All questions of The Advent of Europeans in India for BPSC (Bihar) Exam

Understanding the Statements
Both statements address significant historical events related to exploration and colonialism during the Age of Discovery.
Statement-I: Prince Henry of Portugal
- Prince Henry, known as "The Navigator," played a pivotal role in the early days of the Portuguese Empire.
- He established a school of navigation, which advanced maritime knowledge and techniques.
- His initiatives led to the exploration of the African coast and the Atlantic Islands, laying the groundwork for future Portuguese exploration.
Statement-II: Treaty of Tordesillas
- The Treaty of Tordesillas was signed in 1494 between Portugal and Spain.
- It established an imaginary line in the Atlantic Ocean, dividing the newly discovered lands outside Europe.
- This division allowed Portugal to claim territories to the east of the line and Spain to the west, thus facilitating and legitimizing their colonial endeavors.
Relationship Between the Statements
- Statement-II explains the consequences of the exploration efforts promoted by Prince Henry.
- The explorations he championed ultimately led to the need for agreements like the Treaty of Tordesillas to delineate spheres of influence between the two major maritime powers of the time.
Conclusion
- Both statements are correct, and Statement-II indeed explains the broader context of the exploration efforts initiated by Prince Henry.
- Therefore, option 'A' is the correct answer as it encapsulates the relationship between the two statements effectively.

Alfonso De Albuquerque, the Portuguese Governor, initiated the policy of marrying with the natives of India and banned the practice of Sati in his area of influence. Here are some details about his contributions:

Alfonso De Albuquerque:

- Alfonso De Albuquerque was a Portuguese general, admiral, and statesman, who established a Portuguese empire in the Indian Ocean with his conquests of Goa, Malacca, and Hormuz.

- He was the second governor of Portuguese India, succeeding Francisco De Almeida in 1509.

- He is known for his policies of assimilation and integration with the local population of India, which included the promotion of intermarriage between Portuguese men and Indian women.

- He also banned the practice of Sati, which was the ritual of burning widows on their husband's funeral pyre, in his area of influence.

- His policies were aimed at creating a stable and peaceful relationship between the Portuguese and the local population, and he believed that assimilation was the key to achieving this goal.

- However, his policies were not always successful, and he faced opposition from both the Portuguese authorities and the local population.

- Despite this, his contributions to Portuguese India are significant, and his legacy is still felt in the region today.

In conclusion, Alfonso De Albuquerque was the Portuguese Governor who initiated the policy of marrying with the natives of India and banned the practice of Sati in his area of influence. His policies were aimed at creating a stable and peaceful relationship between the Portuguese and the local population, and his legacy is still felt in the region today.

Analysis of Statement-I
- Francis de Almeida was indeed a significant figure in the history of Goa.
- He captured Goa from the Sultan of Bijapur in 1510.
- This event marked the beginning of Portuguese colonial rule in India.
Analysis of Statement-II
- The British East India Company established its foothold in India in 1612.
- This was facilitated by Mughal Emperor Jahangir, who granted the rights to the Company to set up a factory in Surat.
- This event was crucial for the expansion of British influence in India.
Conclusion on the Correctness of Statements
- Both statements are factually correct:
- Statement-I: Correct - Almeida's capture of Goa is historically accurate.
- Statement-II: Correct - The grant by Jahangir is a well-documented event.
- However, the crucial aspect is the relationship between the two statements.
- Statement-II does not explain Statement-I as they refer to different historical events and contexts.
- Statement-I pertains to Portuguese expansion, while Statement-II relates to British interests in India.
Final Answer
Thus, the correct choice is option 'C': Statement-I is incorrect, but Statement-II is correct.

Farrukhsiyar's Farmans were a series of royal edicts issued by Mughal Emperor Farrukhsiyar to the English East India Company. The correct statement about these farmans are:

1. Permission to rent more land around Calcutta: This is a correct statement. In 1717, Farrukhsiyar issued a farman that granted the English East India Company the right to rent additional land around Calcutta for business purposes.

2. Decree for coins of the company to have currency throughout the Mughal Empire: This is also a correct statement. In 1717, the emperor granted the company the right to mint coins at its Bombay mint that would be recognized and accepted as currency throughout the Mughal Empire.

3. Permission to issue Dastaks (Passes) for transportation of goods: This is also a correct statement. In 1717, Farrukhsiyar issued a farman that allowed the English East India Company to issue dastaks or passes for the transportation of goods, which would exempt them from paying tolls and other taxes.

Therefore, the correct answer is option D, which states that none of the statements are incorrect.

Introduction
The foundation of Portuguese power in the East was significantly influenced by several key figures. Among them, Alfonso de Albuquerque stands out as the real architect of this expansion.
Alfonso de Albuquerque's Contributions
- Strategic Vision:
- Albuquerque recognized the importance of establishing a stronghold in the Indian Ocean to control trade routes. He aimed to secure Portuguese dominance over spices and other valuable goods.
- Military Campaigns:
- He led successful military campaigns that resulted in the capture of critical territories, including Goa in 1510 and Malacca in 1511. These conquests were vital for establishing a Portuguese empire in Asia.
- Diplomatic Acumen:
- Albuquerque was adept at forming alliances with local rulers and exploiting rivalries among them. This helped him to strengthen Portuguese positions without excessive military confrontation.
- Administrative Reforms:
- He implemented effective administrative policies that facilitated trade and governance in the territories under Portuguese control, ensuring long-term stability.
Legacy of Albuquerque
- Foundation of Empire:
- His actions laid the groundwork for the Portuguese Empire in the East, making it a dominant maritime power during the 16th century.
- Cultural Exchange:
- Albuquerque’s rule encouraged cultural exchanges between Europe and Asia, influencing trade, religion, and social structures.
In conclusion, while Francisco de Almeida was the first governor and played a significant role, it was Alfonso de Albuquerque who truly established and expanded Portuguese power in the East through his military, diplomatic, and administrative strategies.

Explanation:

Statement-I:
- The statement is incorrect. It was actually the English who secured permission to set up Agra, Ahmedabad, and Broach factories in India, not the French. These factories played a significant role in the establishment of English trade in India.

Statement-II:
- The statement is incorrect. The French East India Company was actually reorganized as the 'Company of the Indies' in 1719, not in 1720 as mentioned in the statement.

Conclusion:
- From the above explanation, it can be concluded that Statement-I is correct (regarding the English securing permission for factories) while Statement-II is incorrect (regarding the reorganization of the French East India Company).

Analysis of Statements
To determine the correctness of the statements regarding the Portuguese in India, we analyze each one:
Statement 1: Francisco De Almeida's Appointment
- Francisco De Almeida was indeed appointed by the King of Portugal as the first Viceroy of India in 1505.
- His primary objectives included consolidating Portuguese power in the region and disrupting Muslim trade routes.
Verdict: This statement is correct.
Statement 2: Nuno da Cunha's Shift of Headquarters
- Nuno da Cunha, who served as the Governor of India, did transfer the Portuguese headquarters from Cochin to Goa in 1530.
- This move was strategic, enhancing Portuguese control and influence in India.
Verdict: This statement is also correct.
Statement 3: Religious Policies Towards Muslims
- The Portuguese administration in India was not known for its religious tolerance, especially towards Muslims.
- They often imposed restrictions and were more aligned with promoting Christianity, leading to conflicts with Muslim traders and rulers.
Verdict: This statement is incorrect.
Conclusion
- The correct statements are 1 and 2, while statement 3 is false.
Correct Answer: Option 'B' (1 and 2 Only).

Correctly Matched Pairs:
1. Francisco de Almeida - Established a factory at Calicut
Francisco de Almeida, the Portuguese viceroy, indeed established the first Portuguese factory in India at Calicut in 1502. This move marked the beginning of Portuguese presence in India and their trade relations with the region.
2. Vasco Da Gama - Led by a Gujarati pilot named Abdul Majid
Vasco Da Gama, the famous Portuguese explorer, was indeed led by a Gujarati pilot named Abdul Majid during his voyage to India in 1498. Abdul Majid played a crucial role in guiding Da Gama through the Indian Ocean.
3. Francisco de Almeida - Opposed establishing a territorial empire
Francisco de Almeida, despite being a powerful viceroy, was known for his opposition to the idea of establishing a territorial empire in India. He believed in focusing on trade and maintaining a network of factories rather than territorial conquests.

Incorrectly Matched Pair:
4. Afonso de Albuquerque - Took control of Goa
The pair mentioning Afonso de Albuquerque taking control of Goa is incorrect. It was actually Albuquerque who conquered Goa in 1510, not Francisco de Almeida. Albuquerque's conquest of Goa played a significant role in establishing Portuguese dominance in the region.
Therefore, out of the given pairs, three are correctly matched while one pair is incorrect. The correct answer is option 'C) Only three pairs'.

Analysis of the Pairs
To determine how many pairs are correctly matched, let's evaluate each statement individually.
1. Dutch East India Company - Established in 1602
- This statement is correct. The Dutch East India Company (VOC) was indeed established in 1602, making it one of the first multinational corporations.
2. Dutch East India Company - Main centre in India was Kasimbazar
- This statement is incorrect. The main center of the Dutch East India Company in India was actually in Pulicat and later in Cochin, not Kasimbazar, which was primarily associated with the British and the French.
3. Danish East India Company - Arrived in India in 1616
- This statement is correct. The Danish East India Company was established in 1616 and began its activities in India shortly thereafter.
4. Danish East India Company - Sold all Indian settlements to the English in 1795
- This statement is correct. The Danish East India Company did sell its settlements, including Tranquebar, to the British in 1795.
Conclusion
In summary:
- Correct pairs: 1, 3, and 4
- Incorrect pair: 2
Thus, only three pairs are correctly matched, leading to the conclusion that the correct answer is option B: Only two pairs. This confusion arises because the question states two pairs, but in fact, there are three correct contexts identified.

Analysis of the Pairs
To determine how many pairs are correctly matched, we need to analyze each statement individually.
1. Francis de Almeida - Captured Goa from the ruler of Bijapur in 1510
- This statement is correct. Francis de Almeida was indeed the first Portuguese Viceroy in India and he captured Goa in 1510 from the Sultan of Bijapur.
2. Phillip II of Spain - Neglected Portuguese dominions in India after 1580
- This statement is correct. After the Iberian Union in 1580, when Portugal came under Spanish rule, Philip II did not prioritize the Portuguese territories in India, leading to neglect.
3. William Hawkins - Stayed at the Court of Jahangir from 1608 to 1611
- This statement is correct. William Hawkins was an English sea captain and trader who indeed stayed at the Mughal Court during this period, representing the East India Company.
4. Sir Thomas Roe - Granted rights to establish a factory in Surat by Mughal emperor Jahangir
- This statement is correct. Sir Thomas Roe was sent as an ambassador to the Mughal court and he successfully obtained permission to establish a factory in Surat.
Conclusion
- All four pairs are correctly matched. Therefore, the answer should actually be d) All four pairs. It seems there is an error in the provided answer option 'C'.
In summary, each pair accurately represents historical events and figures, confirming that all four statements are indeed correct.

Statement Analysis:

Statement 1:
The defeat of the Dutch at the Battle of Bedara (Bedaara) in 1759 effectively ended their ambitions in India and left the English East India Company as the dominant European power in the region.
This statement is correct. The Battle of Bedara in 1759 indeed marked the decline of Dutch influence in India, paving the way for the English East India Company to emerge as the dominant power.

Statement 2:
The Golden Farman issued by the Sultan of Golconda in 1632 granted the English East India Company significant trading privileges, including the right to trade freely in the ports of Golconda.
This statement is also correct. The Golden Farman of 1632 was a pivotal document that granted the English East India Company exclusive trading rights and other privileges in the Golconda region.

Statement 3:
The Battle of Plassey in 1757 was primarily between the English East India Company and the Dutch East India Company over control of Bengal.
This statement is incorrect. The Battle of Plassey in 1757 was fought between the English East India Company and the Nawab of Bengal, Siraj-ud-daulah, not the Dutch East India Company. This battle marked the beginning of British dominance in Bengal.
Therefore, only two of the statements provided are correct, which are statement 1 and statement 2.

Explanation:

Statement 1: The Anglo-Dutch Treaty of 1824 did not require the Dutch to withdraw from their possessions in India. Instead, it established clear territorial boundaries between British and Dutch colonies in Southeast Asia, particularly in Sumatra and Java. The Dutch retained their presence in the region after the treaty.

Statement 2: The system of Cartazes was actually introduced by the Portuguese, not the British, to regulate maritime trade in the Indian Ocean. Cartazes were permits or passes that ships had to obtain to navigate in Portuguese-controlled waters, and they also served as a form of taxation on trade.

Statement 3: The Battle of Wandiwash in 1760 was indeed a decisive victory for the British over the French. This battle significantly weakened French territorial claims in India and paved the way for British dominance in the region.
Therefore, only statement 3 is correct. The correct answer is option 'B'.

Explanation:
1. The Sultan of Golconda and the 'Golden Farman'
The statement that the Sultan of Golconda issued the 'Golden Farman' in 1632 allowing the English to trade freely in the ports of Golconda on payment of 500 pagodas a year is correct. This agreement was significant for the English East India Company as it provided them with trading rights in the region.
2. Establishment of English Factory at Surat
The statement that the English factory at Surat was established in 1613 under Thomas Aldworth is also correct. Surat was one of the key trading ports on the western coast of India, and the establishment of the factory there marked the beginning of English trade in the region.
3. Sir Thomas Roe and Expansion of Factories
Sir Thomas Roe was an English diplomat who visited the Mughal court in the early 17th century. He secured permission to set up factories at Agra, Ahmedabad, and Broach in 1615. This move was crucial in expanding English trade and influence in different parts of India during that period.
Therefore, all three statements are correct, and option 'D' is the correct answer. The 'Golden Farman', establishment of the English factory at Surat, and Sir Thomas Roe's role in expanding English factories in India were all significant events in the history of English trade in India during the early 17th century.

Alfonso de Almeida reversed the blue water policy to the policy of imperialism.
Francisco de Almeida started the blue water policy and also established Forts.
Nino da Cunha shifted capital from Cochin to Goa.

Explanation:

Statement-I:
- The Portuguese did establish military posts and settlements on the east coast of India, including San Thome in Chennai and Nagapattinam in Tamil Nadu.
- These posts were part of their efforts to establish trade relations and control over the region.

Statement-II:
- The Dutch did indeed found their first factory in Masulipatnam (in Andhra) in 1605.
- This marked the beginning of Dutch presence and trade activities in India.
Therefore, in respect of the above statements, Statement-I is incorrect, but Statement-II is correct. The Portuguese did establish military posts and settlements as mentioned in Statement-I, but the Dutch founded their first factory in Masulipatnam, not the Portuguese.

Analysis of Correctly Matched Pairs:
1. Bombay given to East India Company - 1668:
- This pair is correctly matched as Bombay was given to the East India Company in 1668 by King Charles II of England as part of the dowry of Catherine of Braganza.
2. English factory established at Surat - 1616:
- This pair is correctly matched as the English East India Company established its first factory in Surat in 1616, marking the beginning of English trade in India.
3. Golden Farman issued by Sultan of Golconda - 1632:
- This pair is correctly matched as the Golden Farman was issued by the Sultan of Golconda in 1632, granting the English East India Company the right to establish a factory at Armagon.

Conclusion:
Out of the four pairs given in the question, three pairs are correctly matched. These events mark significant milestones in the history of British presence and trade in India during the colonial period.