simple words: Colonial urban development created port cities for trade, cantonment towns for the army, cool hill stations for rest, and railway towns for transport. Each type served a different British need.

🎯 Exam Tip: For descriptive answers with multiple categories, organize your points clearly with sub-headings or bullet points to ensure all aspects are covered logically.

 

Question 2. Trace the origin and growth of Madras.
Answer: The city of Madras, now Chennai, has a rich history of origin and growth:

• The English East India Company was started in 1600.
• When a famine hit Masulipatnam, the English looked for a new place to settle.
• Francis Day chose Madrasapatnam in 1637 and set up a factory there.
• In 1639, Francis Day and Andrew Cogan signed a deed to establish a factory and trading port, which was then fortified and named Fort St. George.
• Fort St. George became known as the "white town," while the nearby Indian villages were collectively called the "Black town." Together, these areas formed Madras.

This shows how a trading post grew into a major colonial city.
In simple words: Madras started when Francis Day set up a factory in Madrasapatnam in 1637. It grew around Fort St. George and became a big trading city, combining "white town" and "Black town" areas.

🎯 Exam Tip: When tracing origin and growth, ensure you include key individuals, dates, and significant events that contributed to the city's development.

 

Question 3. India became an agricultural colony of Britain. How?
Answer: India became an agricultural colony of Britain due to several British policies and economic changes:
1. At first, British policies negatively affected the growth of cities in India.
2. Later, British economic policies changed India's economy into one that served the needs of the colonizers, transforming its cities.
3. The British promoted a one-way free trade policy, which largely destroyed Indian manufacturing industries.
4. This led to a sudden collapse of India's urban handicrafts industry, which was once very strong.
5. Towns and cities famous for their special products found their markets shrinking continuously.
6. Many manufacturing towns lost their previous importance as centers of production.
7. The Industrial Revolution in Britain, along with high import duties and restrictions on Indian goods in Europe, further led to the decline of Indian industries.
8. As a result, India was forced to become an agricultural colony, mainly supplying raw materials and food to Britain.
These factors collectively ensured India's economy was reoriented to benefit Britain.
In simple words: India became an agricultural colony because British trade rules hurt Indian industries, leading to a decline in local manufacturing and forcing India to mainly supply farm products to Britain.

🎯 Exam Tip: When explaining a complex historical process like "how" a country became a colony, break down your answer into clear, numbered points to cover all contributing factors.

Samacheer Kalvi 8th Social Science Urban Changes During The British Period Additional Important Questions And Answers

I. Choose The Correct Answer.

 

Question 1. ................ was an alternative capital for Calcutta.
(a) Dehradun
(b) Darjeeling
(c) Shimla
(d) Bombay
Answer: (b) Darjeeling
In simple words: Darjeeling was used as a second capital for Calcutta. It was a hill station where officials could go to escape the summer heat.

🎯 Exam Tip: Recognize important hill stations and their administrative connections to major cities during the British period.

 

Question 2. ................ was founded during the Gurkha war.
(a) Dehradun
(b) Delhi
(c) Shimla
(d) Bombay
Answer: (c) Shimla
In simple words: Shimla was established during the Gurkha war. It later became a famous hill station and summer capital.

🎯 Exam Tip: Link the establishment of certain hill stations with specific historical events or conflicts like the Gurkha War.

 

Question 3. ................ established municipal administration in the three presidency towns.
(a) The Character Act of 1793
(b) The Character Act of 1773
(c) The Character Act of 1813
(d) The Character Act of 1833
Answer: (a) The Character Act of 1793
In simple words: The Character Act of 1793 set up municipal governance in the three main presidency cities. This law helped organize how these big cities were run.

🎯 Exam Tip: Be careful with similar-sounding acts and their specific dates and provisions, as these are often tested.

 

Question 4. The English East India Company was started in AD.
(a) 1600
(b) 1500
(c) 1556
(d) 1608
Answer: (a) 1600
In simple words: The English East India Company began in the year 1600. This company played a huge role in British trade and rule in India.

🎯 Exam Tip: Exact founding dates of major historical organizations are important facts to remember.

 

Question 5. ................ is the power centre of the Tamilnadu state government.
(a) Fort St. George
(b) Fort St. William
(c) Fort St. David
(d) None of the options
Answer: (a) Fort St. George
In simple words: Fort St. George is the place from where the Tamil Nadu state government operates. It has a long history as an administrative center.

🎯 Exam Tip: Connect historical landmarks with their modern significance or administrative functions.

 

Question 6. The white and Black towns were collectively called ................
(a) Madras
(b) Delhi
(c) Shimla
(d) Bombay
Answer: (a) Madras
In simple words: The "white town" where Europeans lived and the "Black town" where local people lived were together called Madras. This term reflected the segregated nature of colonial cities.

🎯 Exam Tip: Understand the socio-geographic divisions of colonial cities, such as the "white town" and "Black town" concepts.

 

Question 7. Madras was the East India Companys principal settlement until ................
(a) 1664
(b) 1774
(c) 1556
(d) 1600
Answer: (b) 1774
In simple words: Madras was the main settlement for the East India Company until the year 1774. After this, Calcutta became the new main center.

🎯 Exam Tip: Pay attention to dates that mark transitions or changes in importance of colonial settlements.

 

Question 8. A town or district that has local government is ................
(a) Municipality
(b) corporation
(c) Panchayat
(d) None of the options
Answer: (a) Municipality
In simple words: A municipality is a town or area that has its own local government. This government helps manage local services and rules for the people living there.

🎯 Exam Tip: Know the definitions of different types of local government bodies and the areas they manage.

 

Question 9. The chief of the Masulipatnam factor, ................
(a) Andrew cogon
(b) Francis
(c) David
(d) Jar
Answer: (a) Andrew Cogan
In simple words: Andrew Cogan was in charge of the trading post, or 'factor,' in Masulipatnam. He was an important British official in that area.

🎯 Exam Tip: Identify key individuals associated with specific British trading posts or factories in early colonial history.

 

Question 10. Making of Chennai in the year ................
(a) 1640
(b) 1641
(c) 1638
(d) 1639
Answer: (d) 1639
In simple words: Chennai, or Madras, was established in the year 1639. This year marks the beginning of the city's modern history.

🎯 Exam Tip: Be precise with the founding dates of important cities, as they are often tested as specific facts.

II. Fill In The Blanks.

 

Question 1. The introduction of the railways resulted in the diversion of ................
Answer: trade routes
In simple words: When railways were built, old trade paths changed. Goods started moving by train instead of traditional routes.

🎯 Exam Tip: Consider the widespread impact of new technologies like railways on existing systems, such as trade and transportation.

 

Question 2. The Presidency cities were earlier ................ Villages.
Answer: fishing and wearing
In simple words: The big Presidency cities we know today were once small villages focused on fishing and making clothes. They grew much larger over time.

🎯 Exam Tip: Understand the transformation of small villages with traditional occupations into major urban centers under colonial rule.

 

Question 3. The port cities became prominent commercial areas with fall ................ buildings.
Answer: European-styled
In simple words: Port cities grew into important business areas with buildings designed in a European style. This architecture reflected the presence and influence of the British.

🎯 Exam Tip: Connect the architectural styles of colonial-era cities with the influence of the European powers who built them.

 

Question 4. The ................ were an entirely new kind of urban centre.
Answer: containment
In simple words: The cantonment towns were a completely new type of city. They were built for military purposes and designed differently from traditional Indian towns.

🎯 Exam Tip: Be able to identify unique types of urban settlements that emerged during the colonial period.

 

Question 5. ................ was a Mughal recreational centre.
Answer: Srinagar
In simple words: Srinagar was a leisure spot for the Mughal rulers. They enjoyed its beauty and cool climate.

🎯 Exam Tip: Recall examples of places that served as recreational centers for different historical empires or rulers.

 

Question 6. ................ and ................ were Hindu religious centres.
Answer: Kedarnath, Badrinath
In simple words: Kedarnath and Badrinath are important holy places for Hindus. People go there for religious reasons and prayers.

🎯 Exam Tip: Name key religious pilgrimage sites that hold historical and cultural significance in India.

 

Question 7. ................ was an alternative capital for Calcutta.
Answer: Darjeeling
In simple words: Darjeeling served as a summer capital for Calcutta. It was a cooler place for British officials during hot weather.

🎯 Exam Tip: Remember specific examples of alternate capitals or hill stations associated with major colonial cities.

 

Question 8. ................ was an alternative for Delhi.
Answer: Dehradun
In simple words: Dehradun was an alternative place for Delhi. It provided a different climate and setting compared to the main capital.

🎯 Exam Tip: Be aware of various alternative administrative centers that existed during different historical periods.

 

Question 9. ................ was founded during the ................ war.
Answer: Simla, Gurkha
In simple words: Simla was founded when the Gurkha war was happening. This conflict influenced the establishment of new strategic locations.

🎯 Exam Tip: Connect the founding of certain places with specific historical wars or conflicts.

 

Question 10. The chief of the Armagon factors was ................
Answer: Francis Day
In simple words: Francis Day was the head of the Armagon trading post. He was a key figure in early British trade in the region.

🎯 Exam Tip: Identify important individuals who led trading factories or settlements for European companies.

 

Question 11. The Government of India 1935 introduced ................
Answer: Provincial Autonomy
In simple words: The Government of India Act of 1935 introduced Provincial Autonomy. This meant that provinces gained more self-rule and control over their affairs.

🎯 Exam Tip: Understand the major reforms introduced by significant acts like the Government of India Act of 1935.

 

Question 12. The official interpreter of chandragiri was ................
Answer: Beri Thimmappa
In simple words: Beri Thimmappa was the official who translated for Chandragiri. Interpreters were important for communication between different groups.

🎯 Exam Tip: Remember key figures who played important roles in communication and diplomacy during colonial interactions.

 

Question 13. ................ was well protected from monsoon winds.
Answer: Masulipatnam
In simple words: Masulipatnam was a place that was naturally safe from strong monsoon winds. This made it a good location for a port.

🎯 Exam Tip: Consider the geographical advantages that made certain locations suitable for specific activities like trade or settlement.

 

Question 14. In 1690, the English merchants founded a settlement at ................
Answer: Sultanate
In simple words: English traders set up a new settlement in Sultanate in 1690. This was part of their efforts to expand their trading network.

🎯 Exam Tip: Note the dates and locations of English merchant settlements, as these mark the expansion of their influence.

 

Question 15. Srirangarayalu issued a new grant to English in 1645 called ................
Answer: Srirangarayapatnam
In simple words: Srirangarayalu gave a new official permission to the English in 1645, which was known as Srirangarayapatnam. This grant allowed them more privileges.

🎯 Exam Tip: Pay attention to grants and permissions given by local rulers to European trading companies, as these were crucial for their growth.

III. Match The Following.

IV. State True or False.

 

Question 1. Towns flourished since pre-historic times in India.
Answer: True
In simple words: Yes, towns existed and were thriving in India even before recorded history. Ancient places like Harappa and Mohenjadaro are good examples of this.

🎯 Exam Tip: Remember key examples of ancient civilizations like the Indus Valley Civilization to support answers about early urban development.

 

Question 2. British acquired political control after the Battle of Plassey.
Answer: True
In simple words: The British gained power over India after the Battle of Plassey. This battle helped them start controlling the country politically.

🎯 Exam Tip: The Battle of Plassey is a crucial turning point in Indian history, marking the beginning of significant British political dominance.

 

Question 3. Bombay was initially six islands.
Answer: False
In simple words: Bombay was first made up of seven separate islands. Over time, these islands were joined together to form one large landmass.

🎯 Exam Tip: Pay attention to specific numbers and details, as they can often be changed to create false statements in True/False questions.

 

Question 4. The company established Fort William at Calcutta.
Answer: True
In simple words: The East India Company did build a fort named Fort William in Calcutta. This fort was important for their trade and defense in the region.

🎯 Exam Tip: Knowing the locations of key forts helps in understanding the strategic importance of various cities during colonial times.

 

Question 5. Chennai was once a group of villages.
Answer: True
In simple words: Yes, Chennai started as several small villages. It later grew and merged into the big city we know today.

🎯 Exam Tip: Many large cities began as smaller settlements, growing over time through mergers and development. Chennai is a classic example.

V. Choose the Correct Statement.

 

Question 1. Which of the following statement(s) is/are not true?
(i) Harappa, Mohenjadaro, Varanasi, Allahabad, and Madurai are well- known modern towns.
(ii) Delhi, Hyderabad, Jaipur, Lucknow, Agra, and Nagpur are fort city or port city.
(iii) Mumbai, Chennai, and Kolkatta as the administrative headquarters and trading centres.
(a) i only
(b) i and ii
(c) ii and iii
(d) iii only
Answer: (b) i and ii
In simple words: The first two statements are not true. Harappa and Mohenjadaro are ancient cities, not modern ones. Also, cities like Delhi, Hyderabad, and others mentioned were not just fort or port cities; they had many other important roles. It's crucial to understand the different characteristics of towns across historical periods.

🎯 Exam Tip: When evaluating statements, break them down part by part to identify any inaccuracies. A single incorrect detail can make an entire statement false.

 

Question 2. Assertion: The British occupied the Indian territory and political power by their military force. Reason: They needed strong military camps and established the cantonments.
(a) A is correct and R is Wrong
(b) A is wrong and R is Correct
(c) A is correct and R explains A
(d) A is correct and R does not explain A
Answer: (c) A is correct and R explains A
In simple words: The Assertion is true because the British did use their army to take control of India. The Reason is also true and it explains why the Assertion happened, as they needed military bases (cantonments) to maintain their power and control. Having strong military presence was key to their imperial strategy.

🎯 Exam Tip: For Assertion-Reason questions, first check if both statements are individually true. Then, determine if the Reason directly explains the Assertion using phrases like "because" or "as a result of".

 

Question 3. Which of the following statements are true?
(i) Bombay was initially seven islands. It was under the control of the Portuguese from 1534 onwards.
(ii) Charles II of England King leased it to the East India Company.
(iii) The English East India Company transferred its headquarters from Calcutta to Bombay.
(a) i only
(b) i and ii
(c) ii and iii
(d) iii only
Answer: (b) i and ii
In simple words: The first two statements are correct. Bombay was indeed made of seven islands and controlled by the Portuguese from 1534. King Charles II later rented it out to the East India Company. However, the company's headquarters were moved from Surat to Bombay, not from Calcutta.

🎯 Exam Tip: Carefully read multi-statement questions. Each part needs to be evaluated for its accuracy to choose the correct combination.

VI. Answer the Following in One or Two Sentences.

 

Question 1. Name a few ancient towns of India.
Answer: Some ancient towns in India include Harappa, Mohenjadaro, Varanasi, Allahabad, and Madurai. These cities have long histories that go back many centuries.
In simple words: Harappa, Mohenjadaro, Varanasi, Allahabad, and Madurai are some old towns in India.

🎯 Exam Tip: When asked for examples, try to list a variety to show broader knowledge, if possible.

 

Question 2. What are the fort cities in the Medieval towns of India.
Answer: Fort cities in Medieval India include Delhi, Hyderabad, Jaipur, Lucknow, Agra, and Nagpur. These cities were often built around strong forts for defense and administration.
In simple words: Delhi, Hyderabad, Jaipur, Lucknow, Agra, and Nagpur were some fort cities in Medieval India.

🎯 Exam Tip: Fort cities were strategic centers, indicating their military and administrative importance in history.

 

Question 3. Name the coastal town which was developed first.
Answer: Coastal towns like Surat, Daman, Goa, and Pondicherry were among the first to be developed. These places were important for sea trade from early times.
In simple words: Surat, Daman, Goa, and Pondicherry were among the first coastal towns to develop.

🎯 Exam Tip: Coastal towns were crucial for trade and interaction with other countries, making them early centers of development.

 

Question 4. Mention a few manufacturing towns which lost importance because of de-industrialisation.
Answer: Manufacturing towns that lost their importance due to de-industrialisation include Dacca, Murshidabad, Surat, and Lucknow. As local industries declined, these towns also suffered economically.
In simple words: Dacca, Murshidabad, Surat, and Lucknow were manufacturing towns that became less important when local industries were shut down.

🎯 Exam Tip: De-industrialisation led to the decline of many traditional Indian manufacturing centers during the British colonial period.

 

Question 5. What are Presidency cities?
Answer: Presidency cities were major administrative centers established by the British in colonial India. The three main ones were Calcutta, Bombay, and Chennai, which served as important hubs for British rule.
In simple words: Presidency cities were big cities like Calcutta, Bombay, and Chennai, where the British set up their main offices to manage India.

🎯 Exam Tip: The Presidency cities were the key centers of British power, economy, and culture in India.

 

Question 6. How were Hill stations useful for the Britishers?
Answer: Hill stations were useful for the British as strategic locations for stationing troops, protecting borders, and planning military operations. They also served as places for European officials to escape the heat of the plains.
In simple words: Hill stations helped the British keep their soldiers, guard borders, and plan army actions. They were also cooler places for British officers to live.

🎯 Exam Tip: Hill stations provided both strategic military advantages and a comfortable environment for British officials in India.

 

Question 7. What does the term 'Sanatoriums' mean?
Answer: 'Sanatoriums' are places designed for soldiers to rest and recover from illnesses. These establishments offered a healing environment, often in peaceful locations away from active duty.
In simple words: Sanatoriums are places where soldiers can go to rest and get better when they are sick.

🎯 Exam Tip: Understanding terms like 'sanatoriums' provides insight into the infrastructure supporting colonial military and health needs.

VII. Answer the Following in Detail.

 

Question 1. What do you know about Bombay.
Answer:

• Bombay began as a group of seven islands, which were under Portuguese control starting from 1534.
• In 1661, the Portuguese King gave Bombay as a gift to Charles II of England as part of a marriage dowry.
• Charles II then leased these islands to the East India Company.
• The city of Bombay started to grow when the Company made it their main port.
• By 1687, the Company moved its main office from Surat to Bombay, further increasing its importance. Bombay's natural harbor made it ideal for shipping and trade.

In simple words: Bombay started as seven islands owned by Portugal. In 1661, the Portuguese king gave it to the English king, who then rented it to the East India Company. The city grew bigger when the Company made it their main port and moved their main office there in 1687.

🎯 Exam Tip: When describing the origin and growth of cities, mention key events like acquisitions, changes in administration, and economic factors.

 

Question 2. How did Calcutta become a Presidency city in India?
Answer:

• In 1690, English merchants established a settlement at Sultanate, which was the beginning of Calcutta's development.
• By 1698, the English gained zamindari rights over three villages: Sutanuti, Calcutta, and Gobindpur, which helped consolidate their land holdings.
• The East India Company then built Fort William in Calcutta, making it a strong base.
• As a result, Calcutta became a Presidency city, governed by a Governor and a Council, which managed its affairs. This made Calcutta a powerful center of British administration and trade in India.

In simple words: Calcutta became a Presidency city when English traders set up a settlement there in 1690. They gained control over nearby villages and built Fort William. After this, Calcutta was managed by a Governor and Council, becoming a key British city.

🎯 Exam Tip: Highlight the role of trade, military fortification, and administrative structure when explaining how a city became a significant colonial center.