Important Chapters from NCERT Class 9 History and Summaries | History for UPSC CSE PDF Download

NCERT books from classes 6 to 12 are really important if you want to prepare for the Civil Services Examination (CSE). These books cover all the important topics and help you understand the basic concepts really well. Many questions in the exam come directly from these books, so they're a key part of what you need to study.

For UPSC exams, especially if you're from a commerce or science background, NCERT History books are crucial. History is a big part of the IAS Prelims GS Paper 1 and IAS Mains GS Paper 1. Starting your history preparation with NCERT books is a great idea because it gives you a strong base to build on. This article gives a summary of the important chapters from the Class 9 History NCERT books that you need to focus on for UPSC preparation.

Important Chapters of History Class 9th NCERT for UPSC

NCERT Name: India and the Contemporary World – I

Total No. Of Chapters: 5 Chapters

Important Chapters:

• Chapter 1: The French Revolution
• Chapter 2: Socialism in Europe and the Russian Revolution
• Chapter 3: Nazism and the Rise of Hitler

Let's Start with the summary of chapters one by one

Chapter 1: The French Revolution

Introduction:

The French Revolution of 1789 marks a significant turning point in history, not only for France but for the entire world. Born out of deep-seated economic, social, and political grievances, it was a revolution that sought to dismantle the old order and usher in a new era of liberty, equality, and fraternity. This essay delves into the causes that precipitated the revolution, examines key events such as the storming of the Bastille and the Declaration of the Rights of Man and Citizen, and explores the profound and lasting impacts that reverberate through modern times.

Causes of the French Revolution:

1. Political Causes:

   • Absolute Monarchy: The Bourbon kings ruled with absolute power, disregarding the needs of the common people.
   • Lack of Representation: The Estates-General, which represented the three estates (clergy, nobility, commoners), had an unfair voting system favoring the first two estates.

2. Social Causes:

   • Feudal Society: French society was divided into three estates, with the Third Estate (commoners) bearing the majority of taxes and societal burdens.
   • Inequality: The First and Second Estates (clergy and nobility) enjoyed privileges and exemptions from taxes.

3. Economic Causes:

   • Financial Crisis: Heavy taxation, particularly on the Third Estate, coupled with poor harvests and economic instability, led to widespread poverty and discontent.
   • Debt: France faced financial ruin due to funding wars and extravagance at the royal court.

Events of the French Revolution:

• 1789: Storming of the Bastille marked the beginning of the revolution, symbolizing the people's rejection of royal authority and oppression.
• 1791: Constitutional Monarchy was established, limiting the king’s powers and outlining a constitutional framework.
• 1792: Abolition of Monarchy followed the declaration of war against Prussia and Austria, leading to France becoming a republic.

Key Documents and Ideals:

• Declaration of the Rights of Man and Citizen: Enshrined principles of liberty, equality, and fraternity, asserting the sovereignty of the people.
• Abolition of Feudalism: Freed peasants from feudal obligations and abolished privileges of the nobility.

Impact and Legacy:

• Domestic Impact: The revolution abolished feudal privileges, implemented legal reforms, and promoted secularism.
• International Influence: Inspired revolutions and movements for liberty and equality across Europe and beyond.
• Napoleon Bonaparte: Emerged as a military leader, initially seen as a liberator but later established authoritarian rule.

Conclusion:

The French Revolution remains a landmark event that challenged the traditional power structures, laid the groundwork for modern democratic ideals, and influenced global political thought. Despite its complexities and internal conflicts, its ideals continue to resonate in the quest for social justice and individual rights worldwide.

Chapter 2: Socialism in Europe and the Russian Revolution

Chapter 3: Nazism and the Rise of Hitler

Introduction

In 1945, eleven-year-old Helmuth faced the aftermath of his father's decisions during World War II, highlighting the ethical complexities and justice issues surrounding Germany's involvement in Nazi crimes.

Main Points

1. Birth of The Weimar Republic:

   • After World War I (1914-1918), Germany became a democracy called the Weimar Republic in 1919.
   • They adopted a democratic constitution and had a federal system with multiple states.
   • But the Treaty of Versailles in 1919 imposed harsh penalties on Germany, causing resentment.

2. Political Turmoil and Economic Crisis:

   • After World War I, Germany faced economic problems and political unrest.
   • Extremist groups like the Nazis and Communists gained support during this instability.
   • In 1923, Germany experienced hyperinflation, where money lost its value very quickly, causing hardship.

3. Rise of Adolf Hitler:

   • Hitler rose to power in the 1930s by promising to fix Germany's economy and restore its pride.
   • He became Chancellor in 1933 and used his position to take complete control through the Enabling Act.
   • This marked the end of democracy in Germany as Hitler centralized power.

4. The Nazi Beliefs:

   • Nazis believed in a racial hierarchy where Aryans were considered superior.
   • They persecuted Jews and other minorities, aiming for a racially pure society.
   • Hitler also wanted to expand German territory in Eastern Europe, known as Lebensraum.

5. Youth in Nazi Germany:

   • Nazi education focused on indoctrinating youth with Nazi ideology.
   • Boys were taught to be tough and aggressive, while girls were taught to be mothers of Aryan children.
   • Youth organizations promoted militarism and hatred towards Jews and other groups considered "undesirable."

6. Propaganda and Control:

   • Nazis used propaganda to control information and manipulate public opinion.
   • They justified their actions with euphemisms like "final solution" for the Holocaust.
   • Media, rallies, and posters were used extensively to spread Nazi ideals.

7. Impact on Ordinary People:

   • Many ordinary Germans accepted Nazi ideas and participated in or tolerated atrocities.
   • Some individuals resisted, but many remained silent, allowing Nazi crimes to continue.
   • After WWII, Germany confronted its past, while Jews sought justice for Holocaust victims.

Conclusion

The history of Nazi Germany reveals a period of extreme ideology, economic hardship, and the tragic consequences of unchecked power. Hitler's rise to power and Nazi policies show the dangers of authoritarianism and the importance of defending democracy. Understanding this history helps prevent similar tragedies in the future.