Important Chapters from NCERT Class 10 History and Summaries | History for UPSC CSE PDF Download

Introduction

For those preparing for the UPSC exams, history is an important subject that helps in understanding significant historical events in both India and the world, which have an impact on today’s society. The history syllabus for UPSC, applicable to both Prelims and Mains (GS Paper I), covers topics like:

• Modern history
• Nationalism
• Global economic changes

The Class 10 NCERT book titled “India and the Contemporary World – II” is a valuable resource for grasping these themes. The following chapters from the book are especially relevant:

• Chapter 1: The Rise of Nationalism in Europe
• Chapter 2: Nationalism in India
• Chapter 3: The Making of Global World
• Chapter 4: The Age of Industrialization

• Chapter 5: Print, Culture and the Modern World

These chapters correspond well with the UPSC’s emphasis on socio-political and economic history.

Why NCERTs are Important for History?

NCERT textbooks, particularly Class 10’s “India and the Contemporary World – II,” are essential for UPSC history preparation due to:

• Clarity and Structure: The textbooks offer a clear narrative style, making historical events easy to comprehend.
• Alignment with UPSC Syllabus: They cover essential modern history topics like nationalism, industrialisation, and globalisation, crucial for both Prelims and Mains exams.
• Factual Accuracy: These books provide reliable and concise information, essential for building a solid understanding of history.
• Comprehensive Coverage: They encompass themes such as political movements, economic changes, and cultural shifts, which are frequently tested in UPSC exams.
• Expert-Recommended: NCERTs are highly regarded for their concise yet thorough content, making them ideal for UPSC aspirants.

Important Chapters of History Class 10th NCERT for UPSC

The following chapters from Class 10 NCERT “India and the Contemporary World – II” are critical for UPSC preparation:

Chapter 1: The Rise of Nationalism in Europe

Important topics to cover:

• French Revolution and its impact (1789).
• Unification of Germany and Italy.
• Role of leaders like Mazzini, Bismarck, and Garibaldi.
• Concepts of nation-state and nationalism.

Chapter 2: Nationalism in India

Important topics to cover:

• Indian National Movement (1915–1947).
• Key events: Non-Cooperation, Civil Disobedience, Quit India.
• Role of Gandhi, Nehru, and other leaders.
• Impact of World War I and II on Indian nationalism.

Chapter 3: The Making of Global World

Important topics to cover:

• Global trade and economy (19th–20th century).
• Impact of colonialism and imperialism.
• World Wars and their economic consequences.
• Bretton Woods institutions (IMF, World Bank).

Chapter 4: The Age of Industrialization

Important topics to cover:

• Industrial Revolution in Europe.
• Impact on India: Deindustrialization, handlooms vs. factories.
• Role of entrepreneurs and workers.
• Growth of factories and urbanization.

Chapter 5: Print, Culture and the Modern World

Important topics to cover:

• Invention of the printing press and its impact.
• Spread of print culture in India.
• Role of newspapers, books, and pamphlets in social reform.
• Print and the growth of nationalism.

Preparation Tips

1. Create Timelines: Map key events (e.g., 1789–1947) for nationalism, industrialization, and global trade.
2. Short Notes: Summarize movements, leaders, and economic changes in bullet points.
3. Revise Often: Review chapters 2–3 times, treating history as a connected narrative.
4. Practice Questions: Solve UPSC past papers (2015– 2025) and mock tests.
5. Link Themes: Connect nationalism, economy, and culture for Mains answers.
6. Supplementary Reading: Refer to NCERTs of Classes 11–12 (e.g., “Themes in World History”) for deeper context.
7. Flashcards: Make cards for key events, leaders, and terms for quick revision.