Sample Paper: The Mughal Empire - Term-1 Social Science, Class 7
This sample paper is designed to assess your understanding of the Mughal Empire, covering its history, culture, and significance. Below are the sections included in the test along with solutions for better comprehension.

Section A: Multiple Choice Questions
1. Who was the founder of the Mughal Empire?
- a) Akbar
- b) Babur
- c) Shah Jahan
- d) Aurangzeb
*Correct Answer: b) Babur*
2. Which of the following is a famous architectural achievement of the Mughal Empire?
- a) Red Fort
- b) Qutub Minar
- c) Gateway of India
- d) Charminar
*Correct Answer: a) Red Fort*

Section B: Short Answer Questions
1. Explain the significance of Akbar's policy of religious tolerance.
*Solution: Akbar's policy of religious tolerance, known as Sulh-i-Kul, aimed at promoting harmony among different religious communities. He abolished the jizya tax on non-Muslims and engaged in dialogues with leaders of various faiths, fostering a spirit of unity and reducing communal tensions.*
2. Describe the contributions of Shah Jahan to Mughal architecture.
*Solution: Shah Jahan is best known for commissioning the Taj Mahal, a mausoleum for his wife Mumtaz Mahal. His reign saw the construction of several other magnificent structures, including the Red Fort and Jama Masjid, reflecting the grandeur and artistic excellence of Mughal architecture.*

Section C: Long Answer Questions
1. Discuss the impact of the Mughal Empire on Indian culture and society.
*Solution: The Mughal Empire enriched Indian culture through advancements in art, literature, and architecture. The fusion of Persian, Indian, and Islamic styles led to unique artistic expressions, while the patronage of literature fostered the growth of languages like Urdu and Hindi. Additionally, Mughal policies promoted trade and commerce, contributing to economic prosperity.*
2. Analyze the reasons for the decline of the Mughal Empire.
*Solution: The decline of the Mughal Empire can be attributed to several factors, including weak leadership after Aurangzeb, internal strife among nobles, and the rise of regional powers. Additionally, external pressures from European colonial powers further weakened the empire, leading to its eventual disintegration in the 18th century.*
This sample paper serves as a comprehensive review of key concepts related to the Mughal Empire, ensuring students are well-prepared for their assessments.