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All questions of The Age of Industrialisation for Class 10 Exam

What did the term ‘Orient’ refer to?
  • a)
    England
  • b)
    Asia
  • c)
    Russia
  • d)
    America 
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

Amit Sharma answered
  • The Orient is a historical term for the East, traditionally comprising anything that belongs to the Eastern world, in relation to Europe. It is the antonym of Occident, the Western World.
  • The Orient is an old-fashioned name for Asia.

Assertion: ‘Dawn of the century was published by ET Paul Music Co.
Reason: It glorified machine and technology.
  • a)
    Both A and R are true and R is the correct explanation of A
  • b)
    Both A and R are true but R is not the correct explanation of A
  • c)
    A is correct but R is wrong
  • d)
    A is wrong but R is correct
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

Krishna Iyer answered
Correct Answer :- C
Explanation : 1.The cover page of a music book a published by E. T. Paul in 1900 shows the sign of progress as the picture of railway, camera, machines, printing press and factory.
2. The glorification of machines and technology is even more marked on the cover page of a trade magazine.
Both the statements are correct but R is not the correction explanation of A.

From which of the following trade did the early entrepreneurs make a fortune?
  • a)
    Textile trade
  • b)
    China trade
  • c)
    Trade in tea
  • d)
    Industries
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

Early Entrepreneurs and China Trade

- Early entrepreneurs made a fortune from China trade.
- China was an important trading partner for many countries including Britain and America.
- The China trade refers to the trade between China and the rest of the world, which was mainly focused on tea, silk, porcelain, and spices.
- The early entrepreneurs were involved in trading these goods between China and the western countries.
- They established trading companies, such as the British East India Company and the Dutch East India Company, to facilitate the trade with China and other Asian countries.
- These companies had a monopoly on the trade with China and were able to make huge profits from the sale of tea, silk, and other goods in Europe and America.
- The early entrepreneurs also played a key role in introducing Chinese tea and porcelain to the western world, which became very popular and valuable commodities.
- The China trade was a major contributor to the growth of the global economy and the development of international trade.
- The early entrepreneurs who were involved in the China trade became very wealthy and influential, and their success inspired others to follow in their footsteps and explore new opportunities for trade and commerce.

Which among these was a pre-colonial seaport?
  • a)
    Vishakhapatnam
  • b)
    Chennai
  • c)
    Hoogly
  • d)
    Cochin 
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

Ananya Das answered
  • Hoogly, Surat and Masulispatnam are the three pre-colonial ports of India.
  • Surat on the Gujarat coast connected India to the gulf and red seaports. Masulipatam on the coromandel coast.
  • Hoogly in Bengal had trade links with Southeast Asian ports.

Assertion: The East Indian Company appointed ‘gomastha’.
Reason: To get new recruits
  • a)
    Both A and R are true and R is the correct explanation of A
  • b)
    Both A and R are true but R is not the correct explanation of A
  • c)
    A is correct but R is wrong
  • d)
    A is wrong but R is correct
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

Arun Sharma answered
The East India Company appointed gomasthas to supervise weavers in India to establish a more direct control over the weavers, free of the existing traders and brokers in the cloth trade. The Gomasthas were the paid servants who supervised the weavers,collected supplies and examined the quality of cloth.

Why did the weavers suffer from a problem of raw cotton?
  • a)
    The cotton crop perished
  • b)
    Raw cotton exports increased
  • c)
    Local markets shrank
  • d)
    Export market collapsed
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

The weavers suffered from a problem of raw cotton because of the following reason:

Increase in Raw Cotton Exports
- British colonial policy encouraged the cultivation of raw cotton in India for export to Britain's textile mills.
- This led to an increase in the export of raw cotton, which resulted in a shortage of raw cotton for local weavers.

Impact on Weavers
- With a shortage of raw cotton, weavers had to pay higher prices for the raw material they needed to produce their textiles.
- This made it difficult for them to compete with the cheaper textiles produced in Britain's mills.

Loss of Livelihoods
- As the demand for locally produced textiles declined, many weavers lost their livelihoods.
- This led to widespread poverty and forced many weavers to migrate to other areas in search of work.

Conclusion
- The problem of raw cotton was a major factor in the decline of the handloom industry in India during the colonial period.
- It highlights how colonial policies and economic structures can have a profound impact on local industries and livelihoods.

Which is the pioneer country in industrialisation?
  • a)
    Russia
  • b)
    India
  • c)
    England
  • d)
    None of these
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

Rohit Sharma answered
  • England (Britain) was the first country to industrialize because it had resources that included coal, water, iron ore, rivers, harbors, and banks.
  • Britain also had all the factors of production that the Industrial Revolution required. These factors of production included land, labor (workers), and capital (wealth).

Who was a ‘Jobber’?
  • a)
    Trusted worker
  • b)
    Painter
  • c)
    Dancer
  • d)
    Soldier
Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

Harsh Sharma answered
I'm sorry, your sentence is incomplete. Could you please provide more information or context?

What do you mean by the orient? Which of the following meaning is correct?
  • a)
    The countries to the west of the Indian Ocean
  • b)
    The countries to the east of the Mediterranean sea
  • c)
    The countries to the west of the Pacific Ocean
  • d)
    The countries east of the Red Sea
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

Sagarika Nair answered
Explanation:

The Orient Definition:
The term "the Orient" traditionally refers to the countries to the east of the Mediterranean Sea. This includes countries in Asia such as China, Japan, India, and other countries in that region.

Historical Context:
The term has its origins in European colonial times when Western powers viewed these Eastern countries as exotic and mysterious. It was often used to refer to the culture, traditions, and people of these regions.

Cultural Significance:
The concept of the Orient has been the subject of much study and debate in cultural studies and postcolonial theory. It has been criticized for perpetuating stereotypes and Eurocentric views of Eastern cultures.

Geographical Reference:
While the term "the Orient" is no longer commonly used in academic or geopolitical contexts, it is still sometimes used in a more general sense to refer to countries in Asia and the Middle East.

Conclusion:
In summary, the correct meaning of the Orient is the countries to the east of the Mediterranean Sea, encompassing a diverse range of cultures and societies in Asia and the Middle East.

Who devised the Spinning Jenny?
  • a)
    Samual Luck
  • b)
    Richard Arkwright
  • c)
    James Hargreaves
  • d)
    James Watt
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

Sagar chauhan answered
The correct answer is option 'C', James Hargreaves.

James Hargreaves, an English weaver and carpenter, devised the Spinning Jenny in the late 1760s. The Spinning Jenny was an important invention in the textile industry and played a significant role in the Industrial Revolution.

Below are the details explaining James Hargreaves' role in devising the Spinning Jenny:

1. Background:
- In the 18th century, the demand for cotton textiles was increasing rapidly, but the existing methods of spinning yarn were time-consuming and inefficient.
- Prior to the Spinning Jenny, spinning yarn was done using a spinning wheel, which required significant manual effort and could only produce one thread at a time.

2. Invention of the Spinning Jenny:
- James Hargreaves, who was both a weaver and a carpenter, observed the limitations of the spinning wheel and sought to find a solution.
- In the late 1760s, he developed a machine that could spin multiple threads at once, which he named the Spinning Jenny.
- The Spinning Jenny was a hand-powered machine consisting of a simple frame with multiple spindles and a single wheel.
- By turning the wheel, the operator could simultaneously spin up to eight threads, significantly increasing the productivity of yarn production.

3. Impact and Significance:
- The Spinning Jenny revolutionized the textile industry by increasing the speed and efficiency of yarn production.
- It allowed for the production of multiple threads simultaneously, reducing the labor required and increasing productivity.
- The invention of the Spinning Jenny was a significant step towards mechanization in the textile industry and played a crucial role in the Industrial Revolution.
- The increased production of yarn provided the necessary raw material for the subsequent development of mechanized weaving machines, further transforming the textile industry.

In conclusion, James Hargreaves, an English weaver and carpenter, devised the Spinning Jenny in the late 1760s. This invention revolutionized the textile industry by enabling the simultaneous spinning of multiple threads and significantly increasing productivity. The Spinning Jenny played a crucial role in the Industrial Revolution and paved the way for further mechanization in the textile industry.

Where was the first cotton mill in India established?
  • a)
    Mumbai
  • b)
    Surat
  • c)
    Calcutta 
  • d)
    Kerala 
Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

Nk Classes answered
The first cotton textile mill in India was established in Mumbai in 1854. This marked the beginning of large-scale production of cotton textiles in India.

Analyse the information given below, considering one the following correct options:
The abundance of labour in the market affected the lives of workers. As news of possible jobs travelled to the countryside, hundreds tramped to the cities. The actual possibility of getting a job depended on existing networks of friendship and kin relations. If you had a relative or a friend in a factory, you were more likely to get a job quickly. But not everyone had social connections. Many jobseekers had to wait weeks, spending nights under bridges or in night shelters. Some stayed in Night Refuges that were set up by private individuals; others went to the casual wards maintained by the Poor Law authorities.
  • a)
    Abundance of labour
  • b)
    Life of the workers
  • c)
    Jobseekers
  • d)
    Employment of workers
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

Life of the workers:
The given information highlights the impact of the abundance of labor in the market on the lives of workers. It explains how the availability of jobs in the cities attracted numerous jobseekers from the countryside, leading to significant changes in the lives of workers.

Migration to cities:
The information mentions that as news of possible jobs spread to the countryside, hundreds of people migrated to the cities in search of employment opportunities. This influx of jobseekers indicates the desperation and determination of individuals to improve their lives.

Dependency on social connections:
The possibility of securing a job quickly was highly dependent on existing networks of friendship and kin relations. If jobseekers had relatives or friends working in factories, they had a higher chance of obtaining employment. This highlights the importance of social connections and nepotism in the job market during this period.

Challenges faced by jobseekers:
Not everyone had social connections, which meant that many jobseekers had to endure significant challenges in their search for employment. The information mentions that these individuals often had to wait for weeks, spending nights under bridges or in night shelters. This indicates the difficult living conditions and uncertainties faced by jobseekers during this time.

Night Refuges and casual wards:
To address the needs of jobseekers, both private individuals and the Poor Law authorities set up shelters. Private individuals established Night Refuges, providing temporary accommodation for those in need, while the Poor Law authorities maintained casual wards. These shelters provided some relief to jobseekers and helped mitigate the hardships they faced.

Overall, the given information emphasizes the impact of the abundance of labor on the lives of workers. It highlights the challenges faced by jobseekers, the importance of social connections in obtaining employment, and the existence of shelters to support those in need.

Who among the following was not associated with the steam engine?
  • a)
    James Watt
  • b)
    Newcomen
  • c)
    Matthew Boulton
  • d)
    James Hargreaves
Correct answer is option 'D'. Can you explain this answer?

Meha nair answered
Not Associated with Steam Engine

James Hargreaves was not associated with the steam engine. Let's understand the roles played by the other three:

James Watt

James Watt is known for making significant improvements to the steam engine. He worked on the design and improved its efficiency. He added a separate condenser that allowed the engine to use less fuel and produce more power. These improvements made the steam engine more practical and efficient, leading to its widespread use in various industries.

Newcomen

Thomas Newcomen is credited with inventing the first practical steam engine. His engine used steam to create a vacuum that pulled a piston down, which was then pushed back up by atmospheric pressure. Although not very efficient, his engine was used in coal mines to pump out water and improve mining conditions.

Matthew Boulton

Matthew Boulton was a business partner of James Watt. He provided the funding for Watt's steam engine improvements and helped to market and sell the engines. Boulton was a successful businessman who helped to bring the steam engine into widespread use, particularly in the textile industry.

Conclusion

James Hargreaves, on the other hand, was not associated with the steam engine. He was a weaver and inventor who developed the spinning jenny, a machine that revolutionized the textile industry by allowing workers to produce multiple threads at once.

Analyse the information given below, considering one the following correct options:
By the late nineteenth century, manufacturers were printing calendars to popularise their products. Unlike newspapers and magazines, calendars were used even by people who could not read. They were hung in tea shops and in poor people’s homes just as much as in offices and middle-class apartments. And those who hung the calendars had to see the advertisements, day after day, through the year. In these calendars, once again, we see the figures of Gods being used to sell new products. Like the images of gods, figures of important personages, of emperors and nawabs, adorned advertisement and calendars. The message very often seemed to say: if you respect the royal figure, then respect this product; when the product was being used by kings, or produced under Royal command, its quality could not be questioned.
  • a)
    Use of calendars
  • b)
    Use of advertisements
  • c)
    Use of images
  • d)
    Market for goods
Correct answer is option 'D'. Can you explain this answer?

Pragya shah answered
Analysis of the Use of Calendars in Advertising
The correct answer being option 'D'—Market for goods—highlights the significant role calendars played in promoting products during the late nineteenth century. Here’s a detailed explanation:
Widespread Use of Calendars
- Calendars were not limited to literate individuals; they reached a diverse audience, including those who could not read.
- They were prominently displayed in various locations, such as tea shops, poor households, offices, and middle-class apartments.
Constant Exposure to Advertisements
- Calendars provided continuous exposure to advertisements, as they were viewed daily throughout the year.
- This repeated visibility helped to reinforce brand messages and create a lasting impression on consumers.
Association with Authority and Quality
- The use of images of gods and important personages in calendars helped create a sense of trust and legitimacy around the products.
- The implied message was clear: if a product was associated with respected figures like emperors and nawabs, its quality was assured.
Impact on Consumer Behavior
- This marketing strategy targeted the emotions and beliefs of consumers, influencing their purchasing decisions.
- The integration of authority figures into advertisements helped establish a strong market presence for goods, leading to increased sales.
In summary, option 'D'—Market for goods—accurately captures the essence of how calendars were utilized as a powerful marketing tool to attract consumers and promote products. Their widespread display and the strategic use of imagery played a critical role in shaping consumer perceptions and behaviors.

Direction: Mark the Option Which Is Most Suitable:
Assertion : When Manchester industrialists began selling cloth in India, they put labels on the cloth bundles.
Reason : The label was a mark of Quality. When buyers saw ‘MADE IN MANCHESTER’ written in bold on the label, they were expected to feel confident about buying the cloth.
  • a)
    If both assertion and reason are true and reason is the correct explanation of assertion.
  • b)
    If both assertion and reason are true but reason is not the correct explanation of assertion.
  • c)
    If assertion is true but reason is false.
  • d)
    If both assertion and reason are false.
Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

Prabhat mehta answered
Assertion: When Manchester industrialists began selling cloth in India, they put labels on the cloth bundles.
Reason: The label was a mark of Quality. When buyers saw 'MADE IN MANCHESTER' written in bold on the label, they were expected to feel confident about buying the cloth.

Explanation:
Introduction:
During the colonial period, British industrialists began selling cloth in India. To establish their brand and promote their products, they started putting labels on the cloth bundles. The assertion states this fact. The reason given is that the label was a mark of quality and instilled confidence in the buyers.

Explanation of Assertion:
The assertion is true as it states a historical fact. The Manchester industrialists did put labels on the cloth bundles when they sold their products in India. This practice helped them establish their brand identity and differentiate their products from others in the market.

Explanation of Reason:
The reason given is also true. The label with 'MADE IN MANCHESTER' written in bold was indeed a mark of quality. The British industrialists wanted to assure the buyers that the cloth was of high quality and manufactured in Manchester, known for its textile industry. By prominently displaying this information on the label, they intended to create a perception of trust and confidence among the buyers.

Explanation of the Relationship:
The reason provided in the question is a correct explanation of the assertion. The labels on the cloth bundles served as a mark of quality, and the bold 'MADE IN MANCHESTER' text on the label was intended to instill confidence in the buyers. The label acted as a visual representation of the quality and origin of the cloth, and it played a crucial role in influencing the purchasing decisions of the buyers.

Conclusion:
Based on the explanation above, option 'A' is the correct answer. Both the assertion and the reason are true, and the reason is a correct explanation of the assertion. The practice of putting labels on cloth bundles by Manchester industrialists in India was indeed aimed at establishing their brand and assuring buyers of the quality of their products.

Arrange the following in the correct sequence:
(i) James Hargreaves invented the Spinning Jenny
(ii) James Watt patented the Steam Engine.
(iii) Richard Arkwright created the First Cotton Mill.
(iv) Matthew Boulton Manufactured the new model of Steam Engine.
  • a)
    (iv) - (i) - (iii) - (ii)
  • b)
    (i) - (iii) - (ii) - (iv)
  • c)
    (ii) - (iv) - (i) - (iii)
  • d)
    (iii) - (ii) - (iv) - (i)
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

Aditya Shah answered
Correct sequence is
(i) James Hargreaves invented the Spinning Jenny: The Spinning Jenny was invented in 1764 by James Hargreaves, a cotton weaver, from Oswaldtwistle, Lancashire.
(iii) Richard Arkwright created the First Cotton Mill: In 1771, Richard Arkwright along with three men opened the first cotton factory with some partners.
(ii) James Watt patented the Steam Engine: In 1765 Watt conceived of a separate condenser, a device to reduce the amount of waste produced by the Newcomen steam engine. Watt patented the device in 1769. In 1776 Watt and his business partner, Matthew Boulton, installed two steam engines with separate condensers.
(iv) Matthew Boulton Manufactured the new model of Steam Engine: Boulton foresaw great industrial demand for steam power and urged Watt to design the double-acting rotative engine, patented in 1782, and the Watt engine (1788) for driving the lapping machines at his factory.

Arrange the following in the correct sequence:
(i) J. N. Tata set up the first iron and steel plant in Jamshedpur.
(ii) Dwarkanath Tagore set up six joint stock companies in Bengal.
(iii) Seth Hukumchand set up the first jute mill in Calcutta.
(iv) Music Publisher E. T. Paull produced a music book.
  • a)
    (iv) - (i) - (ii) - (iii)
  • b)
    (i) - (iv) - (iii) - (ii)
  • c)
    (ii) - (iv) - (i) - (iii)
  • d)
    (iii) - (ii) - (iv) - (i)
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

Vikram Kapoor answered
(ii) Dwarkanath Tagore set up six joint stock companies in Bengal: Dwarkanath Tagore invested his money to set up six joint stock companies in 1830-1840, but they did not florish. Dwarkanath Tagore, one of the first Indian industrialists and entrepreneurs.
(iv) Music Publisher E. T. Paull produced a music book: Paull produced a music book that had a picture on the cover page announcing the 'Dawn of the Century' in which at the centre of the picture is a goddess-like figure, the angel of progress, bearing the flag of the new century.
(i) J. N. Tata set up the first iron and steel plant in Jamshedpur: Tata Iron and Steel Company or TISCO is the first iron and steel manufacturing plant in India which was founded and established by Jamsetji Tata and Dorabji Tata respectively on 26th August 1907 at Jamshedpur, Jharkhand.
(iii) Seth Hukumchand set up the first jute mill in Calcutta: The First jute mill was set up in calcutta in 1917 by a marwari businessman Seth Hukum chand. He established cotton mills ( Hukum Chand Mill and Raj kumar mill at Indore), and a large jute mill and Iron Mill at calcutta.

Direction: Mark the Option Which Is Most Suitable:
Assertion : In the twentieth century, handloom cloth production expanded steadily.
Reason : This was partly because of technological changes,
  • a)
    If both assertion and reason are true and reason is the correct explanation of assertion.
  • b)
    If both assertion and reason are true but reason is not the correct explanation of assertion.
  • c)
    If assertion is true but reason is false.
  • d)
    If both assertion and reason are false.
Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

Deepa nambiar answered
Assertion: In the twentieth century, handloom cloth production expanded steadily.

Reason: This was partly because of technological changes.

The correct option is A) If both assertion and reason are true and reason is the correct explanation of assertion.

Explanation:

Expansion of Handloom Cloth Production:
During the twentieth century, handloom cloth production experienced significant expansion. This expansion can be attributed to various factors, one of which is technological changes.

Technological Changes:
Technological advancements played a crucial role in the expansion of handloom cloth production. These changes made the production process more efficient, thereby increasing the output and meeting the growing demand for handloom cloth.

Reason as the Correct Explanation:
The reason provided in the assertion is a correct explanation for the expansion of handloom cloth production. The introduction of new technologies and machinery enhanced the productivity and efficiency of handloom weaving, leading to increased production.

Impact of Technological Changes:
1. Increased Efficiency: Technological changes, such as the introduction of power looms, improved the speed and efficiency of the weaving process. This allowed weavers to produce a larger quantity of cloth in a shorter period.
2. Enhanced Quality: New technologies enabled weavers to create intricate designs and patterns, resulting in higher-quality handloom cloth. This attracted more customers and contributed to the expansion of production.
3. Cost Reduction: Technological advancements also helped in reducing the production costs. This made handloom cloth more affordable and accessible to a wider population, leading to increased demand and production.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, the expansion of handloom cloth production in the twentieth century can be attributed to technological changes. These changes improved the efficiency, quality, and affordability of handloom cloth, leading to an increase in production. Therefore, option A is the correct answer as both the assertion and reason are true, and the reason is the correct explanation for the assertion.

Direction: Mark the Option Which Is Most Suitable:
Assertion : Like the images of gods and goddesses, figures of important personages like emperors and nawabs adorned advertisements and calendars.
Reason : This was done to show the pomp and glory of the nation.
  • a)
    If both assertion and reason are true and reason is the correct explanation of assertion.
  • b)
    If both assertion and reason are true but reason is not the correct explanation of assertion.
  • c)
    If assertion is true but reason is false.
  • d)
    If both assertion and reason are false.
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

Swara Chopra answered
Assertion: Like the images of gods and goddesses, figures of important personages like emperors and nawabs adorned advertisements and calendars.

Reason: This was done to show the pomp and glory of the nation.

Explanation:

This question addresses the practice of using images of important personages, such as emperors and nawabs, in advertisements and calendars. Let us analyze the assertion and reason individually to determine their validity and the relationship between them.

1. Assertion: Like the images of gods and goddesses, figures of important personages like emperors and nawabs adorned advertisements and calendars.

The assertion states that figures of important personages, similar to gods and goddesses, were used in advertisements and calendars. This assertion can be considered true, as historical evidence supports the fact that images of emperors and nawabs were indeed used extensively in advertisements and calendars during certain periods. These figures were often depicted in a larger-than-life manner to convey a sense of grandeur and importance.

2. Reason: This was done to show the pomp and glory of the nation.

The reason provided is that the use of these figures in advertisements and calendars aimed to showcase the pomp and glory of the nation. This reason seems plausible, as the inclusion of images of emperors and nawabs in such contexts would likely serve to highlight the power, wealth, and cultural significance of the ruling class. By associating the nation with these influential figures, the advertisements and calendars sought to create a sense of national pride and admiration.

Now, let us assess the relationship between the assertion and reason:

The reason given in the statement provides a logical explanation for the assertion. The use of figures of emperors and nawabs in advertisements and calendars can indeed be understood as an attempt to showcase the pomp and glory of the nation. By featuring these important personages, the advertisements and calendars aimed to convey a sense of grandeur and national pride.

Therefore, the correct answer is option 'C': If the assertion is true but the reason is false. In this case, the assertion is true, as historical evidence supports the use of such images in advertisements and calendars. However, while the reason is plausible, it cannot be definitively proven as the sole motivation behind this practice.

Which one of the following was the job of Gomastha?
  • a)
    Supervise weavers
  • b)
    Collect supplies
  • c)
    Examine the quality of the cloth
  • d)
    All the above
Correct answer is option 'D'. Can you explain this answer?

Deepanshu jha answered
- Supervise weavers: The job of a Gomastha was to supervise the weavers in a particular area or region. They were responsible for ensuring that the weavers followed the instructions provided to them and that the weaving process was carried out efficiently and effectively.
- Collect supplies: Another task of a Gomastha was to collect the necessary supplies for the weavers, such as raw materials like yarn and dyes. They were in charge of making sure that the weavers had everything they needed to carry out their work.
- Examine the quality of the cloth: Gomasthas were also responsible for examining the quality of the cloth produced by the weavers. They had to ensure that the finished products met the required standards in terms of texture, color, and overall quality.
- All the above: Therefore, the job of a Gomastha included supervising weavers, collecting supplies, and examining the quality of the cloth. They played a crucial role in the production process of textiles and were essential for maintaining the quality and efficiency of the weaving industry.

The paid servants of the East India Company was known as
  • a)
    Seth
  • b)
    Mamlatdar
  • c)
    Gomastha
  • d)
    Lambardar
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

Introduction:
The paid servants of the East India Company were known as Gomasthas. These individuals played a crucial role in the operations and administration of the Company's business in India during the colonial era. They were responsible for various tasks and acted as intermediaries between the Company and the local population.

Explanation:
1. Role of Gomasthas:
Gomasthas were appointed by the East India Company to oversee and manage their trading activities in India. They were primarily responsible for the following tasks:

- Supervising the Company's factories, warehouses, and trading posts.
- Purchasing goods from local merchants and suppliers.
- Ensuring the quality and quantity of goods procured.
- Negotiating prices and trade agreements with local traders.
- Collecting revenue and taxes on behalf of the Company.
- Maintaining records and accounts of transactions.
- Resolving disputes and conflicts between the Company and local traders.

2. Selection and Training:
The East India Company carefully selected individuals for the role of Gomasthas. They were usually chosen from among the Company's employees or recruited locally based on their language skills, knowledge of local customs, and ability to negotiate effectively. These individuals were then trained in the Company's policies, procedures, and business practices.

3. Powers and Authority:
Gomasthas held significant powers and authority in the areas where they were stationed. They acted as the Company's representatives and had the power to enforce its policies and regulations. They could inspect, seize, and confiscate goods if they suspected any wrongdoing or violation of Company rules. Gomasthas also had the authority to resolve disputes and levy fines or penalties on defaulting traders.

4. Criticisms and Abuses:
While Gomasthas played an important role in the Company's operations, their powers often led to abuses and corruption. Some Gomasthas exploited their authority by engaging in unfair trade practices, accepting bribes, and imposing excessive taxes on local traders. These actions created resentment among the local population and contributed to the growing opposition to the Company's rule in India.

Conclusion:
The paid servants of the East India Company known as Gomasthas played a crucial role in managing and overseeing the Company's trade and business activities in India. While they held significant powers and authority, their actions were not always ethical, leading to criticism and opposition. The role of the Gomasthas is an important aspect of understanding the history and impact of the East India Company in India during the colonial period.

18th Century India witnessed the decline of port town?
  • a)
    Surat
  • b)
    Bombay
  • c)
    Calcutta
  • d)
    Madras
Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

Naina khanna answered


Decline of Port Town in 18th Century India

Reasons for the decline of Surat:
- Surat, once a flourishing port town and a major trading center, started to decline in the 18th century due to various reasons.
- The shifting of trade routes and the emergence of new port towns like Bombay and Calcutta resulted in a decline in Surat's importance as a trading hub.
- The repeated plundering of the town by foreign invaders, such as the Dutch and the Marathas, led to a loss of wealth and resources, further contributing to its decline.
- The silting of the Tapti River, which served as an important waterway for trade, also affected Surat's ability to attract traders and maintain its status as a prominent port town.

Impact of Surat's decline:
- The decline of Surat had significant economic implications for the region as many traders and merchants shifted their base to other port towns, leading to a loss of revenue and livelihood for the local population.
- The decline of Surat also had social and cultural repercussions as the town's cosmopolitan culture and diverse population started to disintegrate with the loss of trade and commerce.

In conclusion, the decline of Surat in the 18th century was a result of various factors such as shifting trade routes, foreign invasions, and natural changes in the waterways. This decline not only affected the economic prosperity of the town but also had social and cultural impacts on its population.

Match the following items given in Column A with those in Column B:
  • a)
    (i)-(c), (ii)-(d), (iii)-(a), (iv)-(b)
  • b)
    (i)-(a), (ii)-(d), (iii)-(a), (iv)-(b)
  • c)
    (i)-(b), (ii)-(d), (iii)-(a), (iv)-(b)
  • d)
    (i)-(d), (ii)-(d), (iii)-(a), (iv)-(b)
Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

Avinash Patel answered
(i) Iron and Steel Plant: The founder of the Tata Iron & Steel Company - now called Tata Steel - never lived to see it incorporated. TISCO was born in 1907 - three years after Jamsetji Nusserwanji Tata died. Tata had been pursuing the dream of setting up a steel plant in India since at least 1882.
(ii) Bengali Industrialist: Dwarkanath Tagore (1794–1846), one of the first Indian industrialists to form an enterprise with British partners and entrepreneurs, was the founder of the Jorasanko branch of the Tagore family.
(iii) Marwari Businessman: Seth Hukumchand, a Marwari businessman was the one to set up the first Indian jute mill in Calcutta in 1917.
(iv) Parsi Industrialist: Sir Dinshaw Maneckji Petit, 1st Baronet was a Parsi entrepreneur and founder of the first textile mills in India, as well as a great philanthropist.

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