Mock Test Paper - 3 (History Optional Paper- II): Questions | History Optional for UPSC PDF Download

Time Allowed: Three Hours
Maximum Marks: 250

Instructions:

1. There are EIGHT questions divided into two Sections (A and B), printed in English.
2. Candidates must attempt FIVE questions in all.
3. Question Nos. 1 and 5 are compulsory. Out of the remaining, THREE questions are to be attempted, choosing at least ONE from each Section.
4. Marks for each question/part are indicated against it.
5. Answers must be written in the authorized medium, as specified in the Admission Certificate, and clearly stated on the Question-cum-Answer (QCA) Booklet cover.
6. Adhere to the word limit wherever specified.
7. Attempts will be counted in sequential order. Partially attempted questions will be considered unless struck off. Blank pages/portions must be clearly struck off.

Section-A

Q1. Critically examine the following statements in about 150 words each: (10 × 5 = 50 Marks)
(a) The Permanent Settlement in Bengal created a new property regime with lasting socio-economic impacts. (PYQ)
(b) The Treaty of Amritsar (1809) was significant for its immediate and potential effects on British-Sikh relations. (PYQ)
(c) Colonial famines were a direct result of economic policies, not merely food scarcity. (PYQ)
(d) The Revolt of 1857 was a turning point in shaping Indian responses to British rule.
(e) Western education in colonial India was a double-edged sword, fostering both cultural awakening and colonial control.

Q2.
(a) Discuss the consequences of the Permanent Settlement on Bengal’s agrarian society and economy. (20 Marks)
(b) Examine how the East India Company functioned as an Indian ruler after acquiring Diwani in 1765. (15 Marks)
(c) Analyze the role of revolutionaries in broadening the social base of the Indian freedom struggle. (15 Marks)

Q3.
(a) Evaluate the policies and programs of early nationalists (Moderates) and their success in addressing public aspirations. (20 Marks)
(b) Discuss the differential impact of British rule on Indian society post-1857 Revolt. (15 Marks)
(c) Examine the environmental crisis in post-colonial India through the lens of popular movements. (15 Marks)

Q4.
(a) Analyze whether the Indian National Movement was a multi-class movement representing diverse anti-imperialist interests. (20 Marks)
(b) Discuss India-China relations in the 1950s and 1960s in the context of the McMahon Line dispute. (15 Marks)
(c) Examine the impact of colonial economic policies on Indian artisans and industries. (15 Marks)

Section-B

Q5. Critically examine the following statements in about 150 words each: (10 × 5 = 50 Marks)
(a) Rousseau’s ideas ignited hope, embodying the spirit of the Enlightenment.
(b) Napoleon’s codification of French law was his most enduring achievement.
(c) The Industrial Revolution enriched elites while impoverishing the masses.
(d) The First Reform Act (1832) marked a significant step in Britain’s constitutional development.
(e) Gorbachev’s policies were instrumental in the disintegration of the USSR.

Q6.
(a) Discuss how Fascism emerged as a response to post-World War I political and social challenges. (20 Marks)
(b) Examine the economic and social impacts of the Industrial Revolution on European society. (15 Marks)
(c) Analyze the Vietnamese struggle as one of the 20th century’s longest liberation wars. (15 Marks)

Q7.
(a) Evaluate the role of statesmanship failures in London during the 1760s–1770s in precipitating the American Revolution. (20 Marks)
(b) Discuss the Non-Aligned Movement’s origins and its appeal to smaller nations. (15 Marks)
(c) Examine the post-1945 trajectory of Malaya after Japanese occupation. (15 Marks)

Q8.
(a) Discuss the introduction of apartheid in South Africa and its key features. (20 Marks)
(b) Analyze the extent to which Latin American countries overcame foreign domination. (15 Marks)
(c) Examine Engels’ role in popularizing Marxist ideas compared to Marx. (15 Marks)