Class 7 Science Question Answers - Where, When and How

Short Answer Questions

Q1: What are the three main periods into which history is divided?
Ans: The three main periods of history are ancient, medieval, and modern.

Q2: How is the division of history periods decided?
Ans: History periods are divided based on changes in society, politics, economy, and ideas.

Q3: What is the duration of the medieval period in India?
Ans: The medieval period in India roughly extended from about 700 to 1750 CE.

Q4: Name the two subdivisions of the medieval period in India.
Ans: The two subdivisions of the medieval period are the early medieval period (c. 700-1200 CE) and the late medieval period (c. 1200-1750 CE).

Q5: What is periodization, and why is it important in history?
Ans: Periodization is dividing history into different time periods. It's important because it helps us understand how societies and ideas change over time.

Q6: What were some names used for India in ancient times?
Ans: In ancient times, India was called Bharatavarsha, Jambudvipa, Aryavarta, Sapta Sindhu, and Indoi.

Q7: What is the meaning of 'Hindustan' and how did it change over time?
Ans: 'Hindustan' originally meant the region between the Indus and Brahmaputra rivers, but it later came to represent much of modern India.

Q8: How did India's current name come about?
Ans: India's current name is derived from the river Indus.

Q9: Why is it important to know the different names for India?
Ans: It's important to understand how the name 'India' and its meanings evolved over time and what regions they referred to.

Q10: Which term was popular during the medieval period, and what did it signify?
Ans: 'Hindustan' was popular during the medieval period and referred to the region between the Indus and Brahmaputra rivers.

Long Answer Questions

Q1: What are the two main types of sources used by historians to study the past?
Ans: Historians use archaeological sources (like monuments and inscriptions) and literary sources (like court chronicles and biographies).

Q2: How do archaeologists help historians understand history?
Ans: Archaeologists discover and study physical artifacts and monuments, providing valuable insights into the past.

Q3: What are literary sources, and how do they contribute to historical research?
Ans: Literary sources are written documents such as court chronicles, biographies, and foreign travelers' accounts. They offer firsthand accounts and descriptions of historical events.

Q4: How do court chronicles help historians in their research?
Ans: Court chronicles are official records of rulers' activities and decisions, providing detailed information about the time they cover.

Q5: Why is it essential for historians to use multiple sources when researching history?
Ans: Using multiple sources helps ensure a more comprehensive and accurate understanding of historical events and periods.

Q6: Describe the significant political developments during the medieval period in India.
Ans: The medieval period saw the rise of regional kingdoms, the prominence of Rajputs, the establishment of the Delhi Sultanate, and the Mughal Empire. Rulers also granted land to nobles in exchange for support.

Q7: How did the medieval period impact society in terms of new castes and tribal groups?
Ans: The period witnessed the emergence of new castes, the rise of tribal groups with distinct identities and customs, and a clear distinction between rural and urban areas.

Q8: What were the major economic trends during the medieval period in India?
Ans: Economic trends included the flourishing of trade and commerce and the introduction of systematic land revenue assessment.

Q9: How did the medieval period contribute to the revival of Hinduism?
Ans: The period saw a revival of Hinduism, with various developments in art, literature, and religious practices.

Q10: Explain the significance of religious reforms like the Bhakti and Sufi movements during the medieval period.
Ans: These movements emphasized a personal connection with the divine and promoted religious tolerance, leading to significant changes in religious practices and social interactions.